Yosemite Entrances Closed as Winter Storm Hits Sierra

Four out of five park entrances shut down due to heavy snow and high winds during Bay Area ski week.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A powerful winter storm has forced the closure of four out of five entrances to Yosemite National Park, disrupting travel during the busy Bay Area ski week. The storm has brought heavy snow and strong winds to the Sierra Nevada region, making road conditions treacherous. Park officials have warned visitors to be prepared for rapidly changing conditions and to carry tire chains.

Why it matters

Yosemite is a major tourist destination, especially during the winter ski season. The closure of multiple park entrances will significantly impact visitors' ability to access the park and enjoy its iconic scenery and attractions, like the Horsetail Fall "firefall" phenomenon. The storm also highlights the challenges of operating a national park during extreme winter weather events, which are expected to become more frequent due to climate change.

The details

Four of Yosemite's five entrances have been closed due to the winter storm. Wawona Road (Highway 41) was closed overnight due to fallen trees, while Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120) was temporarily shut down because of snow. Tioga Road, Glacier Point Road, and Mariposa Grove Road remain closed for the season. Only the El Portal entrance via Highway 140 remains open, and park officials warn that tire chains may be required on any road at any time.

  • The storm began impacting the park on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
  • The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Yosemite and the surrounding Sierra region through 10 p.m. on Thursday, February 20, 2026.
  • The park's famed Horsetail Fall "firefall" phenomenon is unlikely to be visible due to the cloudy conditions, which are expected to continue through the weekend.

The players

Yosemite National Park

A popular national park located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, known for its iconic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for issuing weather forecasts and warnings for the United States.

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What’s next

Park officials have warned that the closures and hazardous conditions may continue through the weekend, and have advised visitors to check the latest updates before planning a trip to Yosemite.

The takeaway

This winter storm highlights the challenges of operating a national park during extreme weather events, which are expected to become more frequent due to climate change. The closure of multiple Yosemite entrances will significantly impact visitors' ability to access the park during the busy ski season, underscoring the need for park management to be prepared for such disruptions.