Bridal Veil FallFrequently Asked Questions

Based upon visitors we talk to at the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Center in Oakhurst, here are the top questions and answers discussed most frequently:

  1. Where are the waterfalls and how can I see them?
    There are several waterfalls that can be seen in Yosemite Valley. The best time of year to view Yosemite's falls is late spring and early summer, when snow-melt and run-off are at their height.
  2. What are the main points of interest in Yosemite Park?
    Some of the main points of interest may include the Valley waterfalls, Half Dome, Mirror Lake, El Capitan, Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadow, Wawona, and the three groves of giant sequoias.
  3. Where are the giant sequoias?
    The Mariposa Grove is near the south entrance on Hwy 41. The Tuolumne Grove is near Crane Flat off Hwy 120 (west entrance) and the Merced Grove is west of Crane Flat also off Hwy 120 (west entrance).
  4. Where is the famous Wawona Tunnel Tree?Wawona Tunnel Tree
    The most famous tunnel (drive-through) tree is located in the Mariposa Grove. This tree fell during the heavy snow winter of 1968-69. It is shown at right.
  1. Can I drive my car into the Valley?
    Yes.
  2. When do I need tire chains?
    It is necessary to carry chains when entering the Sierra from November 1 through March 31. This is a California State Law. You must carry chains when entering an activated chain control area. That means that when chain restrictions are in effect, visitors must be carrying chains in their vehicles to enter the park. Chains may be made mandatory on any park road at any time.
  3. Where can I find a good place to fish?
    In general, fishing is poor in Yosemite Valley. Fishing is generally better in the high country. Bass Lake and other surrounding lakes in the national forest are regularly stocked.
  4. Where can I take my pet?
    Dogs and other pets must remain on a leash not longer than 6 feet at all times. They are allowed only on paved roads and bike paths. Out of respect for the wildlife and the trail-side habitat, pets are not allowed on hiking trails. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.
  5. Can I take this rock (cone, leaf, flower, etc.) home as a souvenir?
    No. All natural objects should remain in the park as integral components of this ecosystem.
  6. When are the wildflowers best?
    Mid-March into April in the foothills outside the park. Mid-June into August in Yosemite's higher elevations.
  7. What does the word "Yosemite" mean?
    "Yosemite" is derived from a Southern Miwok word "Yehemite," which translates "some among them are killers," which is probably how Mariposa-area Indians referred to the people who lived in Yosemite Valley. Many southern Miwok people in Yosemite intermarried with Paiute people from the eastern Sierra. Traditionally, Paiute and Miwok were enemies. Thus, when Mariposa Indians referred to people in the Valley, they commented that some among the (the Paiute) were killers.
  8. How cold does it get in Yosemite?
    In Yosemite Valley during the winter, average daytime temperatures are 30-55 degrees and 20-35 degrees at night.
  9. How long does the park stay open?
    The park is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. Entrance stations are not staffed 24 hours a day, however.

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Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau © 2010
41969 Highway 41, Oakhurst, CA 93644
tel: 559-683-4636 • fax: 559-683-5697
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