There's certainly lots to see in Yosemite National Park, what with the soaring granite walls, wispy waterfalls, and the spectacular high country. And there's lots to hear, too, when you consider all the interpretation programs and park tours.

Deaf visitors don't need to miss those programs, as the park's Deaf Services Program is ready to offer sign language interpretation.

The National Park Service is committed to accessibility for all visitors.  The Deaf Services Program at Yosemite has been serving the deaf community since 1979.  There is a full-time sign language interpreter in the park every summer, available to interpret any of the wonderful program offerings happening in Yosemite.  Advance request is always encouraged, especially during the off-season, when the park contracts with an outside interpreter to meet demand.

For those who do not use sign language to communicate, there are assistive listening devices available in most visitor centers and at tourdesks.  There are public TTYs and volume control telephones available throughout the valley and at park hotels.  Hotels also offer Deaf guests a “Deaf Kit,” complete with a TTY, a phone amplifier, a bed-shaker alarm, and a fire alarm light flasher.

The Access Pass is a free, lifetime pass for Americans with a permanent disability and allows the passholder and up to four passengers in their car free entry into all National Parks, as well as other federal recreational lands.  Inquire online or in person at any National Park visitor center.

To contact Deaf Services, email [email protected] or call Mary Kline at (209) 372-0645.