Yosemite Now Plans to Reopen Sooner Than Expected After Small Rise in Merced River

After Yosemite National Park announced it would be closed through May 3, the park now plans to partially reopen early following just a small rise in the Merced River.

The park closed on April 28 in anticipation of flooding, but after just a small rise in the river, the park will reopen partially this weekend before fully reopening on Monday, May 1.

“The river did not rise as much as forecast, so Yosemite Valley will be open Sunday from 7 am to 8 pm for day-use only with very limited services,” the National Park Service wrote in a statement. “The only concession services available in Yosemite Valley will be the Village Store, Village Grill, and Degnan’s Kitchen.”

The rivers are still running high in the park, so officials are urging visitors to take extreme caution near water.

Yosemite National Park is known for its spectacular waterfalls, granite cliffs, and giant sequoias, attracting millions of visitors each year. The park officials urge visitors to check the park’s website for updates and closure information before planning their trip.