Iconic Yosemite Trail Reopens 3 Years After Ice Damage Forced Closure
Back in 2023, the John Muir Trail at Yosemite National Park was damaged by the record-setting snow, avalanche, ice, and water that slid onto the “Ice Cut” section between Clark Point and Panorama Trail Junction. The extreme forces of the snow, ice, and rain pushed an extremely large block of the granite outward, leaving a large nine inch wide crack near the outside edge of the trail that supports the constructed stone guard wall. During this time, pack animal operations on this segment of the John Muir Trail were stopped, which impacted trail use and wilderness operations.
The NPS contracted a crew to make repairs on the trail, blasting rock, pouring concrete from helicopters, and operating heavy equipment while hanging from ropes. The repairs consisted of blasting into the existing rock cut to widen the bench.
Mirroring the original trail construction method, the crew widening the bench approximately six feet, providing ample space for an 8 foot wide trail, a 18-inch wide guardwall, and a two to three foot safety margin beyond the crack. The project also moved the guard wall to the inside of the rock crack, resurfaced the trail to maintain drainage, and provided a suitable surface for both hikers and stock.
More trail work is in progress on the nearby Mist Trai through October 2026. The Mist Trail from the John Muir Trail junction above the Vernal Fall Footbridge to the top of Vernal Fall will temporarily detour to the John Muir Trail on Mondays through Thursdays from 7 am to 3:30 pm. The trail will be open after these hours and on Fridays, weekends, and holidays.
Trail Etiquette
Pets, bicycles, and strollers are prohibited. Do not shortcut switchbacks, which causes rapid trail erosion and results in injuries. Keep your food within arm’s reach at all times and do not feed the wildlife. Carry out all trash and food waste (fruit peels, shells, etc.).
Stay Safe
- Stay on the established trail: do not swim or wade in the river and do not walk along the edge of the river.
- Observe warning signs and railings—these exist for your safety.
- Carry a head lamp (with fresh or extra batteries) in case you end up hiking more slowly or farther then planned and find yourself hiking back in the dark.
- Sprained ankles and knee injuries are common on this trail. There are many areas of loose rock/decomposed granite, mixed with steep steps, and water, which makes for slippery footing in places.
- Avoid becoming dehydrated or experiencing heat exhaustion. Drink plenty and drink often; pace yourself; rest in the shade; and eat salty snacks.
- The granite steps along the Mist Trail leading up to the brink of Vernal Fall can be slick and crowded. Consider making a loop by continuing on the trail, past the brink of Vernal Fall and Emerald Pool, taking the cutoff trail to Clark Point, and then hiking down the John Muir Trail.
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