Popular Road into the Park Closed Since Thursday Due to Rockfall
January 9, 2016 - The El Portal Road (continuation of Highway 140) in Yosemite National Park will re-open at 6:00 p.m. today to all vehicular traffic. The road has been closed since Thursday morning due to a rockfall that blocked access to Yosemite Valley via this popular route.
Yosemite National Park Rangers and road crews have been working extended shifts to clear the rocks and debris from the road and make the road safe for travel.
"I would like to thank our road crews, Park Rangers, and Resources Management and Science staff for their hard work over these past several days," stated Don Neubacher, Yosemite National Park Superintendent. "Their dedication to safely and quickly re-open the El Portal Road exemplifies our commitment to serving the many visitors coming to Yosemite National Park."
Visitors are urged to drive with caution as crews and equipment may be present along the roadway. Additionally, hazards such as rocks and other debris may be present.
There are currently chain restrictions in place on many roads within Yosemite National Park. All drivers, including those with four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles, must carry chains when entering a designated chain control area.
For the most current road conditions, please call 209-372-0200. Press option “1” and then “1” again to go directly to the road conditions report.
Source: NPS
