Tioga RoadApril 25, 2024 The roads crew has plowed 17 miles easterly from the Crane Flat gate and is currently working west of Yosemite Creek. Within the 17 miles, avalanche hazard is still present at South Fork Tuolumne River. Snow has been somewhat soft—not nearly as icy as last year—and things are melting out. The avalanche team made it to Olmsted Point on Tuesday and things are beginning to melt at Olmsted Point, although avalanche hazard remains present at Olmsted Point and other avalanche zones. Cooler temps and chance of light showers or snow is forecast for this weekend, and warmer temperatures next week. Facilities management employees have not been able to access Tuolumne Meadows to conduct assessments and begin preparing utilities and other visitor services for use. Tioga Road is typically open to vehicles from late May or June until sometime in November. Plowing typically begins around April 15. In some years, Tioga Road opens to cycling one or more days before opening to vehicles. If this occurs in 2024, we'll provide that information here. Glacier Point RoadApril 25, 2024 Crews have plowed the length of Glacier Point Road and are working on snow removal from parking lots, the campground, paved trails at Glacier and Washburn Points, and in front of buildings. There is no estimated opening date for Glacier Point Road. Glacier Point Road is typically open to vehicles from sometime in May until sometime in November. Plowing typically begins around April 15. In some years, Glacier Point Road opens to cycling one or more days before opening to vehicles. If this occurs in 2024, we'll provide that information here. Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Why does it take so long to open the roads?These are some common causes for slow progress of Tioga Road plowing:
Even after plowing is complete, trash collection, functioning restrooms, and adequate staffing must be in place to prevent harm to park resources. For Tioga Road, once plows reach Tioga Pass, just one lane is plowed. Additional work is still required before the road can open: Crews plow to the full width of Tioga Road and roads leading to critical infrastructure. During this time, several avalanche zones typically remain active. Crews then shovel out infrastructure and begin the process of turning on drinking water and sewer systems. Meanwhile, other crews remove trees in danger of falling on the road and in developed areas, clear culverts on side roads, and replace signs. Crews then work on setting up or de-winterizing buildings. Plowing and culvert clearing continues, and crews clear ditches and fill potholes.Just prior to opening, staff set up operations at the entrance station, wilderness/visitor center, and move into housing. Will I be able to ride a bicycle on the Tioga or Glacier Point Roads before they open to cars?In some years, these roads may be open during limited periods to bicycles prior to opening to cars. Any updates regarding pre-opening access on these roads will appear on this webpage. Unless otherwise posted here, both roads are closed to cyclists if they are closed to vehicles.
What does it take to reopen Tioga Road?Plowing is just the beginning! Plowing crews must safely navigate through multiple avalanche zones. In addition to several feet of snow, downed trees and rockfall often need to be cleared from the road. Park facilities and infrastructure may require repairs after a heavy winter. For the safety of staff and visitors, and for the protection of Yosemite's high country, services such as radio, water, restrooms, and trash must be in place before the road opens. We're not just opening a road—we're essentially opening a park! Before Plowing BeginsTioga Road is closed to vehicles for the winter but open to skiers and snowshoers. The road is treated as wilderness during this time.
Plowing 45.5 miles from Crane Flat to Tioga PassPlowing begins on or around April 15.
After snowplows “punch through,” even more work must be completed before the road opens!Completing this checklist before opening the road to the public ensures the safety of staff and visitors and the protection of high-country resources.
Phase 1: Access Critical Facilities
Phase 2: Set Up Essential Services
Phase 3: Final Preparation
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Last updated: April 25, 2024