Yosemite National Park reclaims historic property names in trademark settlement

The names of several beloved properties are being restored following a civil lawsuit settlement reached between the National Park Service and Yosemite’s former concessionaire, DNC Parks and Resorts at Yosemite.

The lawsuit, which began in 2015, saw the former concessionaire claiming ownership of some of the park’s historic trade name and trademarks, which included changing the names of several of its most beloved lodgings.

Yosemite National Park spokesman Scott Gedimen says, “We felt strongly about restoring the names. People feel strongly about places like Curry Village, the Ahwahnee Hotel, places families have been coming for generations.”

Three of the properties, which are located in Yosemite Mariposa County, include:

1 – The Ahwahnee (formerly the Majestic Yosemite Hotel) 

Designated a National Historic Landmark, this 1920s hotel is an architectural masterpiece, providing spectacular views of Yosemite Valley, home to many famous cliffs and waterfalls and the iconic Half Dome. Although not a luxury resort, The Ahwahnee is the most elegant lodging inside the national park and has plenty of creature comforts on offer. From £384 per room. 

2 – Curry Village (formerly Half Dome Village) 

Located in the shadow of Half Dome and Glacier Point – an overlook with a commanding view of Yosemite Valley – the Half Done and Yosemite Falls, Curry Village is the largest lodging facility in Yosemite National Park and is the perfect place to set up base. Founded in 1899, the village consists of cabins with private baths, a dance pavilion and canvas tents. It’s central location makes exploring the rest of the park a breeze. Prices from £67 per night for a canvas tent. 

3 – Wawona Hotel (formerly Big Trees Lodge)

Founded in 1856, Wawona Hotel is one of California’s oldest mountain resort hotels. This National Historic Landmark is comprised of six lovingly restored Victorian buildings, each featuring antique furnishings and authentic period decor. The hotel is a stone’s throw from the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Trees – the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and home to over 500 of the world’s largest and oldest organisms. Prices from £173 per night for a standard room.