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Geopositioning technology is now helping Yosemite Visitors experience Yosemite National Park more fully.  Tour devices called explorers can be rented at the Yosemite Valley Visitors Center provide waypoint information along a 1.6-mile loop around lower Yosemite falls.  At key points along the loop, users can turn on the device to get information about what they’re seeing.

The device works similar to car navigation systems to determine the exact location of the visitor, guiding them and providing narration and images. There are also stories, trivia questions and interactive games to play. For younger visitors, there is a treasure chest search for clues and secret messages.

The National Park Service, the nonprofit Yosemite Association and San Jose-based “Big Escapes” collaborated to offer this at Yosemite.  The Explorer units rent for $9.95/adults and $7.95/children (3 to 12 years old).  Headphones cost an additional dollar or you can use your own.  Yosemite Association members save 15%.

Topics stored in the devices include such subjects as Yosemite’s early pioneers, historic milestones, cultural heritage and native wildlife, and ecology, as well as see footage of forest fires, rock slides and the 100-year flood of 1997 and hear the words of John Muir and content from San Francisco Chronicle cartoonist Phil Frank.

The loop, which is fully accessible, usually takes about 90 minutes.  It begins at the visitor center, winds through oak woodlands and conifer forests to a close-up view of Lower Yosemite Falls. Reservations are not necessary, however, groups of 10 or more can reserve Explorer units in advance by calling (877) GPS-TOUR (477-8687) or online at www.lowerfallsloop.com.