June 22, 2023 Tioga Road Update

The Roads Crew continues to work in the Olmsted Point area.  The “thick blue ice” in this area is exceptionally challenging: dozers are ineffective and excavators are being used to break up the ice for the blowers.  Avalanche danger at Olmsted Point is a significant concern for employee safety.  NPS is in close contact with Mono County Public Works regarding possible assistance. 

There is road damage at Olmsted Point, 10 miles west of Olmsted Point, and near Tamarack Flat Campground.  The visible damage in each of these locations appears to be limited to one lane, however the roadbed between Olmsted Point and Tioga Pass is not visible due to snow/ice. 

Crews are unable to access Tuolumne Meadows: previous damage assessments indicate 80% of facilities are damaged and high groundwater levels will affect the operation of the wastewater treatment plant.  Further assessments will be conducted and updates provided when road access allows. 

Bathrooms must be available before the Tioga Road can open to the public: bathrooms are necessary to protect public health, water quality, and other park resources.  NPS is exploring contracting for temporary sanitation facilities (e.g. portable toilets, handwashing stations) and pumping of vault toilets. 

Due to this year’s exceptional winter, availability of facilities will be a significant limiting factor this summer in the operation of the Tioga Road and high visitor use areas such as Tuolumne Meadows. 

Any questions? Please reach out.

Have a safe weekend,

Mark Krebs

Mather District Ranger (Canyon Ranch, Crane Flat, and Tuolumne Meadows Sub-Districts)

Yosemite National Park 

209-379-1898 (Office)