Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park to open after record snowfall, but expect delays

After winter storms battered Yosemite National Park’s infrastructure, officials say several major roads damaged in storms have or will open soon for visitors to California’s crown jewel.

The rain and snow in February and March was unlike anything the state has seen in at least several decades and set records in some cases. That led to cracks on some roadways with surfaces washing away altogether.

Glacier Point Road opened this week, providing access to Bridalveil Creek Campground, Glacier Point and Badger Pass Ski Area, among other spots.

Tioga Road has been closed for the year, restricting access to the northern and eastern sections of the park, but the park service says the road will open at 8 a.m. Saturday.

Facilities along Tioga Road, however, will be without water or grocery store and fuel service, park officials say. “Be sure to bring all the food and water you need,” the park said in a social media post.

Vault and portable toilets will be open.

Tioga Road still has some damage so there may be one-lane sections that could lead to 15-minute delays, like in the area just east of Olmsted Point, officials said.

There is no estimate on when Tamarack Flat or Porcupine Flat campgrounds will open, the park said. Other campgrounds on Tioga Road will not open at all this year.

Officials said snow remains on the ground, especially in shady areas, as low as 8,000 feet. Hikers should stay on the trails, which may be hard to see under the snow.

“Marked trails may be hard or impossible to follow. Hikers should have GPS, as well as (a) map and compass (and know how to use them),” the park said on social media.