Program Overview: Most people visit the Mariposa Grove during the busy summer months, but on this day trip, you’ll experience a quieter season in Yosemite — early spring. This is one of three giant sequoia groves in the park, and the largest. The Grove holds deep significance for the National Park Service, as these ancient giants have long stood as symbols of resilience, conservation, and Yosemite’s natural legacy.
Depending on conditions, you’ll either hike or snowshoe among the towering sequoias and take in the serene, inspiring atmosphere of this quieter time of year. As you wander beneath the massive red-brown trunks and gaze up at their sky-scraping branches, you’ll look and listen for wildlife that remain active year-round, hear the stories behind some of the Grove’s most famous trees, and learn how the Sierra Nevada snowpack has sustained these giants for thousands of years.
Know Before You Go:
- Program date: Saturday, March 7; 9 am–3 pm
- Location: Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
- What’s Included
- A full day of guided instruction with a Yosemite Naturalist
- Snow Shoes (if needed)
- Park entry pass (valid for program dates only)
- Shared tent camping (camping dates cannot be altered)
- No discount is available if you choose not to use the gate pass or campsite.
- Camping Information: Arrive Friday, March 6, after 12 pm. Depart Sunday, March 8, by 11 am. Two campsites are shared between all participants, each with space for 4–5 tents and equipped with a picnic table, bear locker, and fire pit.
- Camping Location: Upper Pines in Yosemite Valley
- Important Notes: Due to the shared nature of the campsites, we cannot accommodate RVs, campers, or car camping. If you would like a private campsite, have an RV/camper, or plan to sleep in your car, you’ll need to make your own reservation. Please note that camping is reserved for program participants only.
- Lodging Upgrade: Upgrade to Yosemite Valley Lodge for an additional fee. A block of rooms is reserved for program dates only. Lodging blocks expire 30 days prior to the program. Booking details, including the Group Code, will be emailed after registration.
What’s Not Included:
- Gear or meals during your program
- Camping gear or meals in the shared campsites
- Transportation
Experience Level: All levels welcome!
