Yosemite Association’s 2005 Outdoor Adventure Program Focuses on The Hottest Consumer Trends in Outdoor Recreation And Education

The 2005 Outdoor Adventures catalog, just released by the acclaimed non-profit Yosemite Association (YA), was designed with a fresh, progressive approach identifying key areas of consumer interest and growth in the outdoor recreation industry. The resulting expanded catalog of over 80 field courses includes more than 50% new educational, recreational and artistic offerings that will create broad appeal to diverse audiences.

“We have compiled a dynamic 2005 roster that incorporates our most popular classes from the past, as well as many brand new courses and subject matter,” explains Beth Pratt, Yosemite Association Vice President and CFO. “I believe this is the most exciting line-up of courses that we have ever offered in the 33-year history of the Outdoor Adventures.”

By polling existing members, course attendees, instructors and industry experts, the Yosemite Association designed their 2005 schedule of Outdoor Adventure classes. Some of the notable offerings include:

• 3-day writer’s workshop featuring nationally renowned author Natalie Goldberg , that focuses on deepening the motivational, creative and artistic process for writers of all formats.

• Exploring Yosemite by GPS (Global Positioning System), that teaches backcountry navigational skills using the latest satellite technology.

• Wildflower Photography Workshops , a 5-part progressive field series held April-July, designed to improve wildflower photography skills for camera enthusiasts of all levels.

• Yosemite Birding Festival , a 3-day celebration of Yosemite wildlife including workshops, book signings, ranger walks and field trips for all types of bird enthusiasts.

• Guided Day Hikes , a first time offering, inspired by growing public demand, for guided hikes to such popular Yosemite destinations as Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, North Dome, Mt. Dana, Clouds Rest, and Mt. Hoffman.

• Yosemite in Español , designed to introduce the wonders of Yosemite to a growing Hispanic audience, this interpretive session is conducted in Spanish.

• Volunteer Service Research Projects , offering participants the chance to assist the National Park Service Rangers conduct research, data collection, visitor information and park patrols on the subject of wild bear/human co-habitation.

Two Family Camping Jamboree weekends (an all-inclusive high-country camping excursion) will be offered in 2005, capitalizing on past sold-out attendance. In addition, historically popular workshops in art, astronomy, birding, fly-fishing and natural history as well as interpretive hikes and backpacking trips will be repeated during the 2005.

All courses are open to the public, beginning in January with a course on Winter Ecology and ending in November with an Autumn Photography workshop. Revenues from YA programs provide substantial funding to the National Park Service’s interpretive, museum, and research programs.

For a free course catalog, more information and registration, call (209) 379-2321 or visit online at www.yosemite.org.

Since its inception in 1971, the award-winning Outdoor Adventures program has been growing steadily, reflecting the public’s continuing interest in quality outdoor education. Taught by park rangers, experienced naturalists and field scientists, participants can learn and experience Yosemite in an interactive, stimulating environment. In 2004, course enrollment rose nearly 85% from 2003.

In 2004, the Association of Partners for Public Lands (APPL) and the National Park Service awarded Yosemite Association’s Outdoor Adventures top prize for its on-site educational programs, honoring the great variety of offerings for diverse groups. These affordable and unique excursions within Yosemite National Park fit every age, interest, and ability.

Yosemite Outdoor Adventure participants do not have to be a member of Yosemite Association to attend field courses. However, those who wish to become a steward of Yosemite, one of the world’s most beautiful places, can join the Yosemite Association with memberships starting at $35 per year. Membership benefits include discounted room rates in and around Yosemite, a 15% discount on all outdoor adventures, subscription to “ Yosemite,” the quarterly journal of the Association, 15% discount on all books, maps, posters and calendars, and regular email newsletters.

Founded in 1923, the Yosemite Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the support of Yosemite through its volunteer, publishing, outdoor education, and other programs.

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