Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

APPENDIX H 

SCENIC VISTA MANAGEMENT IN THE 

MERCED RIVER CORRIDOR 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-1 

APPENDIX H 

SCENIC VISTA MANAGEMENT IN THE 

MERCED RIVER CORRIDOR 

The Scenic Vista Management Plan for Yosemite National Park Environmental Assessment (SVMP), 

completed in 2010, inventoried 181 potential vista points throughout the park, outside of wilderness 

and chiefly along the major roads. The plan outlined a programmatic framework for prioritizing and 

prescribing the work to be completed at each of the viewpoints necessary to obtain a desirable vista. 

The 2010 Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) stipulates that the final determination of vista 

points for the Merced Wild and Scenic River corridor would be deferred to the comprehensive river 

management plan completion. Once an alternative has been selected in a Record of Decision, the 

management actions included in that selected alternative will be incorporated into the Merced River 

Plan to guide the future management of scenic values in the Merced River corridor. 

This approach captures the programmatic direction, methods outlined in the SVMP, and analyzes the 

viewpoints from the perspective of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act mandate to protect and enhance the 

values of the Merced Wild and Scenic River. 

The scenery along the Merced River—considered an outstandingly remarkable value—offers 

outstanding views of the river valley, adjacent meadows, glaciated geology and hanging valleys. The 

locations where these tremendous views intersect with frequent visitation are often along roads and 

near historic buildings. As originally inventoried in the SVMP, eighty-three of these sites were located 

in, or adjacent to the Wild and Scenic River corridor of the Merced River. Upon analyzing these vista 

locations within the context of the Merced River Plan and considerations for river values (including 

free flow, water quality, and outstandingly remarkable values), thirty-two of these sites were removed 

from consideration. Reasons for removal range from sites encroaching on declared Wilderness areas, 

removal of the viewing area under proposed actions of the MRP, or sites being very similar to other 

nearby vistas. The inventory of sites includes analysis of each site with a Visual Resource Assessment 

(VRA) score that looks at a vista site with factors such as current infrastructure, numbers of scenic 

icons and quality of the view, and quantifies them for comparison. The sites are then prioritized by 

VRA score as high, medium or low based on their score up to eighteen. Low priority sites, scoring 

seven and below, are also be removed from consideration. The remaining sites are summarized and the 

proposed work actions analyzed regarding how the management of scenic vistas will take place as 

described under the Scenic Vista Management Plan, and comply with Merced River Plan to protect and 

enhance river values. As stated in the SVMP, the goal is not to remove all trees within a vista, but to 

remove a minimal number in order to allow a view, retain a natural appearance, and with the least 

invasive management practicable. 

This appendix describes the impact over the projected life, typically twenty years for management 

plans, of the MRP. Some vistas are currently open, but will likely be encroached during this time 

frame, given past trends of conifer growth. The descriptions of estimated impact of trees removed 

during initial management for each vista point are by species and size as they are in 2012. Trees less 

than 6” diameter at breast height (dbh) can be removed in order to maintain a vista without additional 
APPENDIX H 

H-2 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

compliance, and are not included in the estimates. If more trees than estimated over 6” dbh need to be 

removed, additional compliance will need to be completed. 

Following tree removal, the work area will be revegetated with native vegetation, if necessary, the soil 

will be decompacted, and the area recontoured. Stumps must remain in place to provide soil stability. 

In order to preserve the natural aesthetic, stumps will be flush cut and buried. Seed collection and 

plant salvage will occur as necessary for revegetation after site work and tree removal are complete. An 

annual work plan will continue to be done that will describe the specific actions involved in initial 

management of removing larger trees, and maintenance involving revegetation or removing trees 

under 6” dbh. Approximately ten to twenty vista points will be done each year. This work plan will be 

posted on-line as described in the SVMP. 

In the initial management of a vista, some downed trees may be left, but this will generally be no more 

than one tree in twenty. Trees which are removed will be used for traditional cultural purposes, 

chipped, left as woody debris in the river, or hauled away. If chipped, wood chips would remain on site 

(outside of meadows) as mulch (no more than 1 inch deep). The small diameter vegetation is to be 

lopped and scattered such that any saw marks are not visible from the vista point. Remaining woody 

debris which maybe left will depend on the conditions at the time. Woody debris left on site must 

adhere to the Fire Management Plan guidelines of tons per acre of downed fuel levels. 

Maintaining these viewpoints will further enhance the visitor’s recreation enjoyment and enhance 

their connection to the natural world along the Merced River. At the same time, management of scenic 

vistas at these select locations must protect biological, cultural values (archeological sites and places of 

significance to American Indian tribes and groups), water quality, and the free-flowing condition of 

the river. Management will involve removal of trees, and when completed following careful review and 

attention to ORV protection will ensure that all other biological and cultural values are minimally 

affected. The outstandingly scenery will continue to evolve in response to natural ecological processes. 

Providing and maintaining viewing areas at existing infrastructure (such as roadside turnouts) lessens 

the frequency of visitors creating or using social trails in order to see a view that is referred to in 

existing signs and publications. Many park visitors’ (87%) primary purpose when visiting the park is to 

take a scenic drive (Littlejohn et al 2006). Removing a limited number of trees in locations which 

support visitor use will give visitors an incentive to remain on durable surfaces and therefore not tread 

in more sensitive areas. Through visitors remaining on durable surfaces, the environment will be better 

protected and biological resources will be enhanced. Vista management in the Merced WSR corridor 

should reestablish vistas that once existed, without degrading other outstandingly remarkable values. 

What follows is a description of the work plan for each of the viewpoints established for the Merced 

River corridor. Each work plan provides 

 A description of the viewpoint and its specific location 

 Ecological considerations, particularly as they pertain to vegetation 

 A summary of the trees greater than 6” dbh that currently are, or potentially could, obscure the 

vista over the next twenty years. Trees are described by species and size dbh as of 2012. 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-3 

Figure H-1: Cascade Falls. NPS 2009 

RES-3-002 

Cascade Falls Viewpoint 

(8-Medium) 

Location: El Portal Road 

View: Cascade Falls 

Cascade Falls is located three miles east of 

the Arch Rock entrance station. The falls 

can be viewed from a formal viewing point 

located adjacent to the Cascade Falls 

parking area. The current view of the falls is 

narrow and should be opened to allow 

better visibility. Mature trees and shrubs in 

front of the viewing area and falls could 

obscure the view in the near future. This 

site contains mature California Black Oak, 

which is a species that will not be removed 

in a medium value vista. The oaks are 

growing between the viewing area and the 

waterfall, but they are unlikely to become 

much taller, and as a result will likely 

obscure only the bottom of the falls. 

The El Portal Road was constructed in 1908, but turnouts were not added until 1932. Trees established 

before 1932 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 35. This site rated 

a medium priority with an average VRA score of 8 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 1 1 1 - 3 

Cedar 6 - - 1 7 

Live Oak - 1 1 

Red Fir 3 - - - 3 

Ceanothus (shrub) Trim 1 

Total 14 
APPENDIX H 

H-4 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-2: Bridalveil Fall Approach. NPS 2009 

RES-2-120 

Bridalveil Fall Approach 

(10.25-High) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: Bridalveil Falls 

The Bridalveil Fall Approach is located on 

Southside Drive, 0.30 miles east of Pohono 

Bridge. Southside Drive heads directly to 

the falls before turning to the east at 

Bridalveil Meadow. This is one of the first 

waterfalls visitors see when entering the 

Yosemite Valley. The current view of the 

fall is very narrow and can only be seen 

along a brief segment of road. Further 

encroachment of mature trees from the 

sides of the road could block the view 

completely. This site contains a large 

number of cedar, fir and ponderosa 

saplings/seedlings that would need to be 

removed in the initial management of the site. 

The road in its current configuration was completed in 1928. Trees established before 1928 should not 

be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 152. This site 

rated a high priority with an average VRA score of 10.25 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 6 1 1 2 10 

Cedar 27, Trim 3 - - - 27 

Fir 10 1 - - 11 

Live Oak 2 1 - - 3 

Dogwood 1 - - - 1 

Total 52 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-5 

Figure H-3: Roosevelt Turnout. NPS 2009 

RES-2-119 

Roosevelt Turnout 

(10.5-High) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: Bridalveil Falls 

The Roosevelt Turnout is located 0.45 miles 

east Pohono Bridge. The focal point of the 

Roosevelt Turnout is Bridalveil Falls with a 

portion of Bridalveil meadow in the 

foreground. This sign commemorates the 

general location of where John Muir and 

Theodore Roosevelt camped in 1903. The 

current view is completely obscured by 

many conifers going back to the Wawona 

Road. A number of trees less than 6” dbh 

would also be removed during initial 

management of the site. 

The road in its current configuration was 

completed in 1928. Trees established before 

1928 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 156. This site 

rated a high priority with an average VRA score of 10.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - 11 14 4 1 30 

Cedar 76 11 8 2 1 98 

Fir 23 3 1 1 - 28 

Total 156 
APPENDIX H 

H-6 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-4: Tunnel View. NPS 2009 

RES-2-127 

Tunnel View 

(15.2-High) 

Location: Wawona Road 

View: Yosemite Valley

Tunnel View is located east of the Wawona 

Tunnel, 1.5 miles southwest from the 

intersection of Southside Drive and 

Wawona Road. Tunnel View is one of the 

most popular vistas in the park with a 

magnificent panoramic view of the 

Yosemite Valley and iconic natural 

landmarks such as Bridalveil Fall, El 

Capitan, and Half Dome. It is part of the 

Yosemite Road Guide (W2). The area was 

rehabilitated and the vista opened in 2008. 

There are no trees currently obscuring the 

vista, although some trees could obscure the 

view in the future. This site should be 

monitored and the trees listed below could 

be removed if they further obscure the view in the future. 

Wawona Tunnel was constructed in 1933. Trees established before 1933 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 49. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 15.2 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh TOTAL 

Cedar 5 - 5 

Ponderosa 2 1 3 

Total 8 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-7 

Figure H-5: Bridalveil Straight. NPS 2009 

RES-2-078 

Bridalveil Straight 

interpretive sign 

(13-High) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: Bridalveil Falls 

The Bridalveil Straight interpretive sign is located 

0.25 miles east of the intersection of Southside 

Drive and Wawona Road. This vista is listed as a 

contributing feature to the Yosemite Valley 

Historic District. The focal point of the vista to be 

managed is Bridalveil Fall to the south. This 

location also has spectacular view of El Capitan to 

the east, over California Black Oaks. It is unlikely 

the oak trees will grow tall enough to obscure the 

view to El Capitan, but this area should also be 

monitored in the future for conifer 

encroachment. 

The road in its current configuration was constructed in 1928. Trees established before 1928 should 

not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 38. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 13 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - 3 1 - 4 

Cedar 8 31 1 5 45 

Fir - 3 - 3 6 

Black Oak Trim 

Total 55 
APPENDIX H 

H-8 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-6: Bridalveil Fall Foot Bridge. NPS 2009 

RES-2-075 

Bridalveil Fall Foot Bridge 

(7.25-Medium) 

Location: Bridalveil Trail 

View: Bridalveil Fall 

The Bridalveil Fall Foot Bridge is located on the 

Bridalveil Fall trail at the base of the fall. This 

vista is from one of three bridges built in 1913 at 

the waterfall. These are the oldest remaining 

bridges in the valley. The intention in managing 

this vista is not to create a broad view, but a 

focused and intimate view of the fall. 

Trees established before 1913 should not be 

removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 37. This 

site rated a medium priority with an average VRA 

score of 7.25 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Douglas fir 1 - - 2 3 

Black Oak Trim 

Live Oak - 2 - - 2 

Cedar - - 1 - 1 

Total 6 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-9 

Figure H-7: Cathedral Spires. NPS 2012 

RES-2-121 

Cathedral Spires Turnout 

(7.5-Medium) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: Cathedral Spires and Rock 

The Cathedral Spires Turnout on Southside 

Drive is located 1.3 miles east of the Wawona 

Road and Southside Drive intersection. This 

vista is listed as a contributing feature of the 

Yosemite Valley Historic District. 

The Valley Loop Road in its current 

configuration was constructed in 1928. 

Trees established before 1928 should not be 

removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 225. 

This site rated a medium priority with an 

average VRA score of 7.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Cedar 5 - 6 1 - 12 

Douglas Fir - 6 1 - 1 8 

Ponderosa - 1 - - - 1 

Total 21 
APPENDIX H 

H-10 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-8: Cathedral Beach Parking. NPS 2012 

RES-2-158 

Cathedral Beach Parking 

(9.75-Medium) 

View: Three Brothers 

The Cathedral Beach Parking area is located on 

Southside Drive 0.25 miles east of the 

El Capitan Crossover. 

This vista is located on the terrace above the 

restroom. There were two vistas inventoried 

from this area, this one, and another from the 

beach. The recommendation is to manage the 

vista from this location and not the vista from 

the beach. The view to Three Brothers is 

similar, and new parking could be built in this 

location to better accommodate visitors. Trees 

established before 1928 should not be removed 

when managing this vista. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 226. This site 

rated a medium priority with an average VRA score of 9.75 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 6 2 5 9 2 24 

Cedar 42 11 3 9 - 65 

Fir 1 2 1 - - 4 

Black Oak - 1 - - - 1 

Total 94 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-11 

Figure H-10: El Capitan Postage Stamp. NPS 2009 

RES-2-091 

El Capitan Postage Stamp Turnout 

(9.5-Medium) 

Location: Northside Drive 

View: El Capitan, Merced River 

The El Capitan Postage Stamp Turnout is located 

on Southside Drive 0.45 miles east of the 

El Capitan Drive intersection. The history of this 

vista began in 1868 when Carlton Watkins 

captured a photograph of El Capitan a few feet 

from the current turnout in 1868. This photograph 

was used in a postage stamp in 1934. It was a 

popular vista at one time, but is now almost 

completely obscured with conifers. There are a 

large number of dead trees in the area and the 

intention is to remove the smaller trees that have 

less habitat value and also reduce the fuel load. 

Several large deciduous riparian trees partially 

obscure the view, but will not be removed for vista 

management because of their high habitat potential. 

The road was completed in 1928, so trees established before then should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 3. This site rated a 

medium priority with an average VRA score of 9.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Cedar 53 (28?) 4 4 9 3 73 

Ponderosa 1 4 5 8 4 22 

Live Oak 1 - - - - 1 

Total 96 

SNAGS TO REMAIN

Tree Species <12” dbh <20”dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Cedar 1 1 

Oak 1 1 2 

Willow 2 2 

Total 5 

SNAGS TO REMOVE

Tree Species <12” dbh TOTAL 

Cedar 15 15 

Total 15 
APPENDIX H 

H-12 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-11: Ferry Bend. NPS 2009 

RES-2-092 

Ferry Bend Turnout 

(12-High) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: El Capitan, Merced River 

Ferry Bend Turnout is located on Southside Drive 

1.17 miles east of the El Capitan Road 

intersection. The turnout is near where Ira 

Folsom began a ferry in 1871 to cross the Merced. 

The vista of the river and El Capitan is a 

contributing feature to the Yosemite Valley 

Historic District. The vista should be managed 

from the turnout to allow people to enjoy the 

view with minimal damage to the vegetation. 

Trees established before 1928 should not be 

removed from this location for vista management. 

This site has a considerable number of snags from a managed burn in 2004. The area surveyed is 

approximately 4 acres. The intention is to remove snags less than 12” dbh, and retain any larger snags. 

This would retain 23 snags between 20” and 40” dbh, and remove 53 snags less than 12” dbh. There 

would also be a considerable number of cedar saplings and trees less than 6” dbh removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 44. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 12 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree 

Species 

<12” 

dbh 

<20” 

dbh 

<30” 

dbh 

<40” 

dbh 

<50” 

dbh 

<60” 

dbh 

<70” 

dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 6 23 59 62 14 3 3 170 

Cedar 41 56 30 21 5 - 1 154 

Fir - 1 6 2 2 1 - 12 

Total 336 

SNAGS TO REMOVE

Tree Species <12” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa Snag 4 4 

Cedar Snag 48 48 

Fir Snag 1 1 

Total 53 

SNAGS TO RETAIN

Tree Species <20” dbh <30” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa Snag 3 - 3 

Cedar Snag 17 3 20 

Total 23 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-13 

Figure H-12: Sentinel Beach. NPS 2009 

RES-2-115 

Sentinel Beach Picnic Area 

(11.25-High) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: Sentinel Rock 

Sentinel Beach is adjacent to the Sentinel 

Beach picnic area located off of Southside 

Drive 1.7 miles east of the intersection of 

El Capitan Road. This is a popular destination 

for picnicking, and is also the pullout and 

shuttle stop for raft rentals. Trees established 

before 1928 should not be removed from this 

location. 

An alternative picnic and parking area is 

considered under the MRP at the location 

initially surveyed. It is recommended that this 

site is managed within the new developed area 

because it would create a better, more durable 

platform for visitors’ to enjoy the vista. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 22. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 11.25 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 1 3 7 11 

Cedar - 5 5 10 

Total 21 
APPENDIX H 

H-14 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-13: Four Mile Trailhead. NPS 2009 

Figure H-14: Swinging Bridge. NPS 2009 

RES-2-093 

Four Mile Trailhead 

(10.5-High) 

Location: Northside Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls 

The Four Mile Trail Trailhead is located on 

Southside Drive 1.75 miles east of the El Capitan 

Crossover. The trail was completed in 1872, 

although some alteration in the trail took place in 

the 1920s, and the trailhead was likely rerouted at 

that time. 

The road in its current configuration was 

completed in 1928. Therefore trees established 

before 1928 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 32. This 

site rated a high priority with an average VRA 

score of 10.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh TOTAL 

Cedar 12 9 3 24 

Total 24 

RES-2-126 

Swinging Bridge 

(11.5-High) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls, Merced River 

The Swinging Bridge view point is located within 

the Swinging Bridge picnic area. The picnic area 

is located two miles east of El Capitan Crossover. 

There has been a footbridge in this location since 

1938. An older bridge 200 feet downstream was 

destroyed in a flood which resulted in the 

construction of the 1938 bridge. The current 

structure was built in 1966. 

Vista should be monitored and maintained, but 

no removal of trees larger than 6” dbh is 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-15 

Figure H-15: Sentinel Meadow. NPS 2012 

recommended. Trees that are partially obscuring the lower falls are riparian deciduous trees that shade 

the river and have high habitat potential. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 23. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 11.5 out of 18. 

RES-2-118 

Sentinel Meadow Boardwalk 

(13.5-High) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls, Merced River

The Sentinel Meadow Boardwalk is located 

on Southside drive 2.3 miles east of the 

El Capitan Crossover. Views from Sentinel 

Meadow are listed as contributing features in 

the Yosemite Valley Historic District. The 

vista is above the south bank of the Merced 

River, looking to Yosemite Falls. Trees to be 

removed are north of the river. No riparian 

species are to be removed. Although this 

meadow has numerous examples of historic 

photographs from the 19th century, the year 

of 1928 is a conservative date that can 

establish the Southside Drive and turnouts in 

its present location as an intended vista point. 

Trees established before 1928 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 6. This site rated a 

high priority with an average VRA score of 13.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 40 3 4 47 

Cedar 5 6 - 11 

Fir - 7 - 7 

Total 65 
APPENDIX H 

H-16 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-16: Chapel. NPS 2009 

RES-2-080 

Yosemite Valley Chapel 

(10.5-High) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls 

The Yosemite Valley Chapel is located on 

Southside Drive 2.5 Miles east of the El Capitan 

Crossover. The Chapel is the oldest building in 

the Valley. It was moved to its present location in 

1901, but was originally built in 1879. There are 

some trees to remove in the immediate 

foreground, but most of the trees are taller 

conifers about 300 m away, across the meadow, 

that obscure the lower fall. Trees established 

before 1901 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 20. This 

site rated a high priority with an average VRA 

score of 10.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 5 1 1 7 

Cedar 2 5 1 8 

Total 15 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-17 

Figure H-17: Old Hutchings View. NPS 2009 

RES-2-107 

Old Hutchings View 

(8.75-Medium)

Location: Southside Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls, Merced River 

Old Hutchings View is located adjacent to the 

southwest corner of Sentinel Bridge. This vista 

looks across the Merced River to Yosemite Falls. 

This is the view that originated from the 

Hutchings House (also called the Upper Hotel) 

that was across Southside Drive. The original 

hotel began in 1859, and was added onto during 

the tenure of James Hutchings. The current 

Sentinel Bridge was built in 1994, a replacement to 

a series of bridges that have been in this general 

location. A conservative date for the current 

location of the vista is 1928 with the layout of 

Southside Drive. Trees established before this 

time should not be removed. There are numerous conifer saplings that will also be removed during 

initial management of the site. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 157. This site 

rated a medium priority with an average VRA score of 8.75 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <20” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 17 - 17 

Cedar - 1 1 

Total 18 
APPENDIX H 

H-18 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-18: Sentinel Bridge. NPS 2009 

RES-2-116 

Sentinel Bridge 

(13.5-High) 

Location: Sentinel Drive 

View: Half Dome, Merced River 

The Sentinel Bridge is located at the intersection 

of Southside drive and Sentinel Drive. The bridge 

gives visitors views of Half Dome over the Merced 

River, and filtered views of the Upper Yosemite 

Falls to the west. The view of Half Dome in the 

reflected light of sunset over the river has been 

noted as being particularly dramatic. The current 

bridge was constructed in 1994, although this is 

likely the area of the first bridge over the Merced 

River in the Valley beginning in the 1860s. The 

state of California replaced James Hutching’s 

timber bridge (that had replaced a previous 

bridge) with a steel bridge in 1878. This bridge 

was then replaced with a concrete span in 1919, and expanded in 1960. A conservative, definitive year 

to reference in the management of the vista is 1878, with the first steel bridge. Therefore any tree 

established before 1878 should not be removed. 

Because of the vista’s close ties to the river, it should be noted that no deciduous riparian species, or 

trees overhanging the river will be removed. There are numerous conifer saplings that should also be 

removed during the initial management of the vista. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 28. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 13.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - 11 23 5 8 47 

Cedar 12 1 - - - 13 

Total 60 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-19 

Figure H-19: Sentinel Bridge Parking. NPS 2009 

RES-2-117 

Sentinel Bridge Parking 

(11.5-High) 

Location: Sentinel Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls 

The Sentinel Bridge Parking area is located on 

the northern side of the Merced River adjacent 

to Sentinel Bridge on Sentinel Drive. 

The current Sentinel Bridge Drive was 

constructed in 1956, bypassing the previous road 

from the previous bridge, across Cook’s 

Meadow, to the falls. The vista dates to the time 

of the construction of the bridges in this 

location, and should be considered from the 

period of 1878. The current parking area, bus 

stop and walkways provide excellent 

opportunity to view Cook’s Meadow and 

Yosemite Falls. The main vista from this location 

is yosemite falls across Cook’s meadow. The view of the meadow is as important as the view of the 

waterfall, and as a result the trees recommended for removal are conifers encroaching on the meadow. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 12. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 11.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 6 10 20 13 12 61 

Cedar - - 10 1 - 11 

Total 72 
APPENDIX H 

H-20 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-20: Housekeeping Bridge. NPS 2009 

RES-2-097 

Housekeeping Bridge 

(8-Medium) 

Location: Housekeeping Camp 

View: Yosemite Falls, Merced River 

The Housekeeping Bridge over the Merced River 

is adjacent to the Housekeeping Camp, located a 

half mile east of Sentinel Bridge. This bridge was 

constructed in 1929 and is a contributing 

structure to the Yosemite Valley Historic 

District. The primary vista is of Yosemite Falls, 

over the Merced River, There are a limited 

number of ponderosa pines in the middle 

ground, approximately 500 meters downstream 

that could grow taller and block the view in the 

future. It is recommended to monitor and 

manage this vista and remove the trees if 

necessary in the future. No trees established 

before 1929 should be removed. 

This vista is similar to the nearby vista inventoried at Housekeeping Beach. It is recommended to 

manage the bridge vista, and not the beach vista, because management actions would be identical. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 92. This site rated 

a medium priority with an average VRA score of 8 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 6 1 7 

Total 7 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-21 

Figure H-23: Curry Amphitheater. NPS 2012 

RES-2-084 

Curry Amphitheater 

(9.5-Medium) 

Location: Curry Village 

View: Half Dome 

The Curry Amphitheater is located within 

Curry Village. 

The current structure was built in 1953, 

although an amphitheater has been in this 

location since 1915. Views of Half Dome from 

within Curry Village are contributing vistas in 

the Yosemite Valley Historic District and the 

amphitheater is the most public area with a 

view that can be reestablished with the removal 

of a small number of trees. Trees established 

before 1915 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 46. This 

site rated a medium priority with an average 

VRA score of 9.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <20” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - 2 2 

Fir 1 - 1 

Cedar - 1 1 

Total 4 
APPENDIX H 

H-22 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-25: Stoneman Bridge. NPS 2012 

Figure H-24: Curry Village Parking. NPS 2012 

RES-2-086 

Curry Village Parking 

(9.75-Medium) 

Curry Village 

View: Half Dome 

The Curry Village Parking area is located 

adjacent to Curry Village. The parking lot was 

constructed in 1929 and was originally used as 

an ice skating rink during the winter months. 

There are a number of conifers at the east end 

of the lot that could block the view of Half 

Dome in the future, removal should be 

considered at that time. Trees established 

before 1929 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 27. 

This site rated a medium priority with an 

average VRA score of 9.75 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <20” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - 24 24 

Cedar 6 - 6 

Total 30 

RES-2-122 

Stoneman Bridge 

(12-High) 

Northside Drive 

View: North Dome, Merced River, 

Royal Arches 

The Stoneman Bridge is on Northside Drive 

north of Curry Village. Stoneman Bridge was 

constructed in 1932 Trees established before 

1932 should not be removed. 

The Stoneman Bridge site should be 

monitored and maintained, At this time, trees 

which are partially obscuring the vista are 

overhanging the river and providing shade to 

river habitat. It is unlikely that trees further 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-23 

Figure H-26: Stoneman Meadow. NPS 2012 

away would grow tall enough to cover the view of North Dome. The bridge is considered for removal. 

If the bridge is removed, the vista should not be maintained in the future. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 25. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 12 out of 18. 

RES-2-123 

Stoneman Meadow Boardwalk 

(13.5-High) 

Location: Happy Isle Loop Road 

View: North Dome, Royal Arches, Washingtons Column, Stoneman Meadow 

The Stoneman Meadow boardwalk is located at 

the intersection of Happy Isles Loop Road and 

Curry Village Road. The boardwalk gives 

visitors a panoramic view of the meadow and 

many other significant Yosemite landmarks 

such as Glacier Point, North Dome, Royal 

Arches, and Washington’s Column. Half Dome 

can be seen in the distance to the east and 

Yosemite Falls can be seen in the distance to the 

west. The primary vista to manage at this site is 

the view to North Dome, Royal Arches and 

Washington’s Column where conifers have 

encroached onto the edge of the meadow. The 

Happy Isles Loop was constructed in 1929 and 

trees established before 1929 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 6. This site rated a 

high priority with an average VRA score of 13.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 19 16 46 13 94 

Cedar 36 12 15 3 66 

Total 160 
APPENDIX H 

H-24 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-27: Clark’s Bridge. NPS 2012 

Figure H-28: Happy Isles Bridge. NPS 2012 

RES-2-082 

Clarks Bridge 

(8-Medium) 

Location: Happy Isle Loop Road 

View: Yosemite Falls 

Clarks Bridge is west of the Concessioner 

Stables on Happy Isles Loop Road. It is a distant 

vista of Yosemite Falls down the Merced River. 

Large trees in the middle ground up to 600 

meters away are recommended for removal. 

Clarks Bridge was constructed in 1928, so trees 

established before 1928 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 7. This 

site rated a medium priority with an average 

VRA score of 8 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - 6 14 17 2 39 

Cedar 11 5 1 4 - 21 

Total 60 

RES-2-094 

Happy Isles Bridge 

(8.5-Medium) 

Location: Happy Isles Loop Road 

View: North Dome, Merced River 

The Happy Isles Bridge is at the southeast point 

of Happy Isles Loop Road. Happy Isles Bridge 

was constructed in 1929, so trees established 

before 1929 should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 14. This 

site rated a medium priority with an average 

VRA score of 8.5 out of 18. 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-25 

Figure H-29: Illilouette View. NPS 2009 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - - - 1 1 

Cedar 8 2 - - 10 

Fir 11 2 1 3 17 

Total 28 

RES-2-100 

Illilouette View 

(8.25-Medium) 

Location: Mist Trail 

View: Illilouette Falls 

Illilouette View is located on the Mist Trail 

between the trailhead at Happy Isles and the 

Vernal Falls Bridge. The trail on the south side 

of the river was built in 1885 by George 

Anderson, and reworked by the Park Service in 

1928. 

The vista is from a viewing area to Illilouette 

Falls. The view is almost completely blocked. 

The trees recommended for removal are on the 

opposite bank of the river. No trees should be 

removed that overhang the river, or established 

before 1928. No actions in wilderness areas will 

occur. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 30. This site rated 

a medium priority with an average VRA score of 8.25 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Cedar - - 1 - 1 2 

Fir 4 6 9 4 - 23 

Total 25 
APPENDIX H 

H-26 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-30: Vernal Fall Foot Bridge. NPS 2009 

Figure H-33: Ahwahnee Lounge. NPS 2012 

RES-2-130 

Vernal Fall Foot Bridge 

(7.25-Medium) 

Location: Mist Trail 

View: Vernal Falls 

The Vernal Fall Foot Bridge is located on the mist 

trail approximately 0.75 miles from the Mist Trail 

trailhead. There has been a bridge near the base of 

the fall since one was constructed by the state of 

California in 1885. At present, there are conifers 

encroaching from the north, but these are within 

the Wilderness boundary, which is about 25 

meters upstream from the bridge. No trees larger 

than 6” dbh are recommended for removal. This 

site should be monitored and maintained. There 

are small maple trees, outside of Wilderness, near 

the bridge that could be trimmed in the future to 

preserve a view to the fall. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 29. This site rated 

a medium priority with an average VRA score of 7.25 out of 18. 

RES-2-069 

Ahwahnee Lounge 

(11.25-High) 

Location: Ahwahnee Hotel, Royal Arches, North Dome, Washington’s Column 

View: Half Dome 

The Ahwahnee Dining Lounge is located within 

the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, a National 

Historic Landmark. The Ahwahnee Hotel was 

constructed in 1927 and the Lounge was sited to 

be a viewing lounge to the scenic wonders of 

Yosemite. Many areas of the hotel were aligned 

to take full and dramatic effect of the scenery. 

One of the dramatic views that have been 

obscured by conifers is to Half Dome from the 

Lounge. Trees in the middle ground up to 

250 meters from the building are recommended 

for removal. Trees established before 1927 

should not be removed for vista management. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 159. This site 

rated a high priority with an average VRA score of 11.25 out of 18. 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-27 

Figure H-31: Ahwahnee Winter Club Room. NPS 2012 

Figure H-32: Ahwahnee Dining Room. NPS 2009 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh <60” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 26 6 27 39 5 2 94 

Cedar 45 66 10 - 1 - 122 

Total 216 

RES-2-073 

Ahwahnee Winter Club Room 

(9.5-Medium) 

Location: Ahwahnee Hotel 

View: Royal Arches, North Dome, Washington’s Column, Half Dome 

This vista is next to the Great Lounge, and falls 

within the same viewing corridor. This site 

should be monitored, and action should not be 

taken to block this view. No additional action 

should be taken at this location outside of 

managing the Ahwahnee Lounge vista. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 228. 

This site rated a medium priority with an 

average VRA score of 9.5 out of 18. 

RES-2-068 

Ahwahnee Dining Room 

(10.25-High) 

Location: Ahwahnee Hotel 

View: Yosemite Falls 

The Ahwahnee Dining Room is within the 

historic Ahwahnee Hotel, a National Landmark. 

The large window at the end of the grand hall 

looks west to Yosemite Falls. It was intended to 

frame the dramatic view for the guests while 

dining. 

The Ahwahnee Hotel was constructed in 1927, 

so trees established before this time should not 

be removed. This is the only vista which 

recommends removing California Black Oak. 

These trees are obscuring a view in which there 

is little opportunity for a viewer to move 
APPENDIX H 

H-28 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-34: Ahwahnee Solarium. NPS 2009 

around. Trimming rather than removing would improve the current vista, but would likely need to be 

trimmed on an annual basis. Trees in the middle ground up to 500 meters from the window are 

recommended for removal. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 161. This site 

rated a high priority with an average VRA score of 10.25 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 56 26 48 23 3 156 

Cedar 7 15 15 7 1 45 

Black Oak 1 - 1 - - 2 

Live Oak 4 - - - - 4 

Total 207 

RES-2-072 

Ahwahnee Solarium 

(8.75-Medium) 

Ahwahnee Hotel 

View: Glacier Point 

The Ahwahnee Solarium is at located at the 

south end of the Ahwahnee Hotel. The 

Ahwahnee Hotel was constructed in 1927, so no 

tree established before 1927 should be removed. 

Trees in the middle ground up to 300 meters 

from the building are recommended for 

removal. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 160. This 

site rated a medium priority with an average 

VRA score of 8.75 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh <60” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 18 13 10 27 10 - 78 

Cedar 14 29 5 4 1 1 54 

Total 132 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-29 

Figure H-35: Ahwahnee Hotel Front Lawn. NPS 

2009

Figure H-37: Ahwahnee Meadow. NPS 2012 

RES-2-157 

Ahwahnee Hotel, front lawn 

(10.25-High) 

Location: Ahwahnee Hotel 

View: Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point 

The Ahwahnee Hotel Front Lawn is located at 

the southern end of the hotel. The vista is from 

the interpretive sign, looking toward Yosemite 

Falls. 

The Ahwahnee Hotel was constructed in 1927, 

so no tree established before this time should be 

removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 16. This 

site rated a high priority with an average VRA 

score of 10.25 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 8 1 1 3 1 14 

Cedar - 1 - 1 - 2 

Alder - trim - 1 - 1 

Total 17 

RES-2-071 

Ahwahnee Meadow 

Peeling Domes Sign 

(11.5-High) 

Location: Northside Drive 

View: North Dome, Royal Arches, Washington’s 

Column, Half Dome 

The Ahwahnee Meadow is located on Northside 

Drive 0.5 miles from the intersection of Southside 

Drive. Northside Drive in its current configuration 

was constructed in 1928, so no trees established 

before this time should be removed. Removing this 

segment of Northside Drive is considered under 

the Merced River Plan. If the segment is removed, 

and no planned walkway replaces it in this area, 

the vista should not be monitored or maintained. 
APPENDIX H 

H-30 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-38: Church Bowl Picnic Area. NPS 2012 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 227 This site 

rated a high priority with an average VRA score of 11.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 4 4 

Total 4 

RES-2-081 

Church Bowl Picnic Area 

(12-High) 

Location: Ahwahnee Drive 

View: Half Dome 

The Church Bowl Picnic Area is located on 

Ahwahnee Drive 0.37 miles west of the 

Ahwahnee Hotel. A coach road along the north 

side of the valley was constructed in 1872, 

although the alignment of the current road is 

known with certainty to date from 1927. Trees 

established before this time should not be 

removed. 

The rockfall hazard zone has recently been 

updated to include an area further away from 

the cliff face. As stated in the SVMP, large trees 

help buffer the impact, and potential damage, of 

rockfall by absorbing some of the force and rock debris. Most of the trees currently obscuring the view 

are outside of the rock fall zone, on the south side of the road and not effective in protecting any 

structure. No trees on the north side of the road within the rockfall hazard zone will be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 11. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 12 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh <60” dbh TOTAL

Ponderosa 80 6 12 6 6 4 114 

Cedar 95 35 13 17 10 1 171 

Total 285 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-31 

Figure H-39: Visitor Center Benches. NPS 2012

Figure H-40: Hutchings View B. NPS 2012 

RES-2-131 

Visitor Center Benches 

(9.75-Medium) 

Location: Ahwahnee Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls 

The Visitor Center Benches are in the plaza near 

the front entrance of the Yosemite Valley 

Visitors Center. The village was established with 

the construction of the Administration Building 

and the Museum, completed in 1926. Trees 

established before this time will not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 39. This 

site rated a medium priority with an average 

VRA score of 9.75 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <30” dbh TOTAL 

Fir 3 3 

Total 3 

RES-2-099 

Hutchings View B 

(12-High) 

View: Yosemite Falls 

Location: Northside Drive 

Hutchings View B is near the Yosemite Falls 

Shuttle Stop at the Hutchings interpretive sign. 

Trees were cleared from this vista in 2004 to 

open a viewing corridor for the upper and 

lower falls, along an axis to where the 

Old Hutchings View is located. Signs 

interpreting Hutchings contributions were 

created and placed near Northside Drive. The 

intention of this vista is to recall the vista as it 

appeared to Hutchings in 1859, but a 

conservative year adopted at the Old Hutchings 

View is 1928, when the layout of the adjacent 

roads was finalized. Yosemite Creek is adjacent 

to the vista point so riparian species should not be removed. 
APPENDIX H 

H-32 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-41: Yosemite Falls View. NPS 2009 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 158. This site 

rated a high priority with an average VRA score of 12 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - 6 11 1 1 19 

Cedar 30 5 6 2 1 44 

Black Oak Trim 4 

Total 63 

RES-2-141 

Yosemite Falls View 

(8.75-Medium) 

Location: Northside Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls 

Yosemite Falls View is northeast of The 

Yosemite Lodge. Trees were cleared as part of 

the Yosemite Falls approach project in 2005. 

The intention in managing this vista is to 

broaden the view to minimize future 

maintenance needs of trimming, and lessening 

the alley-like appearance of the trees on the 

approach to the falls. A conservative year to 

manage the vista from is 1928, when the 

circulation of the valley was generally set. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 18. This 

site rated a medium priority with an average 

VRA score of 8.75 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - 1 8 11 2 22 

Cedar 55 4 1 4 - 64 

Fir - 2 3 2 - 7 

Total 93 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-33 

Figure H-43: Cooks Meadow. NPS 2009 

Figure H-42: Lower Falls Bridge. NPS 2009 

RES-2-104 

Lower Falls Bridge 

(10-High) 

Location: Lower Yosemite Falls Trail 

View: Yosemite Falls 

The Lower Falls Bridge is near the base of the 

Yosemite Falls at the Lower Yosemite Falls 

Overlook. The vista is predominately open, but 

there are several cedars that could restrict the 

view in the future. These trees should be 

removed if they limit the view from the bridge. 

The bridge was built in 1920 and is a 

contributing structure to the Yosemite Valley 

Historic District. Trees established prior to 1920 

should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 48. This 

site rated a high priority with an average VRA 

score of 10 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh TOTAL 

Cedar 4 2 6 

Total 6 

RES-2-083 

Cook’s Meadow, South Boardwalk 

(8-Medium) 

Location: Sentinel Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls 

The Cook’s Meadow Boardwalk is located in 

the southwest corner of Cooks Meadow. This 

vista should be monitored and maintained, but 

no management actions removing trees larger 

than 6” dbh are recommended. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 2. This 

site rated a medium priority with an average 

VRA score of 8 out of 18. 
APPENDIX H 

H-34 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-45: Yosemite Lodge Portico. NPS 2009 

Figure H-44: Superintendents Bridge. NPS 2009 

RES-2-125 

Superintendents Bridge, flood sign 

(10.75-High) 

View: North Dome, Royal Arches, Half Dome, 

Merced River

The Superintendents Bridge is a footbridge 

south of the Old Superintendents House. The 

view to Half Dome is blocked by conifers. No 

riparian species should be removed in 

management of this vista. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 47. This 

site rated a high priority with an average VRA 

score of 10.75 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa - 3 13 1 17 

Cedar 60 20 6 1 87 

Total 104 

RES-2-142 

Yosemite Lodge Portico 

(9.5-Medium) 

Location: Northside Drive 

View: Yosemite Falls 

The Yosemite Lodge Portico is in front of the 

Registration Building at Yosemite Lodge. The 

Registration building was completed in 1959. 

Trees that were established prior to 1959 should 

not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic 

Vista Management Plan as site number 19. This 

site rated a medium priority with an average 

VRA score of 9.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 5 5 

Cedar 6 6 

Total 11 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-35 

Figure H-46: Leidig Meadow, west end. NPS 2009 

RES-2-102 

Leidig Meadow, west 

(11.75-High) 

Location: Valley Loop Trail 

View: North Dome, Washington’s Column, Cathedral Arches, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock 

The vista is on a trail that about 50 meters south 

of the Valley Loop trail at the west end of 

Leidig Meadow, about 1 mile west of the 

Yosemite Lodge. It is a remarkable point in 

which a visitor can see many of the Yosemite 

Valley’s incredible geologic formations from 

one location, across a large meadow. The 

intention is to remove conifers encroaching in 

the meadow. It is difficult to assign a date to 

this location. Leidig Meadow has a long history 

of use including serving as the location for a 

US Army camp when the headquarters were 

moved to the Valley in 1906. The meadow was 

fenced for grazing shortly after, and at one 

point was the location of a horse race track. A conservative year from which the vista can be managed 

is 1928, when the circulation pattern in the valley was generally set. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 31. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 11.75 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 4 5 4 6 19 

Total 19 
APPENDIX H 

H-36 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-48: Devil’s Elbow. NPS 2009 

Figure H-47: Wosky Pond. NPS 2009 

RES-2-139 

Wosky Pond 

(12.25-High)

Location: Northside Drive

View: Wosky Pond, Cathedral Rock, Cathedral Spires, Slaughterhouse Meadow 

Wosky Pond is about 2 miles west of the 

Yosemite Lodge on Northside Drive. The 

view of Cathedral Rock from Northside Drive 

is listed as a contributing vista in the Yosemite 

Valley Historical District. This is one of the 

few areas along Northside Drive that has a 

vista which is generally unobstructed. The 

intent of managing this vista is to remove the 

conifers which are encroaching on the 

meadow. There are trees to the south of the 

Meadow could obscure the Spires in the 

future. The circulation in the Valley was 

generally set in 1928 and therefore no trees 

established before this time should be 

removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 42. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 12.25 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 22 19 29 11 81 

Total 81 

RES-2-087 

Devil’s Elbow 

(9-Medium) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: El Capitan 

Devil’s Elbow is located 2.25 miles west of the 

Yosemite Lodge on Northside Drive. El Capitan 

looms over this area. It is unlikely trees will 

block the view from the trail just south of 

Northside Drive. No trees over 6” dbh should be 

removed at this time. This site should be 

monitored and maintained. 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-37 

Figure H-49: El Capitan Meadow, east end. NPS 2009 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 41. This site rated 

a medium priority with an average VRA score of 9 out of 18. 

RES-2-088 

El Capitan Meadow 

(14.5-High) 

Location: Southside Drive 

View: El Capitan 

The El Capitan Meadow vista is in the 

northeastern portion of El Capitan Meadow. 

The vista includes a large portion of the 

Yosemite Valley with iconic natural 

landmarks such as El Capitan, The Three 

Brothers, Cathedral Rocks, and the Cathedral 

Spires. The viewpoint is part of the Yosemite 

Road Guide (marker V8). Views from 

Northside Drive to El Capitan are also listed 

as a contributing vista to the Yosemite Valley 

Historical District. The Meadow is a popular 

location for visitors to watch climbers 

ascending the Yosemite Valley walls. The 

Merced River Plan proposes constructing a 

boardwalk into the meadow. If a boardwalk is built, the vista should be managed from that location. 

No trees should be removed from within the rockfall hazard zone. 

Northside Drive in its current configuration was established by 1928; therefore trees established prior 

to this date should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 33. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 14.5 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 38 29 50 35 152 

Cedar 38 38 18 - 94 

Fir - - 1 - 1 

Total 247 
APPENDIX H 

H-38 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Figure H-50: Hanging Valley, Bridalveil Fall. NPS 2009 

RES-2-076 

Hanging Valley, Bridalveil Fall 

(14-High) 

Location: Northside Drive 

View: Bridalveil Falls, Merced River 

The Hanging Valley Viewpoint is on 

Northside Drive, approximately one mile 

west of El Capitan Crossover. The viewpoint 

gives visitors views across the Merced River 

to well-known Yosemite landmarks 

including Bridalveil Falls and the Leaning 

Tower. The viewpoint is part of the 

Yosemite Road Guide (marker V10) and is a 

contributing vista to the Yosemite Valley 

Historic District. The vista looks over a 

stand of California Black Oaks. The 

intention of managing this vista is to remove 

conifers encroaching into the oaks. Several 

trees will also be removed from the upper 

bank on the north side of the Merced River. 

The current configuration of Northside Drive is in place by 1928, therefore trees established before 

this time should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 34. This site rated 

a high priority with an average VRA score of 14 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh TOTAL 

Cedar 4 4 1 9 

Ponderosa 4 5 5 14 

Total 23 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-39 

Figure H-51: Valley View. NPS 2009 

RES-2-128 

Valley View 

(16-High) 

Location: Northside Drive 

View: Yosemite Valley 

Valley View is at the west end of Northside 

Drive. This is the vista on the 2010 quarter 

from the US Mint’s “America the Beautiful” 

series. The viewpoint is part of the 

Yosemite Road Guide (marker V11) which 

describes it as being a view of the “gates” of 

Yosemite with El Capitan on the left and 

Cathedral Rocks on the right. The 

landscape of the surrounding Yosemite 

Valley is reflected in the calm water of the 

Merced River. The primary objective in 

managing the vista is to open the mostly 

obscured view of Bridalveil Fall, and to 

reduce the number of conifers encroaching 

on the meadow. There are a large number of dead trees from a controlled burn in 2007. The area from 

which trees will be removed is approximately 4 acres. There are 117 snags within this area, and of 

these, those less than 12” dbh will be removed and larger snags of greater habitat value will remain. 

Northside Drive in its current configuration was in place by 1928. Therefore trees established before 

this time should not be removed. 

The site was inventoried as part of the Scenic Vista Management Plan as site number 146. This site 

rated a high priority with an average VRA score of 16 out of 18. 

MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES OVER 6”DBH REMOVED AT THIS LOCATION

Tree Species <12” dbh <20” dbh <30” dbh <40” dbh <50” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 12 66 36 47 14 175

Cedar 102 98 73 48 6 327

Fir - 5 9 3 - 17

Total 519

SNAGS TO REMOVE

Tree Species <12” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 3 3

Cedar 102 102

Total 105

SNAGS TO REMAIN

Tree Species <20” dbh <30” dbh TOTAL 

Ponderosa 3 2 5

Cedar 7 - 7

Total 12
APPENDIX H 

H-40 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

TABLE H-1: SITES INVENTORIED, BUT NO MANAGEMENT OR MAINTENANCE ACTIONS RECOMMENDED

Code 

SVMP 

Inventory 

VRA 

score Priority Name Notes 

-- 1 12.25 HIGH Residence One relocated - MRP 

common to all 

RES-2-070 10 10.5 HIGH Ahwahnee Meadow, Northside 

Drive 

do not manage - 

similar to 227 

-- 17 12 HIGH Hutchings View A do not manage – 

similar to 158 

-- 36 10.25 HIGH Valley View, old Big Oak Flat do not manage – 

near wilderness 

RES-2-079 40 10.25 High Cathedral Beach do not manage – 

similar to 226 

RES-2-085 224 9.75 MEDIUM Curry Village Ice Skating Rink do not manage – 

not in historic 

location, proposed 

removal in MRP 

RES-2-096 26 9.75 MEDIUM Housekeeping Beach do not manage - 

similar to 92 

RES-2-110 169 9.75 MEDIUM Old Wawona Road (point 3) do not manage - 

near wilderness 

RES-2-112 164 9.75 MEDIUM Old Wawona Road (point 5) do not manage – 

near wilderness 

RES-2-077 43 9.5 MEDIUM Bridalveil Meadow Do not manage – 

duplicate 

RES-2-113 162 9.25 MEDIUM Old Wawona Road (point 6) do not manage – 

near wilderness 

RES-2-111 165 9 MEDIUM Old Wawona Road (point 4) do not manage – 

near wilderness 

-- 170 8.75 MEDIUM Old Wawona Road (point 2) do not manage – 

near wilderness 

RES-2-108 171 8.75 MEDIUM Old Wawona Road (point 1) do not manage – 

near wilderness 

RES-2-114 163 7.75 MEDIUM Old Wawona Road (point 7) do not manage – 

near wilderness 

RES-2-090 21 8.5 MEDIUM El Capitan postage stamp beach do not manage - 

similar to 3 

RES-2-140 230 0 LOW Yosemite Falls Trail do not manage - 

erroneous point 

RES-2-089 91 0 LOW El Cap Meadow, east end do not manage - 

duplicate 

RES-2-103 234 0 LOW Leidig Meadow, west end do not manage - 

duplicate 

RES-2-133 57 7 LOW Wawona Hotel do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-105 178 7 LOW Nevada Fall Bridge do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-129 180 7 LOW Vernal Fall do not manage – 

low priority score 

-- 8 7 LOW Lamon Orchard do not manage – 

low priority score 
Scenic Vista Management in the Merced River Corridor 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS H-41 

TABLE H-1: SITES INVENTORIED, BUT NO MANAGEMENT OR MAINTENANCE ACTIONS RECOMMENDED (CONTINUED) 

Code 

SVMP 

Inventory 

VRA 

score Priority Name Notes 

RES-2-124 90 7 LOW Sugar Pine Bridge do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-067 89 6.75 LOW Ahwahnee Bridge do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-074 4 6.5 LOW Black Spring do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-105 179 6.5 LOW Nevada Fall do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-101 181 6.25 LOW Lady Franklin Rock do not manage – 

low priority score 

-- 13 5.5 LOW Happy Isles, interpretive sign do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-132 56 5.25 LOW Wawona golf course, south end do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-066 59 5 LOW Texas Turnout do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-138 60 4.25 LOW Panetta's turnout do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-136 61 4.25 LOW Mosquito Creek helispot do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-137 62 4.25 LOW North of Mosquito helispot do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-134 63 4.25 LOW Chain control point, north of 

Wawona 

do not manage – 

low priority score 

RES-2-135 58 3.5 LOW Turnout north of Chilnualna Falls 

Road 

do not manage – 

low priority score