Tourists cautioned about 'extremely rare' event unfolding at Yosemite: 'Geologists baffled by unprecedented occurrence'

Yosemite National Park, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking scenery, has recently become the focus of safety warnings as officials report an unusual spike in rockfall events. Visitors are urged to exercise caution when exploring the park's popular climbing areas.

According to reports from the US Geological Survey, rockfalls are sudden drops of rocks and boulders from steep slopes or cliff faces. While Yosemite has historically experienced rockfalls, with over a thousand recorded in the past 150 years, the current frequency and scale have drawn particular concern from experts.

One affected site is the Super Slide climbing route, which has been closed following the detection of a significant fissure named "Super Natural." First noticed in 2023, this crack has shifted noticeably with seasonal changes. The closure, implemented in August 2024, remains in effect as park officials continue to assess additional hazards in the area.

Jesse McGahey, Yosemite's climbing program manager, highlighted the unprecedented nature of the situation, citing remarks from a park geologist who surveyed the site. "In 15 years of work here, he has never witnessed anything like this," McGahey said, emphasizing the unusual scale and behavior of the rock formations.

While rockfalls are naturally occurring, they can be intensified by human activity and climate-related changes, such as warming-induced permafrost melt, which weakens mountainous terrain. Similar phenomena have caused significant evacuations in other regions, including the Brenta Dolomites in Italy, where 100 tourists were relocated due to multiple rockfalls in July 2025.

Yosemite authorities are collaborating with the USGS to closely monitor the area and implement measures to reduce risk, including adjusting or removing structures in vulnerable zones. Visitors are encouraged to report any rockfalls, no matter how minor, as every observation aids in improving safety strategies.

Those planning a trip to the park are advised to stay alert and maintain awareness of their surroundings, ensuring both personal safety and the preservation of Yosemites unique natural landscape.

Author: Benjamin Carter