Join Catherine Wortmann and Emily Chandler on a backpack trip into the heart of Yosemite! Backpacking, outdoor yoga, community, and ecology are woven into this journey of body, mind and spirit.

This epic trip will be catered to beginners, though all levels of experience are welcome to enjoy this mildly-paced backpack through some of Yosemite’s glorious terrain.

We will be traveling along the stunning Pohono Trail, averaging between 4-8 miles per day with a heavy pack. Total mileage for this trip is around 13.8 miles, which gives us plenty of time to move with intention, soak in the sights, and immerse ourselves in nature.

This backpack starts on the rim at elevation and we will eventually descend and conclude our trek in Yosemite Valley (roughly 2,800ft descend).

Experience deeper connection to your personal sadhana as you develop a home practice, bringing your experience out of the High Sierra mountains into daily life.

• Pre-trip support and multiple rounds of communication with our experienced team and trip leaders, so you feel fully prepared coming to Yosemite

• Access to Yosemite for the duration of the trip (no need to reserve a Park entry pass when the reservation system is in effect, one is included in your registration!) + option to stay in Backpackers Camp the nights before & after the trip (no additional charge)

• Daily yoga classes in some of the most epic outdoor “studios” in the world (optional participation)

• All meals included during the trip, which are Ayurvedic-inspired and curated to honor your dietary needs

• Deep reflection through morning guided meditation and mindfulness practices

• Play in nature with spontaneous river or alpine lake dips

• An unforgettable experience in Yosemite’s unparalleled wilderness in the capable hands of our guide team, learning about backpacking basics & wilderness practices/safety skills

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Balanced Rock provides expert guidance, campground fees, wilderness permit fees, first-aid supplies, and group gear for backpacking.

Participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from the trailhead, any park entrance fees, and personal items (see What to Bring for more details).

Reach out to our team for assistance in planning to attend this program: we are here to offer suggestions, support and logistical recommendations.

Wednesday - Day 1

Meet at the trailhead on your first morning for introductions and trip orientation. Next, learn what and how to pack your backpack before heading out. This hike may take the entirety of the day, including breaks to enjoy the scenery. Stretch your muscles with some yoga followed by a delicious dinner as the Range of Light, bathed in alpenglow, lives up to its reputation. Evenings may include fireside stories, music, or gazing at the Milky Way from the cozy comfort of your sleeping bag.

Thursday, Friday & Saturday - Days 2-4

Adapt to the natural rhythms of the planet and flow with the specific needs and desires of the group while moving camp or enjoying a day-hike with light packs. Feel a settling into your new home among granite domes and peaceful lake waters. Enjoy opportunities for swimming in alpine lakes, day hikes to sweeping views of the High Sierra, or relaxing creek-side. Evenings are set aside for intentional discussions, wilderness education, creative journaling, music-making, or quiet contemplation around the campfire.

Sunday - Day 5

Enjoy a yoga class and meditation before sharing your final breakfast as a group in the field. After packing up, begin your final hike back to the trailhead and say heartfelt goodbyes to your fellow adventurers at the end of the journey.

**This schedule is subject to change depending on the needs of the group and allows for spontaneous inspiration. Registered participants will receive a detailed schedule closer to the trip date with exact times and locations. Almost all of the activities offered are optional. This program operates rain or shine.

Adventure through some of the most scenic and beautiful backcountry terrain of the Sierra Nevada mountain range within Yosemite National Park.

Participants are strongly encouraged to acclimate to hiking at elevation with a pack prior to the this trip. Our trailhead may begin at 8,000-9,000 ft with anticipated elevation gain depending on our permit location.

Check back for specific permit information once registration opens!

$900/person

Balanced Rock strives to offer affordable programming to all of our interested participants. If you need financial assistance to attend this program, please contact us to request an application.

Every registered participant will be emailed a very specific gear list, along with multiple opportunities to speak with our staff and trip leaders about gear so you feel fully prepared for this adventure.

You will need your own backpack (at least 65L) as well as a sleeping kit (ultralight sleeping pad & ultralight sleeping bag), and a good pair of hiking boots (ones you have worn and tested for any hot spots!). We recommend visiting your nearest REI to test out weighted packs (test weight of 20-30lbs), as well as footwear.

Balanced Rock provides shared tents and all backcountry kitchen gear, and all participants will be required to carry a portion of group gear during the trip.

Balanced Rock has limited gear available for loan, please inquire with our team if you need assistance or have questions regarding what to pack.

All participants will be required to read and sign the Health & Safety Policy for Programs at registration.

We understand plans change. As a small nonprofit, we can offer a partial refund of the program price minus a $50 administrative fee up to 30 days before the program start. Any cancellations after this deadline will not be eligible for a refund. All participants will be required to read and accept our Cancellation and Refund Policy upon registration.