Yosemite National Park
Sierra Sun Times file photo
May 15, 2017 – After last year's record setting number of visitors to Yosemite National Park March 2017 continues the slowdown in visitors as the number of recreation visitors was down by 41.9% compared to March 2016.
The Arch Rock Entrance Station (Mariposa -Highway 140) had a increase of visitors by auto of 40.9% compared to March 2016. Year to date numbers show a increase of visitors by auto of 12.2%. This entrance had an increase of visitors as the South Entrance was closed for a number of days during the month and the Big Oak Flat Entrance access to Yosemite Valley was closed due to road repair.
The Big Oak Flat Entrance Station (Groveland - Highway 120) had a decrease of visitors by auto of 81.9% compared to March 2016. Year to date numbers show a decrease of visitors by auto of 54.8%. See park staff comments below.
The South Entrance (Oakhurst - Highway 41) had a decrease of visitors by auto of 67.7% compared to March 2016. Year to date numbers show a decrease of visitors by auto of 56%. See park staff comments below.
The total recreation visitors to Yosemite National Park for March 2017 was down by 41.9% compared to March 2016. Year to date numbers show a decrease of recreation visitors of 35.4%.
Park staff comments for March 2017: The South Entrance traffic count reflects closure on Highway 41 which reopened after road failure repairs were completed on March 12th.
Park staff comments for February 2017: The Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 into Yosemite Valley) closed on February 21st due to road failure caused by heavy precipitation.
And
South Entrance: Highway 41 closed on February 21st due to road failure effecting access to the park via the South Entrance.
Source: NPS