Program Overview: Dive into the botanical beauty of northwestern Yosemite during this two-day guided program. In this lesser-known (and underrated!) area of the park, you’ll learn about wildflowers and wetlands, AKA meadow hydrology and ecology.
Your guide, Dan Webster, will point out the spring blooms of Hetch Hetchy along the way to towering Wapama Falls, helping you sharpen your identification skills of diverse plants (trees, wildflowers, bushes) and learn their ecological and cultural significance. You can also expect to see and learn to identify butterflies and other pollinators as you find yourself immersed in the verdant and diverse web of life around you. You’ll explore the important role wetlands play in natural landscapes and hear from Yosemite National Park Hydrologist Catherine Fong, who will join the group on Friday, May 17, in Ackerson Meadow. Fong is leading efforts to restore the area to its former glory as a healthy meadow ecosystem and biodiversity hotspot. She will share the latest research and conservation efforts amid the ongoing restoration of this important meadow habitat.
Learn more about Ackerson Meadow here.
Know Before You Go:
- Program dates: Friday, May 16 through Saturday, May 17, 8:30 am–4:30 pm each day
- Program location: Hetch Hetchy
- What’s included: Two full days of guided instruction by a Yosemite Naturalist and a Hydrologist, one free day to explore on your own (May 18), 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 May 15 after 12 pm and must depart on May 19 by 11 am. This is a walk-in Group Site; parking is a short walk away. We guarantee tent camping only. Sleeping in recreational vehicles is not permitted. Please be prepared to tent camp. Multiple picnic tables, bear lockers, and fire pits are available.
- Lodging: Upgrade to Evergreen Lodge for an additional fee. Lodging dates match camping dates. Lodging blocks expire 30 days prior to the program. Details on using our Group Code to book lodging will be emailed to you immediately after you register.
- Campground Location: Hetch Hetchy
- Experience level: All levels welcome.
*This two-day program includes four nights of camping. Make the most of your trip by enjoying an extra free day, May 18, to explore on your own.
What’s not included:
- Gear or meals during your program.
- Camping gear or meals in the shared campsites.
- Transportation.
