HIKING IN YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
AMC Adventure Travel # 15__
June 14-24th, 2015
Join us for some fantastic day hiking in the Sierra Nevada splendor of Yosemite National Park.
Established by an act of Congress on Oct 1st, 1890 it is one of the best known parks in the world.
You will see plunging waterfalls, giant sequoias, alpine lakes, stark granite and an assortment of
flowers, birds and mammals.
The five distinct areas of the park attract nearly 3.5 million visitors annually: Yosemite valley
where we will be based; Wawona and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias; Glacier Point; the
Tioga Road and Tuolumne Meadows; and Hetch Hetchy in the high Sierra Area. We will try to
visit most of the areas (not Hetch Hetchy) provided road and weather conditions are favorable.
The “incomparable valley” of Yosemite Valley is 7 miles long and is the most visited section of
the park. The walls of the valley are draped with waterfalls that run full in the spring and early
summer. These are some of the tallest waterfalls in the world and we’ll be able to enjoy them
at their peak. The valley is filled with world class vistas of mountains, canyons, meadows,
granite cliffs, rivers, flowers and wildlife. A photographers’ paradise. We’ll hike in the historic
shadows of John Muir and Ansell Adams’ ghosts!
Although we will be visiting Yosemite at a busy time of year, we will still have stunning views.
Daily temperatures in the valley should be mild (80’s) with cooler temperatures at the higher
elevations. Late springtime weather is usually dry with good air quality. Be prepared for any
type of weather by bringing clothing which can be layered.
Daily hikes are all easy to intermediate level with lengths of 3 to 10 miles and elevation gains up
to 3500 feet. Hiking times will usually be 5 to 7 hours. We will hike at a moderate pace and
maintain a slower but steady pace on grades. There will definitely be time for photography and
enjoying the views along the way, we are here to enjoy nature not speed our way through it as
fast as possible! Participants should be in good physical condition with strength and endurance
demonstrated during recent and regular mountain hiking. The elevation range of our trails will
be 4000 to 10,000 feet. Initial hikes will be easier ones to help participants (and leaders!)
acclimatize and recover from jet lag/fatigue.
Expect the trails to have breath taking views. Some sections of the trails will be narrow, rocky
and possibly slippery (near waterfalls); grades can be steep as well as rocky. If the Park Service
enforces a “10 maximum group” rule, we will hike in 2 groups one behind the other with a
leader in each group.
Other Activities:
There are a wide range of activities available in the park other than hiking. Bikes can be rented
at Curry Village for use on the 12 miles of smooth, paved and level bike paths in the valley. The
bikes are single gear cruiser models that are easy to ride and can be rented by the hour or on a
daily basis; and includes use of a helmet.
There are also a wide range of evening programs, ranger talks and walks, Sierra Club programs,
photography walks and theater programs available on a daily basis. Everyone will have access
to the weekly Yosemite Newsletter which lists the times and descriptions of the available
programs. Most of the programs are free but the theater presentations have a cost of about
$10 per ticket.
The Valley Visitor Center has natural history displays, audiovisual programs and a bookstore;
the Auditorium presents informative films every ½ hour. Next door to the Visitor Center is the
Yosemite Museum which contains an Indian Cultural Exhibit which interprets the lives of the
Miwok and Paiute Indians who lived in Yosemite Valley. Behind the museum is the Miwok
Indian Village where we can walk on a self guided trail among several traditional dwellings and
watch demonstrations on native skills.
Potential Hikes:
Most hikes will be within 45-60 minutes of our
lodging and accessible via the Park shuttle service.
Once we transfer to the White Wolf
Lodge/Tuolumne Meadow Lodge north of the
Valley, we will do some hikes in that area. We will
also travel down to Mariposa to enjoy hiking
amidst the Giant Sequoias. Daily trip/hike
selection will depend on current weather and trail
conditions, participant abilities and advice from
park Rangers. High water at stream crossings,
deep snow, wet/slippery/muddy footing is all
conditions which can lead to trail closures. Our
trip goal is to have a wonderful but safe experience
and to return home with good memories! Safety
will be a major consideration and we will do our
best to avoid undue risk. We will follow Park rules
and stay together as a group. The following is a list of
potential hikes which would be available to us during our stay in Yosemite Valley.
The exact order of the hikes will be determined as our trip progresses and will be based on trail
conditions, weather, group desires and ability of participants. It is unlikely that we will be able to do all
of these hikes during our stay, but it gives you an idea of the trails.
All of these hikes are described in the book: YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK A COMPLETE HIKER’S GUIDE BY
Jeffrey Schaffer. We will not necessarily do all the hikes in the direction described in the book however,
or we may only do a portion of the described hike. But the descriptions in this book will give you an idea
of what the trails will be like. The trip leaders will be using the National Geographic Map #306 for
Yosemite Valley.
1) TRIP#78---Mariposa Grove---4 to 6 mile loop hike amid the giant Sequoias in the southeastern
part of the National Park. We will see the Clothespin tree, the Grizzly Giant, the Telescope tree,
the Fallen monarch, the Bachelor and 3 Graces. There are numerous looping trails in this area
so we will have several options as we walk around the area. We’ll spend 3 to 4 hours here and
have an elevation gain of approximately 1500 feet. We will drive the vans to the Wawona store
and then take the park shuttle to the grove area.
2) TRIP#61---Wawona Tunnel to Dewey Point---9.2miles (elevation gain 3380’, elevation loss 470’)
We’ll drive the vans to the Wawona Tunnel and enjoy the views of the valley. We’ll climb
steeply up from the parking lot for the first 1.2 miles to Inspiration Point. From there the trail
continues to climb but less steeply. We’ll visit three separate major viewpoints into Yosemite
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
Valley; Stanford, Crocker and Dewey Points. We’ll then retrace our steps and enjoy the views
from a different perspective (with the afternoon light) as we hike back down to the vans. 6 to 8
hours depending upon the photo stops.
TRIP# 74---Panorama Trail---9.2 miles (elevation gain 1,020’, elevation loss 4210’)
We will either drive to Glacier Point or take the sightseeing shuttle from Yosemite Lodge. After
enjoying the view from Glacier Point we will hike back down to the Valley via the Panorama and
John Muir trails. This route is primarily downhill but does involve an approximately one mile
climb of 1000’ elevation gain along the midsection of the hike. We will descend alongside the
Nevada Falls. This hike will provide us with fantastic views of waterfalls, Half Dome, North
Dome, Sentinel Dome, Liberty Cap, Mt Starr King and Yosemite Valley. Hiking time of about 6 to
7 hours depending upon number of photo stops!
TRIP #59---Hike to top of Yosemite Falls---7 miles (elevation gain 3000’, elevation loss 410’)
This trailhead is at historic Camp 4 where the rock climbers congregate for the climbing season.
It’s a 3.5 mile climb via 135 switchbacks to the top of the falls. From there those without a fear
of heights can descend some steps and ledges to an area which overlooks the top of the falls
straight down to the valley floor. We’ll continue on from here a bit further to the bridge which
crosses over the Yosemite Creek. We’ll have lunch and then descend back to the Valley on the
same trail. Hiking time 5 to 6 hours.
TRIP #66---Four Mile Trail---8.4 to 11 miles---(elevation gain 3240-3590’, elevation loss 20”)
This trail from the Valley floor up to Glacier Point (with possible side trip to Sentinel Dome)
affords views all the way up to the top of the trail. Once we reach Glacier Point we’ll have the
option of taking the Pohono trail up to Sentinel Dome for more fantastic views. We’ll then
retrace our steps down to the valley. Hiking time of 5 to 6 hours.
TRIP# 67---Happy Isles to top of Nevada Falls---6.5miles—(elevation gain 2100’)
We’ll take
the Valley shuttle to the Happy Isles stop. Initially we’ll walk along a paved path up to the base
of Vernal Falls (potable water and bathrooms available here). Then we’ll continue up the Mist
Trail via numerous granite steps to the top of Vernal Falls. From there the Mist trail continues
via steps and switchbacks to the top of Nevada Falls. From there we will cross over to the Muir
trail and return to Happy Isles. Hiking time 4 to 5 hours.
TRIP #65---Glacier point to Taft Point and the Fissures---6.6 to 9 miles-(elevation gain 400-900’)
We’ll start at Glacier Point and hike up to Sentinel Dome (if not previously visited on a prior
hike). We’ll travel on the Pohono trail to Taft point which overlooks the valley and El Capitan. If
you have binoculars, you’ll be able to watch any climbers who might be scaling El Capitan! The
rock fissures in this area are deep, scenic and dangerous so we’ll need to be careful as we walk
around and explore this plateau. From here we’ll return to Glacier point. Hiking time 4-5 hours.
TRIP #76---North Wawona to Chilnualna Falls---8.2 miles (elevation gain 2260’, elevation loss
50’) Pleasant climb through a forest of pine and incense cedar on a mostly moderately graded
trail to Chilnualna Falls. Along the way we’ll catch views of the Wawona area, Wawona Point to
the southeast and Wawona Dome to the east. This trail is slippery in spots and the falls area will
need to be explored cautiously as there is loose gravel and no protective railing!! Hiking time 5-6
hours.
9) TRIPS #53,54 and 55---Valley Trail from Yosemite Village to Bridalveil Falls--7-9 miles (elevation
gain about 800’) We’ll take the Valley shuttle and do sections of the Valley trail starting at
Yosemite Village. First we’ll explore the Visitor’s Center and Indian village and museum before
starting our Valley walk. We’ll walk along the trail from the village to the base of Yosemite Falls
then on to El Capitan and Bridalveil Falls. For those who don’t wish to do the entire walk, we’ll
be passing close to several shuttle bus stops so participants can hop on and return to Curry
Village is they so desire. Excursion time 3 to 5 hours.
10) TRIP #21---White Wolf to Lukens Lake—4.6 miles (elevation gain about 420’) We’ll start from
our campground and head east through a pine forest. The trail will cross the Middle Tuolumne
River and at least four glacial moraines before reaching the shore of Lukens Lake. Lukens Lake is
a 9 acre, shallow, warm lake surrounded by a mixed forest.
11) TRIP #24----Old Tioga Road to May Lake and Mount Hoffman---2.4 to 8.4miles (elevation gain
about 530’ to May Lake; about 2100’ to Mt Hoffman) We’ll drive to the trailhead for May Lake
and start the easy gentle hike to beautiful May Lake with Mt Hoffman as a backdrop. Conditions
permitting we will go on to ascend Mt Hoffman via a well-marked but unofficial trail. Mt
Hoffman is centrally located in Yosemite National Park and provides the best all-around views of
the park’s varied landscape.
12) TRIP #29---Tioga Road to Indian Rock and North Dome----9.2 miles (elevation gain about 2000’)
The trailhead is on the Tioga Road at Porcupine Creek. The trail initially is on an old logging road,
but quickly enters a beautiful wooded area with numerous species of wildflowers. This trail
travels downhill towards Yosemite Valley and at a junction we will veer off to the left and start
an uphill climb that will eventually bring us to the spur trail for Indian Rock. Depending upon
trail and weather conditions we may have the option of continuing downhill to North Dome for
more breathtaking views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley.
13) TRIP #42----Tenaya Lake to Clouds Rest----14 miles (elevation gain about 2500’) We’ll try to
take the Tuolumne/Tioga hiker shuttle to Tenaya Lake for the start of this gorgeous hike.
Although Cloud’s Rest is higher than Half Dome, it is easier and safer to climb and provides far
better views of the park than does Half Dome. The earlier in the day we start this hike the better
the light will be from the summit for photographs, and the safer the hike will be since
thunderstorms are a possibility in the mid to late afternoons. This trail will pass many
wildflowers, switchbacks, a pond and forests while also providing us with incomparable scenic
vistas.
14) TRIP #46---Tuolumne Meadows to Elizabeth Lake----5 miles (elevation gain about 820’) This is a
popular day hike to a scenic subalpine lake situated at 9508 feet. Unfortunately this trail is
sometimes plagued with mosquitoes so “bug spray” is important!
15) TRIP #48---Tuolumne Meadows to Lyell Canyon via the John Muir Trail----10 miles (elevation
gain about 200’) We’ll do a variation of the hike described in the guidebook, and take a direct
and relatively level route to Lyell Canyon. In the process we will cross a few creeks and see
grand views of the Kuna Crest, meadows and Ragged Peak as well as having an opportunity to
see deer, marmots and wildflowers.
PLEASE BEAR IN MIND THAT THE ABOVE LISTED HIKES ARE NOT NECESSARILY LISTED IN
CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER AND WE MAY NOT DO ALL OF THESE HIKES AND WE MAY DO A HIKE
THAT IS NOT LISTED! ACTUAL HIKES WILL BE DEPENDANT ON GROUP ABILITES AS WELL AS
RANGER RECOMMENDATIONS AND TRAIL CONDITIONS.
Lodging:
We will be lodging in Yosemite Valley for 4 nights at Curry Village in two person cabins (or
canvas tents if the cabins are not available). Breakfast will be cafeteria style at Curry pavilion
and dinner will also be at Curry Pavilion. Lunch is not included in the trip cost but can be
purchased from various locations within the park. Cabins/tents have beds, linens, towels
(changed daily), and electric lights; and shared bath/shower facilities nearby. Cooking and
eating are not allowed in the tent). All food and scented products must be stored in bear proof
containers provided on site. Trash needs to be disposed of in bear proof receptacles. Curry
Village is an economical, popular and centrally located lodging option in Yosemite Valley. You
may want to bring ear plugs as quiet time does not begin until 10PM.
Yosemite Valley offers a gift shop, a coffee and ice cream shop, amphitheater with nightly
programs, post office, outdoor swimming pool, and an excursion desk. You can walk to
Yosemite Falls from your lodge building.
Our second and third lodging locations will be White Wolf Lodge and the Tuolumne Meadows
Lodge, north of the Valley and just off the Tioga Pass Road. Housing will be very similar to Curry
Village but in a much more remote location (ie quieter) without electricity in the tents and each
tent will hold 2 to 4 persons.
Our last night prior to flying home will be spent at a hotel near San Francisco airport in order to
allow participants the option of an early morning flight home the next day.
Transportation:
We will use rented 7 passenger vans to transport the group from San Francisco Airport to/from
Yosemite Valley, baggage space will be limited. You will be advised as to what time to meet the
group in San Francisco for departure to Yosemite Valley.
In Yosemite National Park we will utilize the free and green Yosemite Shuttle service and the
Yosemite Hiker Shuttle service as much as possible. We will use our group vans for travel to
Mariposa Grove and Tioga Road.
Cost:
$2685; this Major Excursion cost includes lodging, vans, daily breakfast and dinner, park fees
and medical evacuation insurance. Please contact the trip leader or co leader for an application
and other necessary forms. You will be required to send a check or money order for $1000
made out to AMC in order to hold your spot.
Costs NOT included: Air travel to/from San Francisco, CA and your home; daily lunch and trail
snacks; souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, optional Yosemite tours and theater programs, travel
insurance. Airfare to San Francisco, CA from the east coast is estimated at $650 to 700 as of fall
2013.
Schedule of Payments:
Deposit:
$1000 with application
2nd Payment
$1685 on January 15th, 2015
Checks should be made payable to AMC – Adventure Travel
Checks should be mailed to: Ginette Beaudoin, 66 Graham St, Biddeford, ME 04005
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellation must be in writing and post marked prior to dates listed below:
Prior to January 15th- All money returned except $50 Non refundable portion
After January 15th----Cancellation fee is $200 plus any additional money necessary to keep the
trip cost from increasing and creating a greater expense to other trip participants. The
cancellation fee will be limited to $200, IF a qualified replacement can be found by the trip
leaders. We will establish a waiting list. This if you cancel and are not replaced, you will forfeit
the $200 plus the per capita expenses already incurred and any other unpaid expenses for
which the trip cannot obtain a refund. Your cancellation shall not raise the cost of the trip to
any of the participants or the leaders. You may forfeit the entire trip fee. Flight tickets once
purchased become your property and are generally non-refundable. We strongly recommend
that you purchase travel insurance. Information on a company recommended by the AMC will
be sent to you. Trip insurance is recommended, since an illness, accident or death in the family
can interfere with your plans. Trip insurance can be obtained through your travel agent or the
leaders will provide you with a brochure/information of a company recommended by AMC.
PLEASE NOTE: The price of the Major Excursion is given in good faith based on current tariffs
and rates and is subject to change. Any tariff/rate increases will be passed on to participants.
LIKEWISE: Any funds left over at the end of the trip once all the accounting has been reported
and accepted by AMC will be divided amongst the participants and refunded.
Air Costs:
Leaders will explore the best possible options for air travel. You will receive notification when
we are aware of a good fare. For this trip we estimate a range of $650 to 700 from the east
coast to San Francisco, CA. We will assist you in any way to make your reservations, but you
should not make any booking on your own without consulting the leaders. Once you purchase
air tickets, they are wholly owned by you. It is your responsibility to get yourself to Yosemite
Valley if your flight does not arrive in time to meet the group in San Francisco, CA.
Your Leaders:
LEADER: Ginette Beaudoin
Ginette has been a member of the AMC since 1988 and has led several day and weekend trips
in the White Mountains of NH, as well as various parts of Maine. She led AMC Adventure travel
trips to Neustift Austria in 2011/2012; to Yosemite in 2012 and 2013 and to Minnesota in 2013.
She is scheduled to lead AMC Adventure Travel trips to the Azores, Yosemite NP, Glacier NP and
Dolomites in 2014. She co led an alpine hiking Major Excursion to Neustift, Austria in July 2009
with 19 participants. She has participated in numerous AMC Major Excursions to Yellowstone
National Park, Germany, Switzerland and Austria involving hiking and cross country skiing. She
has hiked in the Stubai Valley of Austria and hiked to 15 high Alpine huts throughout Austria,
Germany and Switzerland. She has hiked the NH 4000 footers and is working on the NE 4000
footers. Her interests include hiking, photography, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, travel
and introducing others to outdoor activities.
ADDRESS:
66 Graham Street, Biddeford, ME 04005
PHONE:
(207)-590-4431, (207)-282-5151
EMAIL ADDRESS:
ginette4000@yahoo.com
CO-LEADER: Anna Panszczyk
Anna Panszczyk is a Boston Chapter INTRO (AMC) Leader. Anna has co led AMC Adventure
Travel excursions to Morocco, Yosemite and Minnesota. Anna leads trips in the White
Mountains and most recently led an excursion to Ghost Ranch in New Mexico and to Mt Rainier
and Olympic National Parks in Washington as well as Yellowstone National Park. Anna spends
part of each summer backpacking as a Sierra Club participant. This is in addition to trips that
she takes to all corners of the world. Anna has recently completed a SOLO Advanced
Wilderness First Aid course.
ADDRESS:
22 Alfred Rd, Arlington, MA 02474
PHONE:
(781)-648-2492; (617)-429-2175
EMAIL ADDRESS:
annatp13@verizon.net