Yosemite Valley, United States - October 27, 2024 As Yosemite National Park wrapped up its annual Mule Appreciation Day, Ranger Kate took the stage, not with an audience of humans, but with Josh the mule as her companion. In a heartwarming scene captured on video, Ranger Kate sits strumming her guitar, her voice carrying a tune to which Josh shows an attentive ear, nuzzling her in appreciation. With the end of October marking the seasonal retreat of these hardworking animals, the park shared a message of gratitude and respect. "Every year at the end of October, our mules head out to pasture for the winter in California’s Central Valley," they announced. The celebration ended with Ranger Kate's musical send-off, inviting everyone to join in spirit as the mules depart until spring. Yosemite emphasized the significance of these creatures, not just in festivities but in their daily operations. The park urged visitors to give mules the right of way on trails, especially when engaged in critical tasks like Search and Rescue or supply transport. They highlighted the importance of heeding the mule packers' instructions for the safety of both humans and animals. Yosemite National Park signed off with a cheerful "Happy Mule Appreciation Day, wherever you celebrate!", marking the end of a day dedicated to these unsung heroes of the park.