Snowfall brings beautiful scenery and icy roads to Yosemite

YOSEMITE (KFSN) -- From snowball fights to snow angels to snow men, visitors are making the most of the fresh flakes falling in Yosemite.

"I've never been here before so this is a pretty cool first encounter," said David Langhals, visiting from the bay area.

"Oh it's gorgeous, it hasn't been like this in a long time, but the snow is wonderful, the quiet peacefulness-- it's just beautiful," said Chris Camarena, visiting from Lemoore.

This is the second straight day of snow for Yosemite Valley, and the higher elevations are reporting a total of 40 inches right now. It's a welcome sight after four years of drought because the runoff will keep waterfalls flowing this spring and help replenish the state's water supply. "Oh we're definitely excited, especially my husband being from a long line of farmers, this is a really good thing," said Shanon Scalia, visiting from Visalia.

Another bonus is a boost in attendance this winter as families flock to see the Christmas card worthy sights. As beautiful as this scenery is, rangers said it's important to be prepared before coming into the park. That includes dressing in warm clothes and making sure both your shoes, and tires, have traction. "You do want to make sure you're carrying chains in your vehicle this time of year, even with four wheel drive you must have chains in your vehicle in any kind of chain control area," explained Ashley Mayer, Yosemite spokesperson.

Some visitors saw just how dangerous icy roads can be when a tour bus slid off Highway 41 on Tuesday. No one was seriously hurt, but the accident did send a message to other drivers. "Just take your time because it will be here when you get here," said Camarena.