Your Virtual Guide to Adventure Outdoors
Your Virtual Guide to Adventure
Outdoors
California
Maps &
Trails
Death Valley-Furnace Creek Virtual Adventure
(Framed)
Death Valley-Furnace
Creek Virtual Adventure (Non-framed)
(Non-framed)
Northern California Coastal Gems
Diving into
Point Reyes National Seashore
Life Along The Coastal Regions
Sequoia & Kings National
Parks Info. Update
Yosemite's Falls Facts
Yosemite National Park Facts
John Muir National Historic Site
Northern California Coastal Gems
Some 20 miles North of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge, I discovered a California I didn’t know existed. The Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1) meandered past pumpkin patches, Christmas tree farms, grazing horses and towns right out of the 1950s. Continuing on, I found ancient redwood forests, rugged coastlines, picturesque vineyards and charming country inns.
OCCIDENTAL
My first stop was Occidental, a lovely town nestled in a redwood forest near the Russian River. A former lumber and railroad center, the town is famous for its family-style Italian restaurants.Travelers along the highway can whale-watch and sportfish at Bodega Bay, check out wineries along the Russian River Wine Road, go antiquing in Sebastopol, visit the Jack London State Historic Park and hike at Armstrong Redwoods State Reserve.
One of the most unusual and delightful surprises was the Osmosis Enzyme Bath and Massage in nearby Freestone, where you can be buried up to your neck in cedar fiber, rice bran and 600 enzymes. This mixture generates heat biologically through fermentation. Owner Michael Stusser discovered the baths while studying in Japan and brought the concept back to the United States. A 75-minute Swedish/Esalen massage followed.
ELK
One of those blink-your-eyes-and-you-miss-it towns, Elk is perched high on a cliff overlooking a mile of picturesque coastline along Route 1. 20 miles south of Mendocino. Migrating whales can be spotted off the coast in December when they head south and in the early spring when they head north with their calves,A century ago, the town had a bustling port a thriving lumber industry and a population of 2,000. Now Elk has 200 people, six bed and-breakfasts, a market, post office, pub and visitor center.
You can make arrangements for horseback rides, whale-watching boat trips or a picnic lunch. Fifteen wineries are located within a 30-minute drive.
MENDOCINO
This picturesque bluff-top village is surrounded on three sides by rugged coastline. The town's architecture reflects the roots of the town's early settlers who came from New England. The whole town is on the Register of Historic Places.Mendocino has one of the prettiest main streets in America-every shop in the four block area has an ocean view. Of special note are the Book Loft, with a good selection of books about the area; Mendocino Art Center Showcase Gallery, featuring the work of local artists and crafters; Mendocino Chocolate Co., famous for its handmade truffles; and the Fetzer Vineyards Tasting room. Don’t forget about Mendocino Brewery while your tasting your way through town. It’s right off of Hwy. 101, (a blink and you’ll be past it). The address for the pub is 13351 Hwy. 101,(Hopland), with a new brewery built Ukiah. Great brew and grub! Live music too.
Mendocino's charms haven’t been lost on the movie industry. Beginning in the silent film era, more than 50 films have been shot here, including six that have received various Academy Awards. Some of the Oscar winners are Johnny Belinda (1948), East of Eden (1955) and The Summer of '42 (1971).
The Ford House Museum and State Parks Visitor Center features exhibits on the history of the city and programs about the natural environment of the area. Visitors can rent a tape and player for a self-guided historical walking tour. Or just get out and explore on your own!
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, one of only three in the United States situated on an ocean, has 47 acres of themed garden "rooms" of perennials, rhododendrons (the region's signature plant), heathers, ivies, heritage roses, dahlias and more.
California Western Railroad's "Skunk Train" dates back to 1885, when it hauled giant redwoods to coastal sawmills. Now it offers full-day and half-day scenic trips through the redwood forest out of nearby Fort Bragg. Full-day tour: adults, $26; children, $10. Half-day tour: adults, $21; children, $10.
The area contains unique elements of biological and historical interest in a spectacularly scenic panorama of thunderous ocean breakers, open grasslands, bushy hillsides and forested ridges. Native land mammals number about 37 species and marine mammals this total by another dozen species. The biological diversity stems from a favorable location in the middle of California and the natural occurrence of many distinct habitats. Nearly 20% of the State's flowering plant species are represented on the peninsula and over 45% of the bird species in North America have been sighted. The Point Reyes National Seashore was established by President John F. Kennedy on September 13,1962.
VISITATION:
2.6 million annually. Peaks are from May to August and again in January. Winter visitation is primarily centered on viewing the annual gray whale migration along the California coastline.
LOCATION:
Point Reyes Station, CAADDRESS:
Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956-9799TELEPHONE:
(415)663-1092 or fax (415)663-8132OPERATING HOURS, SEASONS:
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset throughout the year. Visitor center hours are as follows: Bear Valley Visitor Center, weekdays, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., weekends and holidays 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Lighthouse Visitor Center, Thursday
through Monday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays; Ken Patrick Visitor Center, weekends and holidays, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. All visitor centers are closed December 25.
CLIMATE,RECOMMENDED CLOTHING:
Weather at Point Reyes varies not only from day to day but from hour to hour. From February through July, mild weather carpets the land with a host of brilliantly colored wildflowers. Summer is the time when fog can blanket the coastal areas while the inland valleys remain warm. Fall and winter provide opportunities for viewing migratory gray whales as the fogs of summer retreat and clear skies can prevail. Dress in layers while visiting the seashore since you may begin a hike in 75
degree sunshine and finish it along the coast where cooler temperatures (50 to 60 degrees) and ocean breezes can change quickly.
DIRECTIONS:
State highway 1 provides direct access from the north and the south. It is a scenic, winding road. U.S. 101, further east, is a freeway. East-west roads, such as Sir Francis Drake Highway, connect these two highways. Sir Francis Drake Highway begins off Interstate 580 crossing the Richmond Bridge. You may also access Sir Francis Drake Highway where it crosses Interstate 101 in the town of Greenbrae.
TRANSPORTATION:
To Park: Golden Gate Transit is the only public transportation available from the San Francisco area. For schedule and fare information: (415) 923-2000. In Park: personal vehicle or bicycle.
FEES, COSTS, RATES:
No entrance fees. Donations accepted at each of the three visitor centers.
FACILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES:
Visitor Center/Exhibits:
Three visitor centers highlighting the diversity of the park are available. The Bear Valley Visitor Center, located at park headquarters near Olema, is a barn-like structure that contains 2,500 square feet of exhibits and dioramas. All of the major ecosystems are represented along with cultural history of the area. An auditorium plays an introductory film or slide presentation on request. Backcountry campground permits are issued from the center. Hours are weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and weekends and holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is closed December 25th. The Ken Patrick Visitor Center, located at Drakes Beach, houses a 250 gallon salt water aquarium, a 16 foot minke whale skeleton, five to nine million year old whale fossils, a cross section of a 16th Century cargo vessel, an interactive touch screen computer, sales area and much more. Hours are weekends and holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is closed December 25th. The Lighthouse Visitor Center, located at the most westerly point of the Point Reyes peninsula, gives the visitor information on the lighthouse and lifesaving services performed over the 125 years of its use as well as natural history information on whales, seals and wildflowers. Hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Thursday through Monday. It is closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and December 25th.
Trails, Roads:
Over 140 miles of hiking trails allow the visitor to explore Point Reyes and all its splendor. Some of the trails allow bicycles, although they are not allowed in the designated wilderness; pick up a free hiking trail map that differentiates hiking and biking trails. Horses are allowed on most trails and beaches but some restrictions exist. Pets are not allowed on trails at Point Reyes. They may visit North and South Beaches, Kehoe Beach, and Palomarin Beach, but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Additional information on nearby parks where hiking with pets is permitted, may be obtained at information centers.
Programs/Activities:
A list of free naturalist activities is published in the quarterly newspaper. Programs on lighthouses and lifeboat stations, gray whales, seals and sea lions, wildflowers, birds, geology, Native Americans, tidepools and much more are offered throughout the year.
Lodging and camping facilities:
Four (4) hike-in campgrounds are available in the park. Permits are required, but are free and can be obtained at the Bear Valley Visitor Center. Reservations can be made up to two months in advance by calling (415) 663-1092, Monday through
Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Campgrounds are equipped with running water and pit toilets. Each site has a picnic table and benches, a charcoal brazier and a food storage locker. Wood fires are prohibited in the campgrounds, as are firearms and fireworks. (NOTE: The park is currently reviewing it's camping management policies. A reservation fee for backpack sites may be instituted in 1997.
A variety of bed-and-breakfast inns and a few motels are within five miles of the headquarters. Some are scary tourist traps, while others may actually be worth visiting for some people. Your call...
Each visitor center has a bookstore that is operated by the Point Reyes National Seashore Association. A concession operated cafe exists at Drakes Beach, and a youth hostel is located near Limantour Beach. Five Brooks Stables for rental horse riding is located at Fivebrooks, off of Highway 1. Call the stables at (415) 663-1570, for a listing of daily scheduled trail rides, and to make reservations
Accessibility:
All three visitor centers are wheelchair accessible, and all three have wheelchairs for use. Bear Valley has a TDD, rest room, public telephone and designated parking spaces. The park film is close-captioned, and an assistive listening device can be borrowed for outdoor programs. The Earthquake Trail, a self- guided half-mile loop explaining the San Andreas Fault and 1906 Earthquake, is paved. Other accessible improvements throughout the park include: Limantour Beach (paved trail for birdwatching), Abbott's Lagoon (soil cement trail leading to an overlook, rest rooms at parking lot and parking spaces), and the Historic Pierce Point Ranch (soil cement trail with self-guided signs explaining the history of the 1880 dairy ranch).
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES/PARK USE:
Trails may be used by hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Leisurely drives throughout the seashore to beaches and wildlife areas; such as the tule elk range or historic lighthouse. Picnicking at beaches and trailheads is also recommended. Some restrictions apply to trail usage by bikers and horses, so please pick up free park maps with specific trails marked. Birdwatching is exceptional, especially during fall and spring migrations. The park beaches are also excellent places to view the annual gray whale migration, January through April.
RESERVATIONS/PERMITS:
Reservations are required for school groups wishing a ranger guided walk of the replica Coast Miwok village, the Morgan Horse Ranch, the Earthquake Trail, or the Lighthouse. Reservations are also needed for environmental education programs on wildflowers, whales, and habitat explorations. Call (415) 663-1092. Reservations are not required for backpack camping, but are helpful, especially on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
BASIC VISIT RECOMMENDATIONS:
Begin your visit at the Bear Valley Visitor Center, off highway 1 near Olema; gateway to the seashore. Maps and information are available, as well as rest rooms and a picnic area. Short trails from this visitor center explore earthquake activity, Coast Miwok culture, and the Douglas fir forest for a basic overview of the park. Then head for the beaches, a scenic drive to the elk range or historic lighthouse!
SPECIAL EVENTS, PROGRAMS:
Several annual events take place throughout the seashore. The following is a list with approximate dates: Native American Strawberry Festival (April), Dairy Days (May), Native American Big Time Celebration (July), Morgan Horse Ranch Festival(August), and Sandcastle Contest (Sunday of Labor Day Weekend, September).
VISITOR IMPACTS:
Check at park visitor centers for up-to-date information on road and trail conditions. Information is available on environmental hazards such as ticks, poison oak, or wildlife activity. The park has an active volunteer habitat restoration
program to remove non-native plants and preserve the natural landscape. Also, the "Adopt A Trail Program" allows park visitors to work on trail construction and restoration. If you have some time to spare, call (415) 663-1092 for information on these volunteer opportunities. If you plan to visit during the gray whale migration, parking lots become congested, especially on weekends. A free shuttle service operates from beach parking lots to the lighthouse area. Call (415) 669-1534 for schedules.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Write Information Request,
Point Reyes National Seashore,
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956-9799
or call (415) 663-1092.
Even apart from the Coast Range and its lofty forests, Redwood’s coastline-to which the big tree is intimately related-would justify national park status. Rugged, with stretches of steep, rocky cliff s broken by rolling slopes, it is largely unaltered by humans. Generally rocky, its tidal zone can be difficult to traverse, with exceptions such as Gold Bluffs Beach, a 7-mile stretch of dunes and sandy beach. Visitors to the north coast may discover a rich mix of life forms that occupy distinct habitats shown below.
Many of the park’s marine bird species are migratory. Brown pelicans are summer visitors, cormorants take to lagoon or river and shore waters, and willets and sanderlings work the beach. Offshore may be California gray whales in migration, seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises, and orca (killer) whales. In the intertidal areas the vagaries of periodic wefting and drying have produced tightly zoned layers of life. Lagoons-where freshwater and saltwater mix-are extremely productive of sea life. The national park boundary extends one fourth mile beyond mean high tide.
Offshore
Between shore and the deep ocean an average surface acre is as productive as a similar acre of fertilized agricultural land. Basic wealth lies In phytoplankton, singlecelled plants. Sea lions feed beyond the surf and haul out on shore or on sea stacks. Harbor seals swim In the surf; they haul out in sheltered coves. Several kinds of sea birds nest on offshore rocks. Flowing south, the California Current works with offshore winds to draw nutrients up from deep waters, feeding coastal creatures. Moisture laden air off this current condenses as low clouds over cold water near shore.Intertidal Zone
Twice daily on a 25-hour lunar cycle, tides rise and fall. In the zone between high and low tide, life forms arrange themselves vertically. Just where depends on their tolerance for exposure to air and/or water; heat; and wave shock, as well as the usual biological limits of predation and competition for food and living space. A splash zone just above high tide is home for periwinkle snails and beach hoppers that can withstand the powerful shock of pounding waves and episodic wetting. Splash zone inhabitants are transitional creatures, but they are more attuned to life on land than in the sea. Mussels cling to rocks in the high-tide zone covered by water only at high tide. They must tolerate being exposed to air and direct sunlight temporarily, for which their shells are supremely adapted. Various algae, often called seaweeds and possessing chlorophyll frequent the mid and low-tide zones. They cannot long endure being deprived of water. Seaweeds provide oxygen, food, and shelter for creatures of the intertidal zone. Larger kelp, with bulb-in floats and anchored in deeper water, may rival redwoods in height. Tidepools form in rocky beach outcroppings to shelter life Terms found only in these environments. You can see more animal species here then in a single visit anywhere. Tidepool dwellers must cope with myriad changes-in water temperature, salinity, and oxygen content. Here are barnacles, limpets, nudibranchs, sea urchins, sea stars, and seapalms. The latter, well-anchored by root-like mechanisms called "hold-fasts", are erect seaweeds whose flexible stem-like structure can withstand the full force of breaking waves.Beaches
Life on sandy beaches also observes wet and dry zones based on tides and waves. The lower beach is often wetted while upper beaches resemble narrow deserts between sea and lush Inland forests. Clams and mole crabs burrow into wet lower beaches. Sanderlings follow retreating wave lines to forage washed-up organisms.Sea Cliffs
Northern park beaches tend to be rocky and backed by see cliffs. Southern beaches tend to be backed by bluffs. More than half of the park’s birds are marine species, some of which nest-often in great crowds-in sea cliffs: murres, cormorants, puffins, auklets, gulls, and pigeon guillemots.The Roll of Fog
The passage of air warmed by Inland host over cold, near-shore waters creates fog here almost daily in summer. Fog plays a two-told role that helps approximate the mild, moist climate that prevailed in the Age of Dinosaurs when redwood species grow over much of North America. Bathing redwood forests, the frequent summer fogs bring relief from dry summers and decrease the amount of water lost through leaf surfaces. Also, fog collects on trees and its dripping contributes additional precipitation. Fog is not essential to redwoods, but its absence would reduce their range.Woodlands
Forests of the Coast Range a west slope benefit from proximity to the sea in terms of fog, rainfall, and moderate climate. Redwoods favor moist, north-facing slopes where sunlight‘s effects are less drying. Rivers near sea level also provide hospitable flats.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
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SEQUOIA’S BEAUTY WAS SO COMPELLING THAT IT WAS DESIGNATED THIS COUNTRY’S second national park in 1890. Since then, it has been enlarged and KINGS CANYON has also been designated as a national park. Located in the high mountains of California’s east-central Sierra Nevada, the parks are adjacent to each other, and since 1943 the 864,000 acres have been jointly managed. Most of the region is wilderness. Mt. Whitney, on the eastern edge, is the highest point in the lower 48 states at 14,495 feet, and there are 11 other peaks at more than 14,000 feet. The canyons between the mountains are steep and dry. At alpine elevations above 11,000 feet, no trees grow. But at lower elevations on the western slopes, there are trees-giant sequoias, among the largest living organisms on earth. Other tree species may live longer or grow taller, but no other has such sheer volume. The branches alone can get up to eight feet in diameter The largest grove is at Redwood Mountain in Kings Canyon. It covers 3, 100 acres and has tens of thousands of sequoias with a base diameter of at least one foot. Mule deer, mountain lion, bighorn sheep, black bear, coyotes, marmots, and bobcats are some of the mammals found in different sections of the park.
Getting Away:
More than 90 percent of the park is backcountry with no developed sites and accessible only by 800 miles of trail. It includes parts of the John Muir, Pacific Crest, and High Sierra trails. Day use is heavier in Sequoia. In Kings Canyon, the emphasis is on backpacking, but the country is rugged and access is difficult-just the way you want it if you're looking for solitude and challenge. If you don't have much time, or if you want a quick introduction, consider hiking the steep quarter-mile trail up Moro Rock. From atop the 6,725-foot barren summit, you'll have a panoramic view of the park's diverse features: giant forest plateau to the north; the dry foothills chapparal to the west; the rugged canyon of the Kaweah River to the South; and snow-capped mountain peaks to the east. Because of the limits on backcountry permits, allow extra time for trip planning; you'll need a Plan B and maybe C during the peak season. Guidebooks and topographic maps are necessary for pre-trip research.Camping:
Backcountry use is limited to a designated number of people who can enter at a trailhead. A reservation system allows you to prearrange a trail entry date during the summer. Make reservations only by mail after March I and at least 15 days before your entry date. Even with a reservation, you must pick up your permit at the ranger station nearest the trailhead. A portion of the quota for each trailhead is issued on a first-come, first-served basis only on the morning of departure. Long treks could take you into U.S. Forest Service land, which has different policies and guidelines. Fires are allowed in some areas, but rely on your stove for cooking. Boil, filter, or treat water to avoid Giardia. Summer doesn't really arrive at higher elevations until August and stays a few short weeks. Storms can occur without warning, and lightning strikes are not uncommon.Worth Mentioning:
This is river and canyon country. You'll need a tripod to capture the essence of moving water on film. The list of daily activities in the park is long and diverse; you can tour a marble cave, philosophize about the meaning of wilderness, and discover the ecology of the area. Take advantage of a few of the educational offerings before your trip if possible. Mountain roads can be snow covered at any time of year; bring tire chains.Access:
From the west, access is by Rt. 180 into Kings Canyon or Rt. 198 into Sequoia. There is no vehicle access to the park from the east.For More Information:
Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Parks, Three Rivers, CA 93271; (209) 565-3134. For wilderness information,(209) 565-3708. For advance summer reservations at Lodgepole Campground,(800) 365-2267. Publications and maps are available from the Sequoia Natural History Association, HCR 89 Box 10, Three Rivers, Ca. 93271; (209) 565-3758
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Vernal Falls
Height: Feet & Meters Comparison:
- Upper Fall 1,430ft/ 435m, Sears Tower, Chicago, IL
- Middle Cascades 675ft/ 205m
- Lower Fall 320ft/ 98m Length of soccer field
- Total 2,425ft/ 740m Sears Tower plus Eiffel Tower,Paris, France
Rank:
- Yosemite Falls is the world's 5th tallest.
- World's tallest: Angel Falls, Venezuela, 3,212 ft., 979 m.
- Other taller falls are in South Africa and Norway
Terminology Trivia:
The term falls is best used for waterfalls with multiple drops:
Yosemite Falls, Sentinel Falls, Snow Creek Falls, etc. However, the term falls more properly used when there is only a single drop: Upper Yosemite Fall, Lower Yosemite Fall, Vernal Fall, Bridalveil Fall, etc.
Flow and Volume:
Yosemite Creek has no gauging station for accurate flow measurements. Hydrologists have estimated an average spring flow of 300 cubic feet per second (cfs). There’s approximately 8 gallons per cubic foot of water which converts to 2,400 gallons/second or 9,000 liters/second.
Principally snow melt feeds Yosemite Creek and Falls. A good proportion of this watershed is bare granite with limited soil and few lakes for water storage which would prolong a greater water flow into late summer and autumn. So it roars in spring and whimpers later in the season.
In contrast, the watershed of Bridalveil Fall maintains a greater flow later into the season although its watershed is approximately only 60% the size of Yosemite Creek’s watershed.
There are several reasons for this apparent anomaly:
Bridalveil’s watershed is north-facing which leaves more water available for runoff due to; decreased evaporation in all seasons;
Bridalveil’s watershed has more extensive meadow & forest soil development both in extent and depth resulting in greater water storage capacity. This is due to the greater seasonal availability of moisture and a granitic substrate which more quickly disintegrates.
Watershed Area:
Computed as area above brink of Upper Fall. Source: Jan Van Wagtendonk, Research Scientist, using GIS (Geographical Information System), March, 1991.
49.735 sq. miles; 31,830.58 acres; 12,881.43 hectares
Brief Geology Story for Yosemite Falls:
Waterfall Heights:
The reason the tributary streams to the Merced River in Yosemite Valley have their great height above the valley floor (hanging valleys) is due to differential erosion. That is, the valley’s rivers and glaciers cut down into the rocks more quickly where the valley now lie, than did other tributary streams and glaciers. Tributary drainages were left behind at higher elevations. The valley was cut more deeply and quickly because:
1. The rivers had more water and the glaciers had more ice, because of the greater size of the upstream watershed, thus giving them more erosive power.
2. These rivers and glaciers had more speed since they flowed down the western Sierran slope, which also provided them more erosive power to cut downward. Tributary streams flowing in from the north or south are relatively less steep since they flow across the western slope.
3. The valley’s rivers and glaciers were cutting down into granites containing major, east-west trending straight cracks (i.e. joints). These joints run in the same general direction (east-west) as the westerly flowing rivers & glaciers. These joints gave an advantage to the rivers & glaciers for more rapid & extensive erosion. In contrast, the tributary streams cut across these east-west joint systems thus gaining little advantage from them for eroding downward. (Note: These east-west joints are atypical in the Sierra where the master joints trend north-south as the range does. Geologists debate the reason for this.)
Vertical Cliffs & Waterfall Alcoves:
Nearly all the sheer cliffs form where vertical joint systems allow rocks to flake off thus exposing relatively-clean, nearly-vertical surfaces. Rocks continue to flake off and the cliffs have receded significant distances since glacial times. The extra water (and winter ice) provided by tributary streams have greatly accelerated cliff recession where waterfalls pour over. All major falls in the valley have created their own recessed alcoves in a way that glaciers could never have carved such alcoves. Both Yosemite’s Upper and Lower Falls sit in such recessed alcoves.
Why does Yosemite Falls have 3 levels or drops?
This is again due to joint systems (groups of linear cracks). This time the joints are running horizontally. Two horizontal joint systems interrupt the vertical joint systems. One horizontal joint system is near the base of the upper fall and the other near the brink of the lower fall. Therefore, vertical weaknesses (forming cliffs) meet horizontal weaknesses (forming benches). These two horizontal joint systems are clearly visible running both left and right away from the falls area a quarter mile or more. They are highlighted by the increased amount of vegetation that is encouraged by more ledges, cracks and soil at those locations.
Half Dome
The Tioga Pass Road across the Sierra Nevada through Yosemite National Park has opened without services. See the News Page for details. Yosemite National Park embraces almost 1,200 square miles of scenic wild lands set aside in 1890 to preserve a portion of the central Sierra Nevada that stretches along California's eastern flank. The park ranges from 2,000 feet above sea level to more than 13,000 feet and has these major attractions; alpine wilderness, three groves of Giant Sequoias and the glacially carved Yosemite Valley with impressive waterfalls, cliffs and unusual rock formations.VISITATION:
Highest in June, July and August; lowest in December, January and February.LOCATION:
Yosemite, CAADDRESS:
Headquarters: Yosemite National Park
P.O. Box 577
Yosemite, CA 95389TELEPHONE:
(209) 372-0200OPERATING HOURS, SEASONS:
Open 24 hours a day, year-round.CLIMATE, RECOMMENDED CLOTHING:
Weather can change rapidly during all seasons of the year. Elevation plays a major role in temperature and precipitation. Most of the moisture comes in the months of January, February and March, and the winter climate is relatively mild. Sierra summers are typically warm and dry. April and November are transitional months, when warm, sunny days can suddenly become stormy. Clouds can build up during the summer to produce spectacular thunderstorm activity. It is wise to pack for any season with clothing that can be "layered", ready to peel off or add on as the thermometer dictates. Always include some kind of rain gear.DIRECTIONS:
There are four entrances to the park: the south entrance on Highway 41 north from Fresno, the Arch Rock entrance on Highway 140 west from Merced, the Big Oak Flat entrance on Highway 120 west from Modesto and Manteca and the Tioga Pass entrance on Highway 120 east from Lee Vining and Highway 395. The Tioga Pass entrance is closed from the first major snowstorm in November until approximately early June due to snow. The roads entering the park on its west side are kept open all year, but may require tire chains because of snow anytime between November and April.TRANSPORTATION:
To Park: access by state highways 120, 41, and 140. Several airlines serve Fresno Yosemite International and United Express serves the Merced airport. Motor coach transportation is available year- round from Merced Amtrak station and Transportation Center to Yosemite Valley. In Park: personal vehicle, bicycle, tour bus. Free shuttle bus service in the eastern end of Yosemite Valley (year-round), between Wawona and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and from Tuolumne Meadows to Tenaya Lake (summer only).FEES, COSTS, RATES:
Effective January 15, 1997: Cost for entry is $20.00 per private, non-commercial vehicle for a seven-day stay. The individual entry fee, for those arriving by bus, bicycle, on foot etc. is $10. There is an annual Yosemite Park Pass available for $40.00, good for unlimited visits to Yosemite for one year.FACILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES:
Visitor Center/Exhibits:
There are four visitor centers in Yosemite National Park. The Valley Visitor Center, located in Yosemite Valley is the largest and most comprehensive in terms of displays, books, postcards and maps. The Big Oak Flat Information Station, Wawona Information Station and Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center are open on a more limited basis.Trails, Roads:
One-hundred and ninety-six miles of paved roads within the park, 840 miles of trails. Eight-miles of paved bike path in Yosemite Valley. Other than riding around the lower valley loop, you can pretty much forget any real off-roading. Leave the bike, hit the high country!Programs/Activities:
Regularly scheduled ranger-led walks, talks and evening programs. Concessionaire-operated bus tours, guided horseback rides and bicycle rentals.Lodging and camping facilities:
Lodging in the park is operated by the Yosemite Concession Services Corporation. Rates range from $37.00 per night for a basic tent cabin with nearby bathroom, to over $200 per night for a room at The Ahwahnee. Reservations can be made up to one year and one day in advance by calling (209) 252-4848 or by writing to Central Reservations, 5410 East Home, Fresno, CA 937277.Campgrounds in Yosemite are operated by the National Park Service. Some can be reserved up to five months in advance by calling Destinet at 1-800-436-7275. Visitors making reservations from a foreign country should call (619) 452-8787. All other campgrounds are operated on a first-come, first-served basis. A variety of hotels, motels and campgrounds are available in the communities and areas outside of the park.
Food/supplies:
Food service and groceries available in the park and in surrounding communities.Other Concessions/NPS-Managed Visitor Facilities and Opportunities:
The Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite Valley. Yosemite Bookstore located at the Valley Visitor Center operated by the Yosemite Association.Accessibility:
The park's major sites can be viewed by automobile. Some trails and facilities are wheelchair accessible.RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES/PARK USE:
Viewing waterfalls and well-known rock features in Yosemite Valley; visit to Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and historic Wawona area; drive or hike to Glacier Point, an overlook with a commanding view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and the High Sierra; drive to Tuolumne Meadows along Tioga Road and take a hike - numerous trailheads available.RESERVATIONS/PERMITS:
Wilderness permits are required for any overnight travel into the park's back country. Call (209) 372-0310 for information on permits and reservations. Permits are required for commercial filming, weddings and other special activities through the Special Use Permit Office at (209) 379-1850.BASIC VISIT RECOMMENDATIONS:
Stay for a minimum of four hours to tour Yosemite Valley; will require at least two days for visit to all sites and areas in the park.SPECIAL EVENTS, PROGRAMS:
Activities are available year-round.VISITOR IMPACTS:
To prevent congestion and overcrowding, automobile access may be temporarily restricted in Yosemite on spring weekends and busy holiday weekends such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. If restrictions are necessary, they are expected to be in effect from mid-morning to early evening, depending on available day-use parking space and traffic congestion. To learn more about how the NPS is planning for Yosemite's future see Park Planning/Management Issues.ADJACENT VISITOR ATTRACTIONS:
Contact local chambers of commerce and visitor bureaus. Yosemite Area Traveler Information on line.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Write Public Information Office, Yosemite National Park
P.O. Box 577
Yosemite, CA 95389Phone (209) 372-0265, Monday through Friday (except holidays)
from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
John Muir National Historic Site
J.Muir V.C.
The Site preserves the 17 room mansion where the naturalist John Muir lived from 1890 to his death in 1914. While living in Martinez, Muir accomplished many things: he battled to prevent Yosemite National Park's Hetch Hetchy Valley from being dammed, served as the first president and one of the founders of the Sierra Club, played a role in the creation of several national parks, and wrote many articles and several books expounding on the virtues of conservation and the natural world. The Muir house and historic Martinez adobe became part of the National Park Service in 1964. In 1992, Mt. Wanda was added to the Site. The 325 acre tract of oak woodland and grassland was historically owned by the Muir family.
VISITATION:
Over 32,500 visitors came to the Site in 1994.
Over 43,500 visitors came to the Site in 1995.LOCATION/ADDRESS: TELEPHONE:
Martinez, California (510) 228-8860
(510) 228-8192 (fax)
4202 Alhambra Avenue
Martinez, Ca. 94553OPERATING HOURS, SEASONS:
Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New YearsDIRECTIONS:
From San Francisco: I-80 eastbound, exit at Highway 4 and follow the signs for Martinez and Concord. Exit at Alhambra Avenue and turn left at bottom of the ramp. Cross beneath the freeway and railroad tracks. The visitor center parking lot will be immediately on the left hand side. From I-680: Exit at the Highway 4 ramp, westbound toward Martinez and Richmond. Get off at the Alhambra Avenue exit and turn right at the bottom of the ramp. The visitor center parking lot will be immediately on your left.
TRANSPORTATION:
Access via interstate and state highways. Martinez is served by AMTRAK. Contra Costa County Transit, Line #116, provides access to the Site with connections to AMTRAK, the Pleasant Hill BART station and the Walnut Creek BART station.FEES, COSTS, RATES:
2.00 per adult or $4.00 per vehicle. Children 16 and under are free.FACILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES:
Visitor Center/Exhibits:
Thirty-minute film about John Muir shown six times daily. There are exhibits in the visitor center, Muir House and the Martinez Adobe.Trails, Roads:
A paved walking path goes from the visitor center to the Muir House and orchards throughout the Site. Mt. Wanda has a one mile, self-guided loop trail and several miles of fire road.Programs/Activities:
The house can be seen on our daily guided tour or self-guided tour. Bird and wild flower walks are offered throughout the winter and spring.Lodging and camping facilities:
Available in immediate area; none in the park.Food/supplies:
Several supermarkets and shopping areas are in close proximity to the Site.Other Concessions/NPS-Managed Visitor Facilities:
A bookstore is located in the visitor center and is managed by Southwest Parks and Monuments Association.Accessibility:
The first floor of the Muir House and the grounds are wheelchair accessible. Scripts of the movie shown in the visitor center are available for the hearing impaired.RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES/PARK USE:
Visitation to the Muir House and Martinez Adobe; walks through the grounds; hikes on Mt. Wanda; bird watching and wild flower observation; attendance at numerous special events.RESERVATIONS/PERMITS:
Reservations for school and other educational groups should be made at least two weeks in advance. Any requests for programs in March, April and May should be made at least a month in advance. Special use and filming permits should be submitted at least a month in advance and are approved on a case-by-case basis. For additional information concerning reservations, special use and filming permits, call (510) 228-8860.BASIC VISIT RECOMMENDATIONS:
An hour and a half to visit the house and grounds; two hours for a hike on Mt. Wanda.SPECIAL EVENTS, PROGRAMS:
April: John Muir's Birthday Celebration. An annual celebration of Muir's Scottish heritage, traditionally held on the last Saturday of April.December: Las Posadas. This Mexican tradition celebrates the story of Christmas and is centered around the Martinez Adobe. Victorian Christmas. The Muir house is decorated in accordanceto Victorian era and Muir family traditions. Other special programs include: bird walks, wild flower walks, monthly victorian piano programs and a junior ranger program.
ADJACENT VISITOR ATTRACTIONS:
Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site, Danville. This National Park Site preserves the home of the Pulitzer prize winning playwright Eugene O'Neill. Call (510) 838-0249 for tour information and reservations.Benicia State Capitol State Historic Park, Benicia. This California state park preserves the old state capitol building(1852-53). Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. (707) 745-3385.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Write the Superintendent, John Muir National Historic Site,
4202 Alhambra Avenue, Martinez, CA 94553 or call (510) 228-8860.
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