Yosemite's 1,200 square miles are criss-crossed by 800 miles of trails. Maintained trails are the primary means of minimizing human impact on the wilderness. Visitors and pack animals travel on Yosemite's trails, along waterfalls and through wetlands. Properly maintained trails protect the adjacent environment by directing hikers and walkers safely through fragile areas and by preventing erosion. When trails are in good condition and clearly marked, visitors and the environment benefit.

Current Projects

• Legendary Valley Trails
  Funding Needed: $295,300
  Many of the most popular trails in Yosemite Valley are being loved to death. With particular attention to the Upper Yosemite Fall Trail, this project will complete technical rock work repair to the most frequently used historic trails in Yosemite Valley.
• California Conservation Corps Crew 2008
  Funding Needed: $495,000
  Yosemite’s 800 mile trail system provides access to the entire 1,100 square miles of the Park. Consistent stewardship is the key to preserving this irreplaceable resource. This year, CCC trail crew members will work on over 120 miles of trail in the Merced and Tuolumne River watersheds as well as on front-country trails during spring and fall.
• Youth Conservation Corps
  Funding Needed: $276,200
  The YCC has been bringing young people to work on Yosemite restoration projects for over 30 years. In 2008, The Yosemite Fund seeks to sponsor the entire YCC program, employing 35 enrollees and 10 supervisors to complete 6 trail restoration projects and a variety of other critical Park projects in campgrounds, picnic areas and other public places.
• Sentinel Boardwalk Relocation
  Funding Needed: $26,000
  The Sentinel Boardwalk allows visitors to cross a sensitive wetland near the Merced River adjacent to the Yosemite Chapel. A portion of the boardwalk is periodically submerged during spring runoff. This project will realign the north edge of the boardwalk to remove it from the seasonal flood zone.
• Trail Repair Pack Equipment Maintenance
  Funding Needed: $30,000
  Mule pack trains are the backbone of the Yosemite trail repair supply chain. The packs and other gear that secure the loads to the mules are subjected to constant wear and tear. This grant will supply materials to fabricate and repair the pack equipment used in support of the trails program.

Completed Projects
Reconstruction of portions of major trails including the Pacific Crest and John Muir trails, Lewis Creek, Yosemite Falls, Half Dome Steps and Mist trails. Construction of 1.5 miles of new bikeway in Yosemite Valley. Handicapped accessible trail improvements at Yosemite Falls, Washburn Point, Glacier Point, Happy Isles, Mariposa Grove and other locations.