Backcountry Notices

Summer is here and so are afternoon thunderstorms. Avoid high and exposed areas late in the afternoon if there are significant clouds in the sky. Thunderstorms can form rapidly, in the manner of a few short hours or less, so stay alert and scan the sky regularly. Be prepared to turn around and evacuate to a lower better protected area if a thunderstorm does develop nearby.

Bears are active in Yosemite’s wilderness. There is high bear activity in the Glen Aulin and the Little Yosemite Valley/Sunrise Creek area. Please remember to store all your food and scented items in bear canisters or food storage lockers to protect the wildlife. Whenever food or scented items are out, please keep them within arms reach, even while day hiking.

If a bear approaches your camp, act immediately to scare it away. Maintain a safe distance while making as much noise as possible. Throw small stones or pines cones toward the bear, being careful not to strike the bear on the head. If the bear returns, repeat. Do not attempt to retrieve food or gear from a bear until abandons the items.