Yosemite National Park remains partially open during shutdown, most employees furloughed

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK -- A trip to Yosemite National Park came down to a gamble that paid off for one tour group from France.

"We flipped a coin. I saw on the internet that it may be open or not, so we made a bet and we won. We're right here in Yosemite National Park," French tour guide Xavier Chanut said.

Chanut wasn't sure what to expect on the first day of the government shutdown. He had a backup plan but was relieved to see Yosemite still open.

"I didn't know if we were going to enter. We did it, we took the risk. If not, it was turning around and going to find a state park like Calaveras or somewhere," he said. "We said we're going to try it, we made it, we got to the gate, we entered and here we are."

Park roads, lookouts, trails and open-air memorials remain open. Hotels and other lodging options operated by Yosemite Hospitality are still welcoming guests, and the popular YARTS buses are running smoothly.

However, ranger programs and the visitor center are shut down.

"Some of the shops were closed, but we were able to see the nature, so it's okay," French tourist Faycal Aoubid said.

According to the Department of Interior's contingency plan, roughly 64% of the National Park Service workforce is furloughed, except essential emergency crews and limited maintenance staff.

Entrance booths sat vacant on Wednesday as cars passed through freely.

"So far, it's been absolutely amazing. Beautiful scenery, of course. That's not going to change with the government shutting down," Portland resident Kristina Benson said.

Jacob Hawley with the Mariposa visitor center and Chamber of Commerce says they've been extra busy answering questions.

"We're getting a lot of phone calls, but not a lot of change," Hawley said.

For surrounding communities, tourism tied to the park is vital.

"If it's a long-term impact something that lasts longer than normal, I think that would be concerning but right now, I'm hoping that Congress will come together," Hawley said.

A momentous day for the country but also for guests able to celebrate Yosemite's 135th birthday inside the park on October 1.

Some people remain concerned about the well-being of the parks during this time, when it comes to garbage and maintenance, but others say this partial opening is the best solution for the park and its visitors.

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