Explore the past, present and future of Yosemite’s glacial ice during this unforgettable adventure with an expert naturalist.
Enjoy a rare opportunity to backpack to the park’s highest peak, Mount Lyell, home to what was once Yosemite’s largest glacier. Research funded by Conservancy donors shows that this ice body has recently ceased its centuries of motion and, therefore, is no longer considered a glacier. Experience a remote, rugged part of the Yosemite Wilderness, as you learn about the history of glaciation in the Sierra Nevada and how shifting conditions are affecting Yosemite’s glacial ice. Your reward for climbing steep rock and braving strong wind and sun at high elevation will be to set foot on the former glacier and gain a deeper understanding of the park’s geologic past and future.
Included with your registration:
- Three full days of guided backpacking out of Tuolumne Meadows. Starting at 8 am on Friday, August 2, through around 5 pm on Sunday, August 4 (dependent on the speed of the group), plus an introductory evening meeting (7:30 pm on Thursday, August 1, at Tuolumne Meadows Campground).
- Park entry (as needed).
- Shared camping before and after the trip (as needed, Thursday, August 1, and Sunday, August 4) at Tuolumne Meadows Campground.
- Bear-canister rental (as needed) and Wilderness permits.
- Note: There is no discount if you choose not to use our gate pass or campsites. Information about upgrading your accommodations to stay at Tuolumne Meadows Lodge will be emailed to you after you sign up. The option to upgrade expires 45 days before the program.
