Yosemite National Park, established in 1890, welcomes nearly four million visitors annually, with the National Park Service dedicated to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for all.
A Commitment to Accessibility
The Park Service at Yosemite is committed to continually enhancing both physical and programmatic accessibility across the park. Their efforts are focused on ensuring access for the greatest number of visitors:
- Infrastructure Improvements: The Park Service is dedicated to improving accessibility by designing new facilities and rehabilitating older structures to meet and exceed accessibility standards.
- Accessible Shuttle Bus Service: Yosemite offers a complimentary shuttle service in Yosemite Valley, designed to be fully accessible to all park visitors.
Resources for Accessible Visits
To create a more inclusive experience, Yosemite National Park offers a variety of accessible resources and programs:
- Accessibility Guide (updated May 2022): This guide provides detailed information on accessible areas, facilities, and services, specifically tailored for visitors with disabilities. It is also available in a Braille File Format.
- Deaf Services Program: Yosemite engages the Deaf community with services specifically designed to enhance their park experience.
- Park Brochure in Braille: The park brochure is also accessible as a Braille file for visually impaired visitors.
- Junior Ranger Handbook - Adapted Activities: This handbook includes Junior Ranger activities adapted for children with diverse communication, learning, motor, and/or sensory needs.
- Visual Guide to Visiting Yosemite Valley for People with Aphasia: A specialized guide crafted to enhance the park experience for visitors with aphasia.
- Audio Description for Park Brochure: Visitors can access audio descriptions of the park brochure through the UniDescription app, available for iOS and Android devices.
Source: National Park Service Archive
Experience Yosemite Your Way
Yosemite National Park Service is devoted to ensuring every visit is as enjoyable and inclusive as possible.
Accessible Attractions
The Sierra Nevada is a haven for natural beauty. One of the highlights is the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, which offers a historical and scenic ride through the Sierra National Forest on a restored steam locomotive. This attraction provides a wheelchair-accessible journey back in time, allowing everyone to experience the rich history and stunning mountain landscapes.
In addition to the railroad, the area boasts a variety of accessible venues and activities, ensuring that every traveler can experience the best of the region. From wheelchair-accessible restaurants, lakeside day-use areas, and viewpoints to visitor centers with accessible features, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Beyond Yosemite
For those planning to extend their adventure to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, find information to ensure your visit is enjoyable and accessible.
- Discover more giant sequoias, stunning mountain landscapes, and deep canyons in these famed National Parks south of Yosemite. For detailed accessibility resources and guides, please visit Sequoia and Kings Canyon Accessibility Information.
- Additionally, we are proud to share that our neighbors in Visalia near Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks have achieved recognition as a Certified Sunflower Destination. This certification highlights their commitment to supporting visitors with hidden disabilities, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment.
Have Specific Access Needs?
We understand that each visitor's needs are unique. If you have questions regarding access to restaurants, attractions, or any location within Yosemite and the surrounding area, please don't hesitate to contact us at the visitor center. Our staff is dedicated to assisting you and ensuring your visit is enjoyable and accessible. For personal assistance, please get in touch with our visitor center at (559) 683-4636 or info@yosemitethisyear.com.
