Fire conditions near Half Dome in Yosemite National Park have ebbed enough for the route to the summit of Half Dome to reopen to the public on Saturday, park officials say.
The cables leading to the top of the granite dome have been closed since this past Sunday night due to a wildfire. The Meadow Fire, located east of Half Dome and near Little Yosemite Valley, is currently at 4,906 acres and is 23 percent contained, park officials said Thursday. Firefighters continue to work to suppress the fire. More than 550 crews are assigned to the chore, including firefighters from the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service. Those ground crews are being aided by seven aircraft.
The trail to Half Dome via Little Yosemite Valley is open to day-use only. No overnight camping in any areas impacted by the fire is permitted. All other area closures, including Little Yosemite Valley, Sunrise High Sierra Camp area, Echo Valley, and Clouds Rest, were still in effect.
Visible smoke in the early morning hours may be present in and around Yosemite Valley and the Half Dome Hike. Visitors who are sensitive to smoke should consider rescheduling their hike to Half Dome or their visit to Yosemite National Park. Visitors are urged to check the park’s website to get updated information on the smoke impacts to the park. Updated information can be found at www.nps.gov/yose or http://www.nps.gov/yose/blogs/fireinfo.htm.
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