Yosemite waterfalls roaring just in time for spring break
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK -- After nearly five years of drought, water is flowing again in the creeks and falls of Yosemite National Park.
"As folks know, it has been a great winter. We've had record snowpacks," said Scott Gediman with the National Park Service. "The waterfalls are great, and they are just starting to get great."
Gediman said Yosemite had more than 5 million visitors in 2016 and officials expect similar numbers this year. Spring break marks the beginning of a busy tourist season that runs through the summer.
"Our best advice for people coming to the park right now is, on the roads, is just to drive slow," he said. "Be aware of your surroundings, give yourself plenty of time and be careful."
But the increase of traffic, limited parking and several construction projects are not stopping visitors from across the country from seeing the beautiful scenery Yosemite has to offer.
"You kind of drive into some pretty high peaks and pretty big waterfalls," visitor Matt Smith said. "It's all right there for you."
Gediman expects bigger crowds when the $30 entrance fee is waived for visitors during the next two weekends.
"These are good for the days so folks can come in. They don't have to pay the park entrance fee," he said. "If you are coming, you still have to pay that fee and others, but the free weekends are a great way for people to come up."
Entrance to the park will be free for visitors on April 15th, 16th, 22nd and 23rd.
