A damaged restroom facility at Yosemite National Park | NPS Photo

Yosemite National Park has announced that there seasonal openings to facilities throughout the park will be delayed due to the exceptionally heavy snowpack and the resulting extensive damage to many park facilities.

Yosemite experienced significant snowfall over the winter season, and the March 1 snow survey showed that both the Merced and Tuolumne River drainages are measuring at approximately 143 percent of normal. Several significant storm systems in January and February produced high levels of snow, which resulted in temporary road closures, rock and debris slides, and falling trees. Extensive damage has been caused by trees falling onto campground restrooms, campsites, roadways, parking lots, and trails. In many places, utilities have been compromised, and cabins have been damaged or destroyed.

The park will begin plowing the Glacier Point and Tioga Roads in April, but neither road is anticipated to be open before Memorial Day. Thee Half Dome cables are expected to be delayed as well, along with the Mariposa Grove Visitor Shuttle, and vehicular access to the Mariposa Grove parking areas.

As spring temperatures begin to warm, the park service expects significant snowmelt resulting in higher levels of water in river and streams. This cold and swift-moving water poses a potential hazard to park visitors. Rangers want to remind visitors to take special precautions around water, especially around stream-crossings.

For the latest updates on park programs and facilities, visit www.nps.gov/yose. Facilities operated by Yosemite Hospitality, the park’s primary Concessioner, are also expected to open later than usual. For the latest information on concession-operated programs and facilities, visit https://www.travelyosemite.com/. For updated 24-hour road and weather conditions for Yosemite National Park, call 209-372-0200 and press 1.