Yosemite Wilderness is a 704,624-acre area of federally protected land in Yosemite National Park, which is managed by the National Park Service. The area is part of a larger 3 million acre area of the Sierra Nevada, which is protected under the National Wilderness Preservation System. Approximately 94% of the national park is designated as wilderness, ensuring the preservation of the natural state of the land as well as providing opportunities for solitude and primitive nature experiences.
There are many roads that enter Yosemite Wilderness from all directions. The west side can be reached via highways 140, 120, and 49, and the east side can be reached via highway 120 / Tioga Pass. In the designated wilderness, you can explore the roadless, pristine nature on more than 700 miles of trails.
WILDLIFE
Yosemite National Park, and the designated wilderness area, is home to a variety of animals including black bears, coyotes, Sierra bighorn sheep, mule deer, and several species of birds.
Black bears have become a significant problem in the area as they have become more and more comfortable around humans and are venturing into areas where they are not welcome. The Yosemite Wilderness requires you to store food and other scented items in bear-proof containers to protect yourself and the bears. In Yosemite, hanging food is not permitted. For more information about proper food storage and/or bear can rentals please visit https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/bearcanrentals.htm.
RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES
Trail running, hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, camping, nature viewing, and bird watching are some of the most popular outdoor activities. The area encompasses:
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Over 700 miles of trails.
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Hike along the John Muir Trail (JMT).
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Hike a section of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).
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54 miles of the Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River.
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78 miles of the Merced Wild and Scenic River.
For current trail conditions please visit: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildcond.htm.
PERMITS
All overnight trips require a wilderness permit. The National Park Service provides up-to-date information about permits and how to obtain one at https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildpermits.htm.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Backcountry and Trail Information
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