Program Overview: Dive into the botanical beauty of northwestern Yosemite during a two-day guided program with a knowledgeable naturalist guide. In this Yosemite Field School course, you’ll learn about wildflowers and wetlands in the Hetch Hetchy area and at Ackerson Meadow. Enjoy the display of spring blooms along the edges of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and learn to identify diverse plants, from tall trees to colorful wildflowers and water-loving vegetation. You’ll also explore the important role wetlands play in natural landscapes, and hear from Yosemite hydrologists about efforts to restore Ackerson Meadow into a healthy ecosystem and biodiversity hotspot.
Know Before You Go
- When: Friday, May 21 and Saturday, May 22, 9 am to around 4 pm each day
- Where: Hetch Hetchy and Ackerson Meadow
- Registration includes: Two days of guided hiking and botany, park entry (as needed), and four nights of tent camping at a shared group site at Hetch Hetchy Backpackers Campground (May 20, 21, 22 and 23). There is no discount if you choose not to use the included gate pass or campsite.
- Lodging: Tent camping (included), or upgrade to Evergreen Lodge 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.
