Program Overview: Enjoy the sights and sounds of spring in Yosemite Valley! On this relaxing spring weekend, you’ll spend Saturday and Sunday morning looking and listening for the many birds that make their year-round or seasonal homes in the park, such as the white-throated swift, mountain chickadee, or red-winged blackbird. Your naturalist guide will lead your group on casual hikes in the Valley, pointing out the telltale songs and signs of different bird species and exploring the important role birds play in the Yosemite ecosystem. And while you’re zooming in on birds with your binoculars and tuning into their spring melodies, don’t forget to take in your scenic surroundings: the Valley’s breathtaking cliffs, waterfalls and meadows.
Get a sneak peek at some of Yosemite’s colorful birds in the “Birdsongs” episode of Yosemite Nature Notes.
Know Before You Go
- When: Saturday, April 17 and Sunday, April 18, 8 am to around 1 pm each day.
- Where: Yosemite Valley
- Registration includes: Two half-days of guided birding, park entry (as needed), and three nights of tent camping at a shared group site in Yosemite Valley (April 16, 17 and 18). There is no discount if you choose not to use the included gate pass or campsite.
- Lodging: Tent camping (included), or upgrade to Curry Village for an additional fee. Camping and lodging dates cannot be adjusted. The upgrade option expires 30 days before the program.
- Experience level: No experience necessary!
View a suggested packing list.
COVID-19: We have implemented special safety measures to keep participants and instructors safe during the ongoing pandemic. For example, participants will hike single-file and keep moving to avoid crowding the trail, and instructors will stop to offer interpretation only when there is ample space to stay at least six feet apart. Please review our COVID-19 program procedures for details.
