Community Updates As Of April 24

The construct Yosemite is working under in terms of re-opening, is a multi-tiered program: guidelines from the White House, guidelines from the state of California, guidelines from the local surrounding counties and park partners. The park will have a gradual phased re-opening plan so as not to overwhelm the community, and so as to open in a way that is safe.

NPS seasonal work-force hiring is on hold until May 24. The only NPS seasonals arriving right now are those critical to life, health, and safety.

The community continues to stay very healthy in this region, with no documented COVID cases in the county. However, CA is the fifth most infected state in the nation, and COVID is still on the rise in many places. Please don't become complacent.Take care of yourselves, think about keeping yourself and our community healthy. Please don’t put first responders at risk unnecessarily.

Incident Command - The Incident Management Team remains prepared for any COVID cases that come, and continues planning for eventual re-opening.

Water safety is particularly important now. The river is going up significantly, so please use extra caution in this area. For Yosemite Valley, the river from Clark’s Bridge to Stoneman Bridge is currently closed due to water levels. The entire river may be closed to vessels by next Wednesday as the water level continues to rise.

The Mist Trail has opened. If you are out for a hike, please be super cautious. Trails have not been cleared of hazards like downed trees. Please limit your activity to less risk than normal, to help avoid calling on EMS and rescue care.

The IMT is getting continued questions for where people can recreate. You can recreate where you live. If you live in Yosemite Valley, you can recreate there. If you live in Yosemite West, that’s where you can recreate. If you live in El Portal, you can recreate in El Portal. Etc. Reiterating that only residents and people working can enter the park.