Yosemite National Park fire crews completed ignitions on the prescribed burn in Yosemite Valley. This project focused on seven units east of El Capitan Crossover toward Leidig Meadow. Ignitions began on Monday May 24, 2021 and a total of 182 acres were treated. On Wednesday May 26, 2021 conditions changed and were no longer favorable for burning operations to continue. Smoke will linger in Yosemite Valley for one to two weeks. This project is part of the Yosemite Valley Parkwide Prescribed Fire Plan which encompasses 35 units totaling 12,114 acres
Sections in the prescribed burn remain active and in order to maintain safety of visitors, the Valley Loop Trail segment within the burn area between Cathedral Beach and El Capitan Cross is closed to all travel (with the exception of roads and parking areas within the Sentinel Beach and Cathedral Beach areas).
The Merced River, within Yosemite National Park, downstream of Sentinel Beach is closed to watercraft until further notice.
Fire personnel and equipment will remain in the area and continue to patrol and monitor the burn units.