Hikers Swept from Vernal Fall in Yosemite: Reports

'1 or More' Hikers Swept from Vernal Fall in Yosemite National Park

Rangers at Yosemite National Park are conducting a search and rescue operation after receiving several reports that "one or more" hikers were swept from Vernal Fall.

The Mist trail, a three-mile hike from the valley to the top of the falls, is currently closed. The Mist Trail is one of the deadliest areas in Yosemite, due to the deceptively swift current.

Runoff from heavy snowfall has led to hazardous river conditions. Eight people have died so far this year in Yosemite.

USA Today has a debate on how much responsibility a hiker has when hiking in a national park. Realistically, the answer is 100%: it's just you, a trail, friction, and gravity. Rangers can place guard rails, chains and warning signs near danger spots, but it is ultimately up to the hiker to decide if those barriers are to be obeyed.

Even the next day, rangers aren't even sure how many hikers are missing.

Videos

Vernal Falls

see larger video

sourced by NowPublic Staff