BASE jumpers illegally take to Yosemite’s El Capitan as shutdown hampers park enforcement

BASE jumpers exploit government shutdown to leap in Yosemite

In early October, amid the U.S. government shutdown, a trail runner and climber ascending Yosemite National Park’s El Capitan spotted individuals illegally parachuting from the summit. (Credit: Charles Winstead/@bigwalltrailrunner via Storyful)

The Brief

A climber filmed BASE jumpers leaping illegally from Yosemite’s El Capitan during the government shutdown.

Charles Winstead said he saw more than eight people jumping over several days.

Park staffing cuts and furloughs hindered enforcement during the shutdown.

As the U.S. government shutdown left Yosemite National Park short-staffed, a climber captured videos of BASE jumpers leaping illegally from El Capitan — a risky thrill made easier by the lack of enforcement.

Charles