Visitors to Yosemite National Park can revel in its natural wonders like never before through Yosemite Conservancy’s guided Outdoor Adventures involving high country camping, bird watching and backpacking, among 60 unforgettable experiences offered in 2016. 

“Our Outdoor Adventures are led by naturalist guides who share lifetimes of experience and insider knowledge of the park,” said Frank Dean, president of Yosemite Conservancy. “Proceeds from Outdoor Adventures go to preserving and protecting to the park, so you’re able to simultaneously explore and care for Yosemite.”

There are adventures for visitors of all ages and abilities spanning the entire park geography and occurring throughout the year. Each program is limited to small groups to allow for a personalized park experience guided by expert historians, naturalists and artists. 

Among the Outdoor Adventures offered this year is a two-day “Birding by Ear & Beginning Birding” workshop where participants learn how to listen for specific sounds to identify birds, such as the burbling of the Cassin’s finch. There is a three-day “Backpack to Mono Pass: Peak Bagger” adventure through Yosemite’s eastern high country where participants explore remnants of log cabins from a 19th century mine and summit Koip and Parker Peaks, both of which rise nearly 13,000 feet. If you’re looking for a great way to connect the kids to the park and the outdoors, a “Family Camping Jamboree” provides meals, activities and hikes. 

Custom Adventures are also available for groups, families or individuals ranging from easy one-hour hikes to challenging overnight treks. Register for an Outdoor Adventure or inquire about a customized experience at www.yosemiteconservancy.org/outdoor-adventures or 209-379-2317 ext. 10.