Program Overview: Living in a place covered in snow for much of the year presents many unique challenges for wildlife. On this weekend, we will learn about many of the animals that live in the High Sierra and the fascinating strategies that they use to survive these conditions. Some will readily make themselves seen for us to view and photograph, while others are rarely seen but leave signs behind that let us know they have been there. We will learn about these animals individually and in community via how they interact in the alpine and subalpine ecosystems where they live.
Some of these High Sierra species have been profoundly affected by past and present human actions. Find out what biologists have learned and the actions they are taking to help wildlife survive these impacts.
We’ll meet Saturday morning for a short hike at high elevation, taking time to acclimate as we climb the pass to Gaylor Lakes. Some of the wildlife we’ll look for here include marmot, pika, Belding’s ground squirrel, Clark’s Nutcracker, Mountain Chickadee, Osprey, Mountain Bluebird, and more.
On Saturday evening, Roland Knapp, research biologist with the Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Lab, will join the group at the campsite to share stories of his work with the recovery of Mountain Yellow-legged frogs. On Sunday morning, the group will hike up to the Mono Pass area with Roland to look for adults, subadults, and tadpoles of Sierra Nevada Mountain Yellow-legged frogs, Yosemite Toads, and Pacific Tree Frogs. On this day, you will certainly get a close look at these amphibians and learn so much about the aquatic ecosystems in which they live.
Be prepared for a busy few days of exploring and learning in some truly stunning landscapes. Although the pace will be slow with frequent stops to observe, learn, and discuss, be ready for it to feel strenuous due to the uphill trails, mileage, and high elevation. Expect a long day on Sunday with up to 8–9 miles of distance covered. We’ll try to start hiking by 8 am and may not return to the cars until 6–7 pm to allow for a leisurely hike with time to spend at the lakes and ponds at the pass.
This class will leave you with a greater understanding and appreciation of the High Sierra — a gift that you will have for the rest of your life.
Know Before You Go:
- Program dates: Saturday, July 19 through Sunday, July 20, 8:30 am–3:30 pm
- Program location: Yosemite’s High Country
- What’s included: Two full days of guided instruction by 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 July 18 after 12 pm and depart on July 21 by 11 am. There are three 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 firepit are provided at each site. Campsites fit six people per site.
- Campground Location: Tuolumne Meadows. Please note that if the campground is not open for some reason, then camping will be provided at the best alternative location available.
- Lodging: No lodging accommodations other than camping are available.
- Experience level: All levels welcome, but participants must be physically fit to walk at elevation with a daypack.
What’s not included:
- Gear or meals during your program.
- Camping gear or meals in the shared campsites.
- Transportation.
