YOSEMITE — As the South Fork Fire continues to threaten the areas surrounding the community of Wawona, certain trails have been closed to the public.

“In order to maintain the safety of park visitors and allow fire management operations to continue unimpeded, the Superintendent of Yosemite National Park is designating the following area as closed until further notice is given:

The Swinging Bridge Trail on both the north and south sides of the South Fork of the Merced River.

The Chilnualna Falls Trail from Wawona Trailhead to the top of Chilnualna Falls.

The two mile connecting trail heading north from the top of Chilnualna Falls to the intersection of the Buena Vista Trail.

The Chilnualna Creek Trail from the top of Chilnualna Falls east to the intersection of the Buena Vista and Buck Camp trails (Just east of Johnson Lake).

Off-trail areas in the vicinity are closed (i.e. all areas within the shaded circle on the map below).

All climbing routes on and around Wawona Dome are closed.

“Notice of closure will be posted and area will be monitored to ensure compliance,” say Park officials. “Your cooperation in complying with this temporary restriction is greatly appreciated. The designation will remain in place until rescinded.”

The Office of the Superintendent announced these operational changes this morning:

Wawona Campground is closed.

Bridalveil Creek Campground closes on Wednesday morning.

Wawona trail (mule) rides are not operating.

Big Trees Golf Course is closed.

The Badger Pass-Glacier Point shuttle will not operate until further notice as the incident command post is occupying the Yosemite Ski and Snowboard Area facility and parking lot.

The Glacier Point Road will will remain open to the public however it will close periodically between 10am and 5pm each day when parking at Glacier Point fills to capacity (and will reopen when sufficient space is available). Traffic delays should be expected.

A voluntary ban on wood fires is in place in Yosemite Valley to reduce smoke. A mandatory ban may be instituted in the days to come.

We will update with new data on the fire suppression efforts this evening.