CLOVIS — The Sierra National Forest is proposing to charge new fees at developed recreation sites. The Bass Lake Ranger District is proposing a new fee of $20 per night at Jerseydale Campground with a $5 extra vehicle fee over two vehicles. The High Sierra Ranger District is proposing a new fee of $20 per night at Kirch Flat Campground with ...

What a beautiful day I had hiking the Lakeview Trail despite that skunk. It was a lovely winter day with blue sky and green grass framing the snow-covered mountains to the east. I was hoping to spot some eagles but it was not in the cards. Where: Eastman Lake, U.S. Army Corps of EngineersDistance: 7.94 MilesDifficulty: Easy to Moderate, depending ...

MARIPOSA COUNTY – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will perform various operations on State Route 49 next week in Mariposa County. Work is scheduled to be performed as follows on Route 49: Single-lane closure from Moccasin Switchback Road to Bear Valley Road for shoulder work beginning Mondy, January 10, through Friday, January 14, 2022, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:0 ...

Mountain Communities – In continued preparation for the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC’s) adoption of 988 as the new three-digit number to be used nationwide to reach the National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline, 11-digit dialing is being implemented. However, callers must continue to dial 1-800-273-TALK to reach the Mental Health Crisis Lifeline until July 16, 2022. For 988 ...

Message from the Madera County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services: Mountain Communities – The Madera County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services, in partnership with Madera County Public Works Road Department, will continue tree mortality project work. 1/5/22- Tree crews will continue work along Road 222, in the Bass Lake Annex area. Upon completion, they will move to Road 221. 1/4/22- ...

Can you believe the incredible and beautiful snow that we have recently received up on our local mountains? We haven’t seen this in a while and it is ready to be enjoyed. We headed up before our big snow storms to visit those wonderful views that Dewey Point provides. Badger Pass Ski Area is open for business and you can ...

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The ushering in of a new year brings with it the anticipation of a fresh start, positive changes, and healthy resolutions.  What it should not bring are headlines of tragedies caused by drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol. To encourage safe travel for those who are out on the road, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) ...

OAKHURST — It was the day after Christmas 12-26-21, and our area had been receiving some much-needed snow. Families were very excited for the chance to play in the snow together, even though officials had been recommending against travel into the Sierra Nevada Mountains for the week leading up to Christmas, as we reported here. I had spent the day ...

If you’ve wanted to watch your county government in action or perhaps speak your mind on an issue that concerns you but aren’t able to travel to Madera to do it, here’s your chance, Mountain Folk. The Board of Supervisors will meet in Oakhurst on Tuesday, January 4, beginning at 2 pm for the closed session and 3 pm for ...

Sahara and I walked down the Bright Angel Trail, then stayed 2 nights at the historic Phantom Ranch which opened in 1922. Lots of history and beauty here, no wonder so many people throughout history have been drawn to this location. I hiked and explored while my mule Sahara enjoyed just munching and hanging out in the corral, watching the ...