Story perspectives

Illegal BASE Jumping Surges Amid Yosemite Shutdown

10/24/2025

Summary

Story summary

During the government shutdown, illegal BASE jumping increased at Yosemite National Park, with around 20 jumps reported on October 1.
The National Park Service states law enforcement rangers are fully operational.
Safety and park maintenance concerns have risen due to staffing shortages, including trash buildup and facility disrepair.
At Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, a law enforcement investigation is underway after damage to a historic stone wall.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting from October 1 to October 17, resulted from a budget impasse over the Affordable Care Act, leading to the closure of all 401 national parks. This shutdown caused significant economic losses, estimated at $76 million daily in tourism, and heightened concerns about safety and maintenance due to staffing shortages, as evidenced by increased illegal activities in parks like Yosemite.

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Story summary

During the government shutdown, illegal BASE jumping increased at Yosemite National Park, with around 20 jumps reported on October 1.
The National Park Service states law enforcement rangers are fully operational.
Safety and park maintenance concerns have risen due to staffing shortages, including trash buildup and facility disrepair.
At Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, a law enforcement investigation is underway after damage to a historic stone wall.

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