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California Parks Face Limited Access Amid Storm Recovery Efforts

Memorial Day weekend in California will be marked by limited access to several parks, campgrounds, trails, and roads due to the extensive storm damage sustained during the winter season. 

As per a report, Sintia Kawasaki-Yee, a spokeswoman for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, commented, “It is sad that we don’t have all areas accessible to the public, but there are things to do in the parks. It’s just going to be a smaller area for people to enjoy this holiday.”

Recovery efforts from this historic winter season are still underway, with potential limitations extending through the summer.

Visitors to Sequoia National Park, a popular destination for Angelenos, will find most areas closed. Only the foothills area, between the entrance and Hospital Rock, will be open, with access to lower-elevation campgrounds, trails, and waterfalls. 

Park officials warn that ongoing snowmelt has caused rivers and streams to rise to levels not seen in years. Access to General Sherman, the world’s largest tree, is closed. However, park officials recommend visiting Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park to see sequoias and snow, including the second-largest tree, General Grant.

Sections of Highway 180 and Highway 198 are closed due to severe road damage from the storms, causing restrictions in visiting parks and giant sequoias, including General Sherman. Early June is the estimated reopening timeframe for these highways. 

Additionally, several Southern California parks remain partially closed due to storm damage, such as Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County and Emma Wood and San Buenaventura state beaches in Ventura County.

For those planning a visit to any of the affected areas during Memorial Day weekend, it is essential to consider safety. Visitors should check current conditions, stay on designated trails, and follow any posted signage. To help plan trips, the article suggests alternative outdoor activities or destinations in California that are not affected by storm damage, such as other state or national parks, recreational areas, or scenic routes.

The storm damage to parks and trails also has a significant ecological impact. Recovery efforts aim to not only restore the parks but also protect both visitors and the natural environment. With that in mind, community involvement and volunteering opportunities with park services, conservation organizations, or local agencies can help with the recovery efforts in the affected areas.

As California gears up for Memorial Day weekend, it is vital to understand the challenges posed by the storm damage while planning trips and outdoor activities. By staying informed, adhering to safety guidelines, and considering alternative activities and destinations, visitors can still enjoy the natural beauty of California while respecting the ongoing recovery efforts.

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Hi, you might find this article from Modern Campground interesting: California Parks Face Limited Access Amid Storm Recovery Efforts! This is the link: https://moderncampground.com/usa/california/california-parks-face-limited-access-amid-storm-recovery-efforts/