Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 1

Spring in Yosemite

“Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in a while, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.” -John Muir Trip Packets Pricing, Dates & Booking Our PDF Trip Packets are being For current pricing, trip dates updated all the time. Ensure you & online reservations please have the most recent version by see our website. clicking here. Last Published: June 16, 2020

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 2

Trip Overview

Yosemite National Park is easily one of the most dramatic and spectacular alpine landscapes in the world. From the soaring heights of El Capitan and Half-Dome to the dramatic fields of mountain wildflowers and mesmerizing waterfalls – Yosemite is really a photographer’s paradise. Sculpted by glaciers, is one of the most dramatically beautiful alpine landscapes in the world. It’s rounded granite domes tower thousands of feet over an idyllic valley floor with rushing streams pouring into the lovely Merced River. From atop Yosemite’s lofty heights, snow melts into raging waterfalls that cascade down its solid rock faces creating a photographic tapestry like none other in the world. Our Spring in Yosemite Photography Tour/Workshop offers an impressive array of opportunities for both amateur and experienced photographers alike. We time this trip to coincide with peak waterfall

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 3 season in the spring of the year. As the snow melts in the high country – Yosemite’s waterfalls rush to life. This is also a great time of year for Alpine Wildflowers and Rainbows shining off of the mists in the various falls. Our experienced photography guides have been exploring the Sierra Nevada for the past decade and will offer their wealth of knowledge on this photographic endeavor into the old stomping grounds of Ansel Adams. Our small groups will allow you plenty of one on one time with your instructors so you can focus on improving your craft. Instructors will be on hand teaching a wealth of insider tips & tricks on Yosemite specific landscape photography. The Spring in Yosemite Photography Tour aims to place you right in the action at Yosemite’s iconic spots. Rainbows, Waterfalls, Wildflowers and big, wide-open landscapes abound! We’ll be photographing Upper Yosemite Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Nevada Falls, Vernal Falls and more as we comb Yosemite Valley for photo opportunites. We’ll also photograph the big granite domes such as El Capitan, Sentinel and Half-Dome as well as many locations on the valley floor. Every good photographer knows that it’s all about the light – and our photography guides will make sure you’re in the right place at the right time during the best lighting conditions. You will be part of a small group led by professional photographers and staying at our wonderful lodge nestled in the pines. After a long day of hiking and photographing in Yosemite we’ll kick back at the lodge with a great meal, photo reviews, instructor presentations and probably some good laughs as well! Join us in Yosemite this year for during our Spring photography tour for an unforgettable experience. Yosemite is a photographic mecca unlike just about anywhere else!

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 4

Highlights • Waterfalls, Rainbows, Half-Dome, Upper Falls & more!

• Photograph Yosemite’s iconic spots such as Bridal Veil Falls, Nevada & Vernal Falls

• Yosemite Valley Photography including Tunnel View, Valley View and Yosemite Meadows

• Stunning Views

• Small Groups

• Cozy lodges

• Learn from & shoot alongside a seasoned pro

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 5

Noteworthy Travel Logistics • This trip begins & ends in Fresno, California • We will meet at our hotel in Fresno at 5pm on Day One.

Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Fresno Convention Center* 2233 Ventura Street, Fresno, California, 93721, USA +1-559-268-1000

*Please note: Exact hotel is subject to change - equivalent hotel may be substituted. If you are planning on arriving early or staying late please contact us. • The airport to fly in/out is Yosemite Fresno International (FAT) • We should be back in Fresno no later than 2pm on the last day of the trip. • Your hotel will have a complimentary airport shuttle – just call 24 hours in advance to schedule your pick-up! Transportation On-Tour • We will provide ground transportation throughout the trip from Fresno, California into and back. If you have a vehicle you can leave it at our lodge.

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 6

Itinerary Please note: We offer both a “standard” and “hiker” version of this trip for photographers who like to get out and hike! Not sure which one suits you best? Give us a call at 928-478-1521 or fill out the contact form below! Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day One (Travel Day)(D)

“Standard” Itinerary, and “Hiker” Itinerary

We will meet at our hotel in Fresno at 5pm the first evening of the trip for an orientation and welcome dinner.

Day Two (B,L,D)

Hiker Itinerary: Mileage 6-9 miles 1000-1900 feet elevation gain. Easier options are possible

We’ll begin with a trek along the Mist Trail to photograph both Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls – two of Yosemite’s most impressive waterfalls. These gems are best photographed in mid-morning during even light. Liberty Cap, Grizzly Peak, the Panorama Cliffs, Sentinel Dome, and even will be rising all around us during this wonderful full-day trek. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch in the high country next to an impressive waterfall overlook before descending back to the valley floor. This evening with weather conditions permitting, we’ll drive up to what many consider the most impressive vantage point in Yosemite – Glacier Point. This dramatic, awe-inspiring viewpoint looks straight down into Yosemite Valley, 3,000 vertical feet below. We can gaze across the Valley to take in the entire plunge of Yosemite Falls, and get an up- close and personal view of Half-Dome as well as Nevada and Vernal Falls. This is an iconic sunset shot in which we’ll make sure to spend the necessary time to capture it just right.

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 7

After shooting well into the evening we’ll retire to our cozy lodge. “Standard” Itinerary: We will catch the early morning light at one of the many accessible viewpoints in the park. This evening with weather conditions permitting, we’ll drive up to what many consider the most impressive vantage point in Yosemite – Glacier Point. This dramatic, awe-inspiring viewpoint looks straight down into Yosemite Valley, 3,000 vertical feet below. We can gaze across the Valley to take in the entire plunge of Yosemite Falls, and get an up- close and personal view of Half-Dome as well as Nevada and Vernal Falls. This is an iconic sunset shot in which we’ll make sure to spend the necessary time to capture it just right. After shooting well into the evening we’ll retire to our cozy lodge.

Day Three (B,L,D)

“Hiker” Itinerary: 4-5 miles, minimal elevation gain. We will be up and at ‘em early for a pre-dawn drive to Valley View for epic sunrise reflection shots of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Cathedral Rocks with the Merced River in the foreground. After our sunrise photography session we’ll spend the day hiking the nuances of Yosemite Valley. This will be an easier day on foot and we’ll spend some quality time on photographic instruction and rest up for the evening’s session at Tunnel View and a big day tomorrow. This evening we’ll head to Tunnel View which has arguably one of the best sunset spots in all of Yosemite. This incredible vista popularized by Ansel Adams is an iconic image that we will spend some time getting just right. From the vantage at Tunnel View you can see El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, Cathedral Rocks and Half-Dome. After Tunnel View we’ll head over and depending on the season (spring is best) we’ll see if we can’t find and photograph a moonbow over Lower Yosemite Falls! The exact itinerary on this day may be swapped around

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 8 depending on the lighting and cloud cover so we can ensure you get optimal lighting conditions for your imagery. “Standard” Itinerary: We will be up and at ‘em early for a pre-dawn drive to Valley View for epic sunrise reflection shots of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Cathedral Rocks with the Merced River in the foreground we will have loads of time to Photograph this beautiful location. This evening we’ll head to Tunnel View which has arguably one of the best sunset spots in all of Yosemite. This incredible vista popularized by Ansel Adams is an iconic image that we will spend some time getting just right. From the vantage at Tunnel View you can see El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, Cathedral Rocks and Half-Dome. After Tunnel View we’ll head over and depending on the season (spring is best) we’ll see if we can’t find and photograph a moonbow over Lower Yosemite Falls! The exact itinerary on this day may be swapped around depending on the lighting and cloud cover so we can ensure you get optimal lighting conditions for your imagery.

Day Four (B,D)

“Hiker” Itinerary: seven miles, 1000 feet elevation gain. Easier options are possible.

After a late breakfast we’ll drive to our trailhead along the Tioga Pass Road for a hike to Cathedral Lake. This is an excellent hike into the high country that will position us for some wonderful late afternoon photography. Our destination is upper Cathedral Lake – a stunning alpine lake in lovely granite meadows with Cathedral Peak towering above it. In the right light this can be one of the most dramatic images in all of Yosemite.

Before our hike we will climb to the top of the dome at Olmsted Point and look east to see , Mt. Conness, and many other High

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 9

Sierra peaks. To the west is Cloud’s Rest, just left of Half Dome; across , facing Half Dome, is serene Mt. Watkins. After a great day photographing in the field it’s back to the Lodge for a much deserved gourmet dinner, rest and relaxation! “Standard Itinerary”

We’ll begin today with a pre-dawn drive to Olmsted Point, one of the best locations to photograph Yosemite in the morning light. The view west from Olmsted Point, down Tenaya Canyon toward Yosemite Valley, provides a unique and striking perspective of Half Dome. Foreground opportunities include glacial erratics (boulders deposited by retreating glaciers), round indentations that fill with water after a rain, linear grooves, very unique trees, and even a few wildflowers if we’re lucky. After a great day photographing in the field it’s back to the Lodge for a much deserved gourmet dinner, rest and relaxation!

Day Five (B,L,D)

“Hiker” Itinerary: Five miles, 1400 feet elevation gain. Easier options are possible. This morning we’ll photograph Upper Yosemite Falls from the Swinging Bridge. This is an excellent viewpoint that tends to get its best light mid-morning and features stunning reflections and dramatic views of the Upper Falls. After photographing this location we’ll hike the falls, which is one hike you’ll never forget! The Upper Yosemite Falls Trail promises a challenging, steep work out with up-close views of ’s highest waterfall and panoramic views of Yosemite Valley. Beginning at Camp 4, the legendary epicenter of Yosemite’s big wall climbing era, the trail ascends numerous switchbacks to Columbia Point, where Half Dome dominates an awe-inspiring view of Yosemite Valley. Beyond the point, the impressive Upper Yosemite Falls comes into view, offering a refreshing spray of mist along with the thundering sight of tons of

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 10 water dropping straight down 1430 ft. After climbing switchbacks through a break in the Valley wall, the trail tops out on the rim in a forest of impressive Jeffrey pines. Here we will photograph Yosemite Falls from above in the beautiful evening light before heading back down the trail.

“Standard” Itinerary: This morning we’ll photograph Upper Yosemite Falls from the Swinging Bridge. This is an excellent viewpoint that tends to get its best light mid-morning and features stunning reflections and dramatic views of the Upper Falls. We will spend the afternoon critiquing and reviewing previous photographs from the trip from the comfort of our in-park lodging. Weather permitting we will venture out to photograph other iconic landscapes within the park particularly during the more fanciful evening light.

Day Six (B,L)

“Hiker” Itinerary: Four miles, 500 feet elevation gain.

Today’s hike takes us into Yosemite’s biggest trees – the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoia trees. After some important photographic instruction regarding photographing these early giants we’ll hike the lower and upper loops snapping shots of Wawona Valley and the 2700 year old Grizzly Giant tree, as well as getting in-depth photographs of several other Giant Sequoia trees in the grove. This will be our final stop in Yosemite. We’ll leave this once-in-a-lifetime adventure with unforgettable memories, enhanced landscape photography skills, and digital cards full of stunning images! Standard Itinerary: Today’s hike takes us into Yosemite’s biggest trees – the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoia trees. We will give you some important photographic instruction regarding photographing these early giants. This will be our final stop in Yosemite. We’ll leave this once-in-a-

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 11 lifetime adventure with unforgettable memories, enhanced landscape photography skills, and digital cards full of stunning images!

Please Note: Please note that the exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and nature photography we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions regarding wildlife or natural phenomena.

Trip Details

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 12

Physical Requirements All participants must be in good physical condition and have the ability to hike/ walk with camera equipment and essential hiking gear. For example, tripod, camera, lense(s), sunscreen, water (up to 2 liters person), snacks, and extra layers (if necessary). The weight of your pack largely depends on what gear you choose to bring on each hike. Typically backpacks weigh between 15 and 20 lbs. For those serious photography buffs packs could reach 35 lbs! But remember the choice is yours

Solely for the “Hiker” Itinerary our tour participants must also be able to hike several miles each day between 4 and 8 miles per day for several days in a row. These hikes will be on some trails with uneven and occasionally steep terrain.

Group Size We keep groups small to maximize your one on one time with the guide/instructor. Trip Length 6 days Mileage “Hiker” Itinerary: Approximately 25-30 miles for the duration of the trip. “Standard” Itinerary: Approximately 3 miles for the duration of the trip. Pack Weight 15-30 lbs Fitness Level: “Hiker” Itinerary: Moderate to strenuous hikes from 4-8 miles a day on uneven and sometimes very steep terrain. “Standard” Itinerary: No more than 1 mile in a day and under three miles for the duration of the trip. Meeting Time and Place

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 13

5pm on Day One in the lobby of our hotel in Fresno, CA.

Trip Conclusion Fresno, CA at approximately 2 pm on the last day of the tour.

Price/Start Dates:

Please see our website for current Spring in Yosemite Pricing and Dates

Accommodation We will be staying in Fresno, CA the first night of the trip and then at the a lodge in Yosemite Valley for the remainder of the trip

Meals Most meals are included during the trip dates and we typically eat at park lodges in the evening. We often eat snacks and prepare lunch on the trail. We typically return for a late breakfast or eat breakfast on the road during photography trips as we are often out early to capture the morning light. There will be one evening with dinner on your own.

Weather Expect warm pleasant days and chilly nights. The weather is generally somewhat adverse in the fall however it makes for breathtaking photos. Remember some of the best photographs are made before, during and immediately after a storm cycle. There is no such thing as bad weather just poor layering and gear choices – please plan accordingly! For more info on what to bring please email or call us. Make sure you are prepared for rain!

General links to Weather Conditions: Little Yosemite Valley Weather forecast and Tioga Pass Weather forecast We recommend checking the weather prior to your trip departure to plan your gear and clothing packing accordingly.

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 14

Price Includes Most meals, ground transportation, accommodation during the trip dates from the evening of Day One through the morning of Day Six, professional photography instruction, park entrance fees, medically certified wilderness guide, & gratuities for service personnel such as drivers, pilots, captains as well as hotel & restaurant staff.

Price Does Not Include Airfare, alcoholic beverages, accommodations before or after the trip dates, Souvenirs, some meals & trip leader gratuities (industry standard is typically 10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience.)

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 15

Conditioning for Photography Trips (for the “Hiker” Itinerary only) “Hiker” Itinerary: We will be hiking between 4-8 miles per day typically. The better shape you’re in, the more you will enjoy the trip. Even if you are very athletic, we recommend walking as often as possible with 15-20 pounds in your backpack, wearing the boots you plan to hike in. You can alternate this with other cardiovascular & strength routines. Balance is critical on rough ground. Whatever you can do to improve your balance will pay big dividends. Always consult your physician before commencing with a workout program. Training by Hiking The absolute best way to train is by doing the activity you are training for. If you live where there are trails with 1. Uneven, rocky surfaces 2. Steep terrain 3. And where you can hike several miles Begin by training with a light backpack and hike at least 3 times/week. The most difficult part of hiking for most beginners is the terrain with uneven footing, the next is the steepness or incline of a trail or hike, then the distance. Unless you are already in very good shape it is best to start training at least 3 months before your trip. If where you live there are no hills, or steep uneven trails your next best bet would be walking stairs; for example, hiking up and down stairs will work muscles used in both uphill and downhill hiking activities. Find a building with many stories, or a stadium with many steps for your training ground. Make sure all the while that you use the boots you plan to bring on the tour during your training. Next to increase your cardiovascular fitness you will probably need to implement some cross training, and additional cardio activities into your training unless you live and train at high altitude already. A few of

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 16 the hikes will reach more than 5,000 feet in elevation! That is similar in elevation to the mile-high city of , to put it in perspective. Cardiovascular fitness, as well as proper pre-hydration shortly before your trip will immensely improve your experience as well as others’ experience on the tour, drink at least two liters of water per day as least 3 days before your trip starts! Additional Training activities include: • Bike or walk to commute to work or run errands, carry your work supplies in a backpack if you are walking. Make time for an afternoon or morning bike ride. This will help increase your cardiovascular fitness as well as increase strength and endurance in your legs. • Join a gym to utilize their classes or equipment. Many gyms have stair climbers, treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes. All of which will help with your cardiovascular fitness. • Swimming is a great way to build endurance and cardiovascular fitness and is easy on the joints. • Yoga and/or Pilates classes are the best way to increase your flexibility and stability, both of which are very important for hiking on uneven terrain with weight on your back. • Jogging or running can be great for cardiovascular fitness, however be careful implementing this activity into your training unless you are already a runner, or jogger. Running without proper supplemental training can cause injuries. Lodging & Meals Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours & Workshops include most meals, lodging from Day One through the morning of the last day of the tour, ground transportation while on the tour, National Park entrance fees, guide fees and other items essential to a successful trip – meaning that once you are there all you will have to focus on is your photography. We can accommodate most special diets so please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions!

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 17

Gear List

This gear list should answer a lot of your gear questions so please read through this carefully. If you still have questions, please give us a call. Your clothing should be a system of layers that you add and subtract according to the weather and temperature. A good pair of good synthetic “Smartwool” type socks under sturdy boots works well. Clothing should be light-weight nylon pants (maybe base-layers), a polypro shirt and either a sunhat or warm hat depending on the weather. As weather conditions change add insulating and waterproof layers to your base setup. Don’t bring any cotton clothing. Cotton is not a good insulator and once it gets wet it takes forever to dry. Absolutely no jeans! Photo and Field Gear

Please Note: The following is the packing list for the “Standard” and the “Hiker” Itinerary. If an item specifically pertains only to the Hiker Itinerary, it will be followed by the words “Hiker” Itinerary. If an item pertains only to the Standard Itinerary, it will be followed by the words: “Standard” Itinerary. All other items pertain to both trips. Recommended Camera Gear: • DSLR or Mirrorless Camera. (Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic etc.) • Medium telephoto zoom Lens (100–400mm zoom or equivalent) • Wide-angle Lens (10-20mm, 16-35mm or equivalent zoom) • Normal Lenses (ranging from approximately 35mm to 100mm) • Sturdy but lightweight Tripod (must be able to carry this for hikes) • Memory Cards • Batteries & Chargers • Filters such as a circular polarizer and neutral density • Lens cleaning pen & cloth • Camera Day Pack (this should appropriately carry all your camera & hiking gear and have a rain cover) • Camera Rain Sleeve

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 18

Optional (but recommended) Camera Gear: • Back-Up Camera Body • Long fixed telephoto lens: 500mm or 600mm • Macro lense • 1.4x tele converter • Laptop Computer with Lightroom / Photoshop Pre-Installed (for personal use in hotels for downloading images while on tour) • External Hard Drives • Remote Shutter Trigger • Camera’s Instruction Manual

Suggested Field Gear & Clothing: • Personal Field Clothing (think layers) • Warm top, such as a long-sleeved sweater or fleece jacket • Long pants, or convertible hiking pants, one pair of leggings or lightweight trousers to block sun and give warmth at night • Warm Hat & Gloves (This is a Must!) • Down Jacket • “Softshell” Jacket lightly insulated windproof/breathable jacket for layering and protection from wind • Long Underwear (synthetic top & bottom) • Shorts & T-Shirts for on the trail during warmer temperatures • Hiking Socks (Smartwool, Darn Tough etc.) • Brimmed Sun Hat • Sunglasses • Sturdy Hiking Boots “Hiker” Itinerary • Good walking or tennis shoes “Standard” Itinerary • Casual wear, for your evenings off the trail • Water Bottle or Hydration System (2 liters) • Rain shell, waterproof/breathable jacket • Rain Pants • Gaiters (optional) “Hiker” Itinerary • Headlamp (with extra batteries, for sunrise and sunset shoots) • Shooting Gloves • Binoculars (optional) • Trekking poles (optional) “Hiker” Itinerary

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com Backcountry Journeys – Spring in Yosemite 19

• Sunscreen • Bug spray • Knee pads (for low-angle shooting) • Personal toiletries & medications • Money, for tipping your guide (industry standard is generally 10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience), and for any personal expenses not included in the tour package such as alcoholic beverages, a few of the meals, souvenirs, etc.

This is a general list. Please call with any questions!

Note on Packing for the tour: Please pack your extra clothing, toiletries, extra camera gear, and other travel items into a suitcase, duffel or travel bag. You will not bring all your camera gear on every hike or outing. Each evening you will be briefed on which lenses, filters, etc. you will need to carry the following day on the scheduled tour or hike.

Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com