Women of Color: Yoga and Backpacking in Yosemite

We've found that women-and specifically women of color-are highly under-represented in the backcountry. In this five-day course, we hope to share our love for the Yosemite wilderness by introducing women of color to the beauty of its backcountry in a safe and supportive environment. Trips are led by women of color.

Our core curriculum of yoga and reflection is incorporated on this trip as much as weather and time allows. Outdoor yoga classes on glacially polished granite expanses allow us to unwind after a day of hiking. Balanced Rock values time set aside for journal-writing and sharing in order to reflect on personal growth and achievements during the trip. There will be plenty of time to savor, and enjoy the mountain landscape of the high sierra.

Highlights:

• Backpacking, hiking, and camp-craft skills
• Shared adventure with other women of color
• Outdoor yoga, journal writing, and personal reflection
• 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. 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. 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 wilderness ethics, hiking and camp-craft, interwoven with yoga practice.

Our hiking pace allows for time to enjoy the presence of the tall trees, 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. Evenings may include guided mindfulness practice, sharing ideas, and free time to relax in the serenity and peace of the backcountry.

Friday and Saturday
The next two days will follow a similar schedule as we adapt to the rhythms of nature and adjust to the specific needs and desires of the group. There will be a combination of hiking, yoga, and solo time to complement the experience and joy of our connection with nature.

Sunday
We begin our last day with a final morning yoga session. After enjoying our last breakfast in the field, we 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?