Sustainable Travel is more important than ever in our National Parks. With the threat of wildfire, drought, and the ever-changing climate, being aware of how to travel and enjoy a destination while preserving it and even getting involved is becoming more and more popular. Here is some helpful information on sustainability and accessibility in Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite National Parks. Also find ways that you too can interact with and contribute to your favorite places to visit.
Here are tips and programs that are helping our National Parks and surround communities to preserve and protect the lands we love.
Yosemite National Park Zero Landfill Initiative - Yosemite is trying to send less trash to the local county landfill, which is filling up quickly. You can help! Fun Fact: Visitors to Yosemite leave behind 2,200 tons of garbage per year. That is equal to 3,919 dumpsters full of trash. Stack those dumpsters one on top of another and you get a mountain 16,735.5 feet tall. That is taller than any peak in Yosemite and, in fact, higher than any mountain in the lower 48 states.
#RecreateResponsibly - is to care for one another and the places we play! We all have a role to play. Time in nature and outdoor recreation has proven to be essential for all. Especi8ally during uncertain times, all of us, from seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, to families heading out to their local park for the first time, can turn to community and simple reminders about how to safely and responsibly recreate outdoors while caring for one another. Helpful tips and information on water, wildfire, seasonal information and more.
California Responsible Travel Code from Visit California - https://www.visitcalifornia.com/things-to-do/travel-california-respect-california/
Yosemite National Park - This guide outlines accessible services, facilities, and activities available in Yosemite. It describes ways people with sight, hearing, and mobility impairments can enjoy Yosemite. Download the guide: Yosemite National Park Accessibility Guide 2022
Sometimes you just want to join in and give-back to a location you love to visit. We’ve put together a few ways you can do just that while traveling in Madera County and Yosemite National Park. Added benefit, you’ll be working besides locals who know all the secret places to go to!
Yosemite Conservancy - a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Yosemite’s resources and providing enriching visitor experiences in the park. Our philanthropic partnership with Yosemite goes back more than 95 years. To Volunteer: https://yosemite.org/experience/volunteer/
Yosemite Annual Facelift - Yosemite Valley’s largest volunteer clean-up event. Click the link to see dates and important information on how you can get involved.
The Nature of Wildworks Coarsegold, CA - Volunteer to spend a little time helping animals...The Nature of Wildworks is dedicated to the lifetime quality care of non-releasable wild animals, our wildlife care center houses such diverse species as mountain lions, bobcats, gray fox, barn owl, and many other birds and mammals, most of which are native to the California environment. Our mission is to provide wildlife educational programs and publications teaching people to coexist safely and humanely with wildlife.
Eastern Madera Recreation and Parks (EMRAP) - this organization is involved with many nonprofits around the southern gateway to Yosemite. Everything from local parks to the many trails around the area, they are involved by holding fundraising events like Movies or Concerts in the Park to trail clean up days. Check out their website for more information on how you can be involved or what fantastic event they are holding that you can enjoy while giving back.
South Gate Trail Cooperative - this amazing group goes out on local trails and cleans them up, as well as makes trail repairs and improvements. Note: I’m pretty sure this includes some epic trail rides as well, as this group knows how to work hard and play hard!
Stewards of the Sierra - this working group’s mission is to unite the many people who enjoy the diverse recreation activities available in the Sierra National Forest, promoting responsible recreation and use of forest resources through conservation and education, and ensuring public access to the forest in the present and for future generations. Join the cause to make a difference!
As we continue to build out our Sustainability Plan for Madera County and the southern Yosemite region, we will continue to post information and helpful tips.
1. Bring your reusable shopping bags. California requires a $.10 fee (or higher) for shopping bags at grocery and other stores. So remember to bring your own bag and save a few cents and the environment!
2. Oakhurst Park-n-Ride with EV Charging. There is a new Park-n-Ride area on Civic Circle Drive next to the Oakhurst Library. This is a great area to park your car and hop on the summer Trolley around Oakhurst; meet up with your Yosemite tour; park and shop and dine around town; have a picnic at the local Oakhurst Community Park; or start the Oakhurst River Parkway Trail. COMING SOON: EV parking to recharge while you play in Oakhurst.
