Weather and Safety in Yosemite

Our education staff is trained and experienced in providing quality education in various weather conditions. Educators complete and maintain a Wilderness First Responder certification (WFR), an 80-hour comprehensive training in wilderness first aid. All of our field staff carry a radio monitored by our office staff and Yosemite National Park central dispatch. We work closely with national park rangers, Yosemite Search and Rescue, and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) personnel to provide a prompt response in the event of an emergency.

To successfully navigate winter weather challenges, participants should come prepared by following our packing list. NatureBridge is able to provide extra warm clothing, rain gear and overboots from our gear library for groups that serve students of limited financial means.

As you plan for a winter arrival to Yosemite, take the proper transportation safety precautions to make it to the park for your scheduled program. 

• CalTrains Chain Control Requirements- Chain requirements can go into effect at any time in Yosemite National Park. 
• Transportation providers are required to have tire chains in the vehicle to enter the park during certain road restrictions AND be prepared to drive in wintry conditions. 
• Yosemite NP Current Conditions- online or call 209-372-0200 (press 1, then 1 again) to monitor current weather and road conditions. Note: There are multiple access roads into the Valley that provide alternative routes in case of road closures.

Contact the NatureBridge Yosemite Outreach and Operations teams before making decisions about canceling or attempting to reschedule programs. If an event causes road closure or temporary closure of the park, our team will reach out with options and next steps. Please review the Change in Program policies in your contract for details. 

It is not unusual for Yosemite to be in the news, especially during heightened weather events. Our team communicates directly with the National Park Service and has the most up-to-date information to help you make safe and informed decisions about your visit. Contact Jeff Crow, NatureBridge’s Director of Risk Management, with questions regarding the specific risks associated with winter travel in the park.

Additional links for current weather conditions:

• NOAA Weather Forecast for Yosemite Valley
• Yosemite Conservancy Webcams
• NOAA River Forecast Center
• YosemiteNPS Instagram