MADERA COUNTY – Now that Yosemite National Park is open once again following a resolution to the government shutdown that lasted for three weeks, tourists can once again complete the entire Fossils to Falls Trail according to tourism officials.
The shutdown has hurt a lot of businesses dependent on the millions of people who travel to Yosemite every year. However, it’s given other attractions in the area a chance to shine.
“We promote what we call the ‘Fossils to Falls Trail,'” said Jarrod Lyman, Director of PR for the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau.
“It’s an itinerary of attractions along the most popular entry in to Yosemite, the southern gateway, leading up to the park itself. During the shutdown, these attractions went from being part of a journey leading to Yosemite to being alternatives to the park while guests waited for it to open. Now that Yosemite is open, the trail is complete again,” he said.
The Fossils to Falls Trail includes attractions such as the Fossil Discovery Center in Chowchilla, the Madera Wine Trail, Bass Lake, the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway and many art galleries, museums and more, ending with the attractions inside Yosemite.
“Guests appreciated having some other great things to see while Yosemite was closed, but the park is the main attraction. People are ecstatic they can complete the Fossils to Falls Trail now,” said Lyman.
Officials also say that the reopening of Yosemite came at a perfect time.
“The leaves are changing and it’s absolutely beautiful. Fall is an amazing time in the park, as the changing seasons makes the park light up with color,” said Lyman.
“With fewer people in the park, there have been a lot more animal sightings. So slow down and bring a camera.”
To learn more about the Fossils to Falls Trail, visit www.YosemiteThisYear.com/what-to-do.
