Meditation Trek: Mindfulness Meditation and Backpacking in Yosemite

Discover ease in movement, stillness of mind, and the freshness in each moment through the integration of meditation and backpacking in Yosemite. Explore how nature gracefully teaches us to relax with things as they are, even in the midst of life's surprising challenges and change. Find the balance that allows us to gently stretch ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally.

This course is ideal for anyone who is new to meditation, backpacking, or both; and most importantly, anyone who wants to explore awareness. Those experienced in meditation or backcountry travel will find something new and personally enriching in this unique combination. This meditation program focuses on cultivating awareness rather than covering miles. There will be at least one layover day for a day hike, focused instruction, and time for silent, solo reflection. We will also focus on bringing these new skills back home with us, cultivating stillness, awareness and joy in our daily home lives.

The Sierra Nevada of Yosemite has a uniquely timeless quality of stillness and simple beauty that matches Balanced Rock's philosophy of inner stillness. Come find out why countless artists and poets have been drawn to the Zen landscapes of this inspirational place.

Highlights:

• Meditation instruction and guidance
• Daily meditation practice
• Energizing and restorative yoga practice
• Solo reflective time in nature
• Backpacking, hiking, and camp-craft skills
• Immersion in granite peaks and forests of the Yosemite wilderness
• Fresh meals include local and organic ingredients

Itinerary:

Wednesday
We will gather at our designated campground in Yosemite National Park at 3:00 pm for introductions, intention setting and an orientation to the course. In the afternoon we will dive into our meditation practice and get acquainted with each other and the wilderness of Yosemite. We will organize and review gear and food, learn about the basics of packing for backcountry travel, and conclude the evening by sharing a delicious camp meal. After dinner, there will be time for group activities, sharing stories, and stargazing as we settle in for our first night in the mountains.

Thursday
We greet the morning sun together and welcome the new day with meditation and mindful-movement. After a nourishing breakfast we will pack our backpacks and depart for the trailhead where we will begin our Yosemite wilderness adventure. Our first day on the trail will include important instruction in backcountry travel skills, Leave No Trace principles, hiking, and camp-craft interwoven with gentle yoga and meditation practice.

Our hiking pace allows for time to enjoy the presence of wildflowers, rock formations, and mountain streams along our route. Our lunch break includes opportunities for group discussion, journaling, and soaking in the surrounding peace. After lunch we continue our mindful journey towards camp. Together we create our home for the evening and share a delicious dinner. The evenings are set aside for meditation, gentle stretches, and conversations on finding balance in our lives. There will be time for stargazing and bedtime stories as we relax in the serenity and peace of the backcountry.

Friday and Saturday
After our morning meditation and breakfast, we continue our trek through the Yosemite backcountry. In addition to the adventure of backpacking, each day provides opportunities for swimming in alpine lakes, day hikes to sweeping views of the High Sierra, or perhaps relaxing in our backcountry "hammock lounge". Evenings continue to be set aside for dharma talks, wilderness education, creative journaling, music-making or quiet contemplation around the campfire. We will also include a lay-over day where we have more time for solo reflection, personal meditation, and in-depth exploration of our new Yosemite home.

Sunday
Our last morning, we will enjoy a final meditation session before enjoying our last breakfast in the field. Then we will pack our backpacks and begin our hike back to the trailhead.

After putting closure on our journey together, we will conclude by 2pm.

Note on Itinerary:

This schedule is an outline. It is subject to change depending on the needs of the group and of course moods of the elements. It allows for spontaneous inspiration. This program operates rain or shine.

Price Includes:

Professional instruction and guiding, campground and permit fees, first-aid supplies, and group gear for backpacking and camping. Balanced Rock provides delicious and high-quality meals, cooking gear, and water purification supplies.

Not Included:

Transportation to and from your hometown to Yosemite, park entrance fees, and personal items.

Travel:

The driving time to Yosemite from the Bay Area is 3.5-4 hours and varies depending on traffic and road conditions. For California highway conditions visit http://www.dot.ca.gov/ or call 1-800-427-7623. For the latest road conditions and advisories in the park, call 1-209-372-0200 then press 1. You are required to carry and be prepared to use tire chains.

Important Information about Air Travel:

Prior to purchasing your airline tickets contact Balanced Rock to confirm the trip has the minimum number of participants required. info@balancedrock.org or 209-379-9453.

Closest Airports:

Fresno, CA: 103 miles; Oakland, CA: 159 miles; Sacramento, CA: 170 miles

Public Transportation and Carpooling:

There is excellent train and bus transportation to Yosemite Valley. For information on public transportation options please visit: http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/publictransportation.htm. Once you are enrolled we will send you detailed pre-trip information including options for carpooling.

Accommodations:

Our first night will be at a campground near the trailhead. The following three nights will be in the backcountry. All four nights, we will be sleeping in tents or under the stars.

Qualifications:

This trip requires the ability to hike and carry a pack at altitudes ranging from 6,000 to 9,000 feet, over varying mountain terrain. To maximize your enjoyment of the trip, we suggest that you engage in a regular exercise routine prior to the course. We also recommend that you stay well-hydrated prior to departure to assist in adjusting to altitude. Please see notes in the welcome letter for further information on preparing for our adventure. Appropriate and open to all levels of backpackers and yoga practitioners.

Weather:

Daytime temperatures can range between 50°-90° F. Mountain weather can change quickly. It is common to have clear sunny mornings with building clouds and afternoon showers followed by clear starry skies at night. Please check the forecast frequently before your course and plan accordingly. Visit the Yosemite National Park "Plan Your Visit" site for detailed information and weather-related links. http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/hours.htm

General Information:

Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Detailed pre-trip information, including directions to the meeting place, will be sent when you enroll.

We look forward to creating a special experience that you'll never forget! Why wait?