Date: April 5, 2011
This Year’s Programs Include More Than 30 Adventures and Customized Opportunities from Backpacking and Photography to Native American History
Yosemite Conservancy announced new ways for visitors to experience Yosemite National Park through its Outdoor Adventures programs - from photography courses on capturing stunning natural phenomena, family camping expeditions in the high country to hikes that explore Tuolumne Meadows birds.
“Outdoor Adventures opens doors to Yosemite that most people have not hiked through. They offer rare opportunities to enjoy everything the park has to offer with expert guides,” said Mike Tollefson, president of Yosemite Conservancy.
More than 30 Outdoor Adventures are available for park visitors to hike, observe, experience and explore Yosemite. Instructors have decades of experience in the park and in their areas of expertise. Programs occur throughout the park from the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias to Tuolumne Meadows, and to the farthest reaches of Lyell Glacier. These programs supplement National Park Service interpretive services.
Groups and families can customize their adventures in Yosemite with naturalists and guides. Anyone can register for an Outdoor Adventure or inquire about a customized experience on Yosemite Conservancy’s website. Some other courses include hikes to learn about little-known history of Yosemite Valley, discovering how Native American basket weaving is done, and photographing landscapes in autumn light. Custom adventures might lead you on a birding quest, a challenge hike or to explore incredible geology in the park.
“Outdoor Adventures are a great hands-on way to gain a deeper appreciation for Yosemite’s wildlife, geology and cultural history, and a have a great time doing it,” said Yosemite National Park Chief of Interpretation & Education Tom Medema. Program fees generated by participating in Outdoor Adventures support the Conservancy’s extensive work in the park.
About Yosemite Conservancy
Yosemite Conservancy is the only philanthropic organization dedicated exclusively to the protection and preservation of Yosemite National Park and enhancement of the visitor experience. The Conservancy works to restore trails, protect wildlife through scientific research and habitat restoration, and offers outdoor programs that provide visitors with unique ways to connect with the park. It has funded over 300 projects through $60 million in grants in areas including trail and habitat restoration, wildlife protection, education, volunteering, and the production of award winning books and DVDs. Learn more at www.yosemiteconservancy.org or call 1-800-469-7275.
