Yosemite National Park

Q: What is the nature of this excursion?
A: This is a community-oriented yoga and backpacking adventure intended to inspire discovery within and without as we apply systematic yoga practices in the extraordinary atmosphere of Yosemite Valley National Park. It is intended for moderate to high fitness levels and will require different degrees of physical preparation depending on the individual.

Q: How difficult are the hikes?
A: The hikes are moderate to difficult.  Expect some days with 1,000–1,500 feet of elevation gain, and 1,000–3000 feet of elevation loss. Two days we will be hiking over 9,000 feet, and will experience added difficulty due to the altitude.

Q: How many days are we hiking?
A: We will be hiking all six days; on the first day we will be taking leisurely walks.

Q: How long are most of the hikes?
A: Expect to hike between 5 and 8 miles per day.

Q: What are the hiking trails like?
A: The hiking trails are a mix of packed dirt and rock.

Q: What will the weather be like? Should we expect rain?
A: The weather can range from low 80’s during the day to low 40’s at night. Rain becomes less and less likely in Yosemite in June, but it’s always advised to travel with a rain jacket or good poncho.

Q: What is the highest altitude on the trek?
A: Expect to exceed 10,000 feet in altitude.

Q: When should we arrive and depart? Where does the excursion begin and end?
A: Plan to arrive at Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo – San Francisco Airport, 2940 S Norfolk St, San Mateo, CA 94403, by 9:00 a.m. on June 22nd for our group transport to Yosemite. Our group transportation plans to return to the same Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo by 7:00 p.m. on June 28th.

Q: Is it ok to meet the group in Yosemite if I don’t want to take the group transportation?
A: Yes! We’ve organized group transportation from San Francisco to reduce rental car costs and logistics headaches for participants. However, if you’d like to make alternative arrangements for reaching Yosemite, then coordinate with our excursions team and plan to meet the group in Curry Village by 4 p.m. on June 22nd.

Q: How do I reach Yosemite National Park’s Curry Village [previously known as Half Dome Village]?
A: Travelers who fly to California can rent a car in San Francisco (4 hours away) or Sacramento (3 hours away). The public roads are maintained year-round—except for the eastern entrance on Tioga Road (Highway 120 through the park). Directions are easily available to navigate to Curry Village by car. Additionally, there is a bus service providing public transport to Yosemite. See YARTS.com

Q: How can I prepare for this hiking excursion?
A: Physical fitness and overall good health are important elements for an excursion like this. If you haven’t already, we suggest that you begin a regular practice for conditioning your body. Aerobic exercise is especially helpful to prepare for these hikes. One method is fast-walking, building up to a steady pace on inclines, hilly terrain, or stairs, and increasing distance..  We highly recommend walking regularly with your day pack (filled) and trekking poles and pushing yourself on some longer hikes whenever possible. Also, the yogic breathing techniques (pranayama) of kapalabhati, bhastrika, and nadi shodhanam (alternate nostril breathing) are also good preparation, as is the practice of agni sara to energize the solar plexus and help sustain vitality. These practices are best done regularly, starting with a few repetitions and progressing gradually according to your capacity. If you don’t know these techniques, we recommend visiting HI Online.