Program Overview: Experience the wild heart of the Sierra Nevada without the weight of a heavy pack. On this unique mule-supported backpacking adventure, you’ll journey with acclaimed photographer Robb Hirsch, photographer of Yosemite Wildlife: The Wonder of Animal Life in California’s Sierra Nevada, and author/photographer of The Nature of Yosemite – A Visual Journey. Together with expert naturalist Dan Webster, you’ll explore the Sierra Nevada’s high country through both lenses – science and photography.
Because mules will carry the gear, you’ll hike in with just your day pack, a sleeping bag, and personal essentials. At basecamp in a secluded, high-country location, everything else is provided: tents, chairs, a kitchen setup, and hearty backcountry meals with a gourmet flair.
Each day Robb will lead photography excursions from camp, and there will be ample time to photograph on your own. A unique aspect of the basecamp is the abundance of photographic opportunities from grand landscapes to intimate scenes and abstracts in close proximity. There may also be chances for wildlife and night photography.
This trip is designed for all levels of photographers, from beginners wanting to capture the magic of the Sierra to advanced photographers seeking refined guidance in composition, light, and creative aspects. During the day, Dan Webster will guide natural history walks, looking at the flora, fauna and geology, deepening your connection with the surrounding landscape. Between hikes, enjoy a comfortable camp with good food, great company, and endless views.
This trip combines the ease of mule support with the richness of expert interpretation of the natural world, offering an unforgettable chance to immerse yourself deep in Yosemite’s high country.
Recommended: Mirrorless or digital SLR camera, tripod.
Know Before You Go:
- Program dates: Acclimation hike Wednesday, September 2 from 9 am – 2 pm. Mule-supported trip runs Thursday, September 3 – Sunday, September 6, 8:30 – 4 pm, each day
- Program location: Virginia Lake
- What’s Included
- Guided photography instruction with local Yosemite photographer Robb Hirsch
- Guided natural history hikes with a Yosemite Conservancy Naturalist Guide
- Dunnage drop (Virginia Lake Pack Station will transport gear to Yosemite High Country basecamp)
- Meals (Dinner September 2 – Lunch September, 6)
- Tents
- Toilet
- Camp chairs
- Tables
- Park entry pass (valid for program dates only)
- Wilderness Permit
- Shared front-country tent camping before and after the trek. (Camping dates cannot be altered)
- No discount is available if you choose not to use the gate pass or campsite.
- Camping Information: Before the trek, arrive Tuesday, September 1 after 12 pm and depart Wednesday, September 2. After the trek, arrive Sunday, September, 6 after 12 pm. Depart Monday, September, 7 by 11 am. Two shared campsites between participants, each with space for 4-5 tents and equipped with a picnic table, bear locker, and fire pit.
- Camping Location: Tuolumne Meadows Campground
- 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.
What’s Not Included
- Sleeping bag
- Camping gear
- Transportation
- Note: Each person can bring 30 lbs of gear each.
Experience Level: All Levels Welcome. Specialized guidance for advanced photographers.
