Yosemite Conservancy Newsletter | August 2021

Photo © Yosemite Conservancy/Keith Walklet

Recent News from Yosemite

On July 28, the National Park Service announced a new mask policy in conjunction with updated CDC guidance: visitors to Yosemite, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear a mask inside all park buildings. Click the "Learn More" button below for answers to all your COVID-related questions.

July 28 was also Buffalo Soldiers Day, dedicated to honoring the African American army regiments who were among the first park rangers in the world. “These warriors have earned the right to be celebrated for what they, and other troops, saved for the world: Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks.”

Another recent celebration: our 98th birthday! The philanthropic organization now known as Yosemite Conservancy was founded on August 4, 1923 to help build a museum in Yosemite National Park, and was the first nonprofit partner in the national park system. The important milestones continue later this month, as the National Park Service turns 105 on August 25 — entrance fees are waived at parks across the country, including Yosemite.

Photo courtesy of Adventure Risk Challenge

Power Posing Her Way Through The Park

Adventure Risk Challenge, one of the Youth in Yosemite programs our donors support, connects high school students with “meaningful and transformational experiences in the outdoors.” We loved learning just how life-changing the experience was for alumna Rosenda Sánchez-Avina — a recent UC Merced graduate who studied literature and plans to pursue a career in publishing — and who was a high school junior when she attended ARC. Read her inspiring story in our latest blog post.

Photo © Grace Wang

A "Backstage Pass for Yosemite"

That’s how participant Siobhan described her recent trip to Yosemite for our bird-banding Outdoor Adventure. “It’s a really great way to see the park; even in the crowded valley, they find less-traveled trails and introduce us to interesting spots off the beaten path. Classes also include park admission and free (!) camping from the night before through the night after.” And if you can’t commit to a multi-day trip, our Naturalist Walks were made for you — join us for 1-2 hour guided programs, offered weekdays through September 28.

Photo © Yosemite Conservancy/Schuyler Greenleaf 

Video: Virtual Tour of Bridalveil Fall

What's going on at Bridalveil? In this YouTube video, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing restoration work taking place in the Bridalveil area. From the creation of new, accessible trails to alleviate pedestrian congestion, to improved facilities including modern restrooms, we're excited to share these radical improvements. You'll also hear from project managers and trail crews working to coordinate with associated local Tribes, implement sustainable construction techniques and enhance the visitor experience in this iconic Yosemite destination.

Photo © Yosemite Conservancy/Madison Smith

Hats On Sale...Again!

Our best-selling Yosemite hats have been flying off the shelves, and we're here for it! Enjoy another month-long discount code on all baseball caps, youth hats, and trucker hats. Stock up on stylish sun protection with discount code AUG2021.

Want the chance to see your shots featured here?
It’s easy! Share Yosemite photos with us on Flickr, and tag your best shot with #yosemiteconnect. Winners will be featured online and in our monthly newsletter.