Yosemite to Unveil Major Initiative in View of Park Shutdown

Yosemite National Park may be closed due to the federal government shutdown, but that hasn’t stopped local tourism officials from promoting the region, letting travelers know the park should be open soon and pointing to other regional attractions for visitors.

Terry Selk, executive director of the Yosemite Mariposa Tourism Board, is working overtime to sell Yosemite even though the park remains closed. Indeed, the California counties surrounding the park are trying assuage visitors and educate them as to why there is a government shutdown. Selk also says a major launch of a new promotional initiative is in the works.

“We are dealing with a high level of frustration and disappointment from people who don’t understand the government process,” said Selk. “We are providing alternatives experiences. He rattled off a list of tourist attractions: the giant sequoias in Nedler Grove outside of Oakhurst, the granite monolith of Fresno Dome and ziplines.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to expand people’s awareness and knowledge that there are so many other things around Yosemite that can enhance the experience,” said Selk. The adjacent counties of Tulomne and Mono and Madera’s Yosemite Sierra Bureau are collaborating with Mariposa as a region during the crisis. On the heels of the Rim fire, the shutdown is another reason for the counties to pull together.

“We work together cooperatively wherever we can,” Selk said. “It’s one more reason to share information and strengthen our relationship to keep people coming.” The tourist board is updating its Facebook page and Twitter feed regularly to cope with the situation.

Source: Travel Pulse, http://www.travelpulse.com/yosemite-to-unveil-major-initiative-in-view-of-park-shutdown.html