Program Overview: Spring in the Merced River Canyon is teeming with life. Plants bloom, birds court and nest, butterflies pollinate and gather nuptial gifts, newts breed, and all the while, the Merced River rages nearby, swollen by the melting snow in the mountains, and hides river otters and beavers within.
In addition to the obvious, there is so much happening in this Chaparral community that most people would never notice. Sterling Keeley, co-author of Introduction to California Chaparral and retired botany professor, will be joining your Yosemite Conservancy guide on this Outdoor Adventure to dive deep into the fascinating community that covers approximately 7 million acres of California!
We will take a close look at plants, discovering why plants look the way they do while also enjoying the beauty of spring wildflowers. As we hear and see birds along the way, we will learn about the meaning behind calls and identify specific bird calls. We will also keep our eyes out for newts, butterflies, otters, and any other wildlife.
This program is more of a saunter than a hike, with frequent stops to allow time to closely observe flora and fauna. We will walk along what used to be the Yosemite Valley Railroad route, now a wide dirt trail that parallels the river. We will provide hand lenses and binoculars for better viewing and will stop to discuss and learn about anything and everything that we notice along the way. Come excited to take time to discover and learn in a stunning and vibrant environment.
Know Before You Go:
- Program date: Thursday, March 27, 8:30 am–2:30 pm
- Program location: Outside the park in El Portal along the Merced River (a 30-minute drive from Yosemite Valley campsites and lodging)
What’s included: A full day of guided instruction with a Yosemite Naturalist, park entry (as needed), and shared tent camping (camping dates cannot be altered). There is no discount if you choose not to use the included gate pass or campsite. - Camping dates: Participants can arrive on March 26 after 12 pm and must depart on March 28 by 11 am. There are two shared campsites among all the participants. We guarantee tent camping only. If you choose to bring a recreational vehicle, we cannot guarantee you will have a parking spot — please be prepared to tent camp. A picnic table, bear locker, and fire pit are provided at each site. Campsites fit six people per site.
- Campground location: Upper Pines in Yosemite Valley
- Lodging: Upgrade to Yosemite Valley Lodge for an additional fee. Lodging dates match camping dates. Lodging blocks expire 30 days prior to the program. Details for using our Group Code to book lodging will be emailed to you immediately after you register.
- Experience level: All levels welcome.
What’s not included:
- Gear or meals during your program.
- Camping gear or meals in the shared campsites.
- Transportation.
