Yosemite National Park is set to reopen its eastern entrance just in time for Memorial Day weekend. Officials announced that Tioga Road, a scenic part of Highway 120, will welcome back drivers starting at 8 a.m. on Monday. This road has been closed since November due to winter weather conditions, including ice and snow.
Tioga Road typically shuts down each year from November until late May or early June. This closure spans 45 miles, from the Tuolumne Grove near Crane Flat to the Tioga Pass Entrance Station. The road’s reopening this year comes about two weeks earlier than last year and a month earlier than the previous year, which is encouraging news for visitors eager to explore the park.
Preparing the road for reopening is no small task. Crews have spent weeks clearing avalanche zones, removing fallen trees and rocks, and getting campgrounds and facilities ready for visitors. This year, however, the park service will not provide early access to cyclists on Tioga Road, a decision that has sparked some disappointment among biking enthusiasts.
As Memorial Day approaches, park officials are anticipating a busy weekend. Visitors planning to enter Yosemite between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. will need a reservation and should prepare for longer wait times. This requirement will also apply to those visiting between June 15 and August 15, as well as during Labor Day weekend.
Travelers using Tioga Road should be aware that services along the route may be limited. It’s advised to bring sufficient food and water and use food lockers if venturing away from vehicles.
Additionally, Yosemite may face staffing shortages this summer due to budget cuts at the National Park Service. Last year, the park was already operating with a 30% staffing deficit. Visitors are encouraged to be patient and kind to the staff, who are working hard to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Yosemite’s acting superintendent, Ray McPadden, expressed excitement about welcoming visitors over the holiday. He acknowledged the hard work of the park team in preparing for the season and wished everyone a safe and enjoyable time in the park.