Yosemite National Park closed to all visitors indefinitely due to coronavirus

Half Dome as seen from Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park, California. Half Dome as seen from Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park, California. Photo: Www.bazpics.com/Getty Images Photo: Www.bazpics.com/Getty Images Image 1 of / 49 Caption Close Yosemite National Park closed to all visitors indefinitely due to coronavirus 1 / 49 Back to Gallery

In response to the spread of the novel coronavirus and the statewide shelter-in-place order issued Thursday night, Yosemite National Park is now closed to all visitors for an indefinite period of time.

The National Park Service wrote in a statement Friday afternoon that effective immediately, the park is closed to all individuals except residents of communities within the boundary of the park, residents of Yosemite West using NPS roads to access their residences, and authorized NPS personnel.

"The closure area will be monitored to ensure compliance," the statement reads. "Your cooperation in complying with this temporary restriction is greatly appreciated."

Earlier in the week, the park had only closed campgrounds and visitor centers while the park's entrance, hiking trails and outdoor spaces remained open.

The new order is in effect until formally rescinded.

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Eric Ting is an SFGATE digital reporter. Email: eric.ting@sfgate.com | Twitter:@_ericting