Yosemite National Park, March 4, 2014 – Trekking to one of Yosemite National Park’s secret spots on the summer solstice, exploring areas within the park affected by last year’s Rim Fire, and photographing rainbows at night created by waterfalls are among the nearly 50 Outdoor Adventures for 2014 unveiled by Yosemite Conservancy.  “Yosemite Conservancy’s Outdoor Adventures are a compelling way to learn about all aspects of the park, create unforgettable memories and encourage stewardship of this incredible treasure,” said Yosemite National Park Superintendent Don Neubacher…

Expert photographers, artists, naturalists and historians lead Outdoor Adventures spanning the entire park geography. Visitors can learn about mountain wildflowers and birds, photographing seasonal changes or painting with watercolors. Outdoor Adventures occur throughout the year and most are limited to 15 participants. Proceeds from Outdoor Adventures are poured into important restoration and protection work that Yosemite Conservancy supports in the park.

One of the many new Outdoor Adventures this year is a summer solstice trek to the lesser-known Devil’s Dancefloor, a large expanse of flat granite near Yosemite Valley. Another new hike explores how the Rim Fire of 2013 affected Yosemite’s landscape, plants and animals. Visitors who love the high country will enjoy a beginner level hike to May Lake or a more challenging trek to the edge of Tuolumne Grand Canyon. There are several photography programs, including one on how to capture “moonbows,” which are rainbows that appear at night amid waterfalls. Still other adventures involve family camping and nature explorations in Tuolumne Meadows.

“Our Outdoor Adventures give visitors of all ages and abilities a rare opportunity to experience Yosemite National Park’s unforgettable backcountry, wilderness, geology, art and culture in small groups led by renowned experts,” said Mike Tollefson, president of Yosemite Conservancy.

Custom Adventures are also available for groups, families or individuals ranging from gentle one-hour hikes to challenging treks. Register for an Outdoor Adventure or inquire about a customized experience at www.yosemiteconservancy.org/outdoor-adventures or 209-379-2646 ext. 10.

Through the support of donors, Yosemite Conservancy provides grants and support to Yosemite National Park to help preserve and protect Yosemite today and for future generations. The work funded by Yosemite Conservancy is visible throughout the park, from trail rehabilitation to wildlife protection and habitat restoration. The Conservancy is dedicated to enhancing the visitor experience and providing a deeper connection to the park through outdoor programs, volunteering and wilderness services. Thanks to dedicated supporters, the Conservancy has provided more than $81 million in grants to Yosemite National Park. Learn more at yosemiteconservancy.org or call 1-800-469-7275.

Photo Captions:

1.     Snowshoeing among Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is one of nearly 50 Outdoor Adventures offered by Yosemite Conservancy. Credit: Nancy Robbins.

2.     Experience Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite’s backcountry with renowned experts by signing up for Yosemite Conservancy Outdoor Adventures. Credit: Keith Walklet.

3.     Professional photographs teach visitors how to photograph seasonal changes in Yosemite on a Yosemite Conservancy Outdoor Adventure. Credit: Keith Walklet