Yosemite National Park—once a sanctuary of serene granite cliffs and whispering pines—is facing an unprecedented crisis. With the federal government in partial shutdown mode, furloughed rangers and empty guard stations have created a dangerous vacuum, and a wave of brazen lawbreakers is rushing in to fill it.
Lawlessness Takes Flight
The most visible and alarming trend is the surge in illegal BASE jumping. Videos circulating on social media show daredevils leaping from the iconic El Capitan in wingsuits, a spectacle that is not only breathtaking but also strictly forbidden. BASE jumping has been illegal in all U.S. national parks since the 1980s due to the extreme risks it poses to the jumper and bystanders .
“They’re betting they won’t get caught,” said a former park ranger who asked to remain anonymous. “With 80% of our staff furloughed, there’s simply no one to patrol the backcountry or monitor the cliffs. It’s a free-for-all.”
Drones: The Unseen Threat
It’s not just human flyers causing chaos. The park’s strict ban on unmanned aircraft is being widely ignored. Drones are now a common sight, buzzing over sensitive wildlife habitats and historic landmarks, capturing footage for social media clout. This activity is a direct violation of federal regulations that prohibit launching or operating drones from park lands .
A Perfect Storm of Neglect
The current government shutdown has created the perfect conditions for this surge in illegal activity. Without a budget, the National Park Service cannot pay its employees, leaving the park’s vast 1,200 square miles largely unmonitored. This has emboldened not just extreme sports enthusiasts, but also those engaging in illegal camping and other unpermitted activities .
The situation is a stark reminder of the fragile balance between public access and conservation. Yosemite’s rules aren’t arbitrary; they exist to protect both visitors and the park’s delicate ecosystem.
Why BASE Jumping is Banned
Here’s a quick look at the risks that led to the federal ban:
| Risk Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| High Fatality Rate | BASE jumping is statistically one of the world’s most dangerous sports. |
| Public Safety | Falling debris or a jumper’s parachute failure can endanger hikers and climbers below. |
| Resource Strain | Rescues for BASE jumping accidents divert critical resources from other emergencies. |
| Environmental Damage | Access trails and launch points can cause erosion and disturb wildlife. |
While permits for such activities are theoretically possible, they are almost never granted in a place as high-risk and high-traffic as Yosemite .
The Path Forward
Park advocates and former staff are calling for an immediate resolution to the government funding impasse. They warn that every day of the shutdown not only risks a tragic accident but also inflicts long-term damage on the park’s natural resources and its reputation as a safe destination.
“This isn’t just about a few thrill-seekers,” the anonymous ranger added. “It’s about the soul of the park. We’re watching it get chipped away, one illegal jump at a time.”
