Old West New West: An above normal spring runoff from winter's heavy snow pack is creating spectacular views of Yosemite National Park's waterfalls, and rangers said waterfalls should last well into summer.
The May 1, 2011 snow survey, conducted by the California Department of Water Resources, reports the snow pack in the Merced River drainage at 199 percent of normal and the Tuolumne River drainage at 184 percent of normal, among the deepest snow packs in recent history for the Sierra.
Because of the above-normal snow pack, Rangers are saying Yosemite's waterfalls are near peak conditions. Due to the large amount of snow still in the high country, the waterfalls are expected to last longer into the summer season than normal, rangers added.
The heavy winter snow and wet spring have presented challenges to the Yosemite road crews, who are working to clear the Glacier Point Road and the Tioga Road. Although progress has been made on both roads, late openings are possible, especially on the Tioga Road.
Another set back from Mother Nature is impacting the cables on Half Dome, used by hikers to ascend the summit of the granite monolith. Because of the heavy snow pack, the cables have not been placed for the season. The cables will be erected when trail crews have safe access to Half Dome and can perform the work. It is doubtful that the cables will be ready for use by the Memorial Day weekend, rangers said.
Visitors within the park are being advised to be aware of high water level and fast moving water in the Merced River and other streams. With the increasingly warm weather, snow in the high country continues to melt and fill the Merced River. Extreme caution is important when in proximity to any moving water.
For current road conditions at Yosemite National Park, visit the website at www.nps.gov/yose
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