Discover, Learn & Explore
Yosemite Hospitality provides a variety of educational programs throughout the year about the park's natural and cultural heritage. All tours and activities are led by our local Yosemite expert guides certified by the National Association for Interpretation.
To find activities that work with your schedule, consult the Yosemite Guide, or see our listings below.
This 90-minute walking tour will take you on a nighttime exploration of some of Yosemite's natural areas. While on the tour you can expect to learn about sensory adaptations in humans and animals and the significance of protecting our dark skies.
While this is not a stargazing tour, you can expect to be dazzled by the stars over Yosemite on clear nights. The animals in Yosemite are not paid employees, so we can’t guarantee they’ll make an appearance.
*Personal flashlights/headlamps are required on this program. In winter, traction devices may be required. Due to variable conditions, this program may not be suitable for young children.
Where | Meets at the Yosemite Valley Lodge Amphitheater |
Departure |
Fall/Winter Spring/Summer *Time variations may occur depending on the season. Please confirm the start time on booking page. |
When |
Fall/Winter Spring/Summer |
Duration | 1.5 Hours Walking |
Reservations | Click the Plan Your Trip Now dropdown menu or Check Rates box (mobile devices) to book tickets online or call 888.413.8869 |
Cost | $20 |
Participants | Space is limited to 35 participants. Pre-registration is required. |
What to Bring |
Personal flashlights are required. In winter traction devices are highly advised and may be required depending on conditions. Temperatures are well below freezing at night in winter. We advise you to wear appropriate layered clothing including, a waterproof outer layer, hats, gloves, and waterproof shoes. For safety reasons, guests arriving unprepared for the conditions may be asked to leave the program. |
Accessibility | We can accommodate various special needs with advance notice. The program is wheelchair accessible. Please inform us of any needs before the program by emailing us at yh-interp@aramark.com |
Cancellation Policy | A 24-hour cancellation notice is required to receive a full refund. Canceling within 24 hours of tour departure will forfeit full value. Programs canceled by Yosemite Hospitality will receive a full refund. |
Join us for a free walk with a Yosemite Naturalist!
On this 1-hour tour, you will learn about Yosemite’s natural and cultural history through topics including geology, plant identification, adaptations of local flora and fauna, fire ecology, meadow science, and much more!
Where | Meets at the Yosemite Valley Lodge Amphitheater |
Departure | 2:00 pm |
When | Monday-Thursday. Please see Yosemite Guide for current listings. |
Duration | One hour covering approximately one mile of walking |
Reservations | No reservations are needed for this complimentary tour. If you have questions, please contact yh-interp@aramark.com. |
Cost | Free! |
Participants | Space is limited to 25 participants. |
What to Bring |
Please dress for the weather including comfortable footwear. Temperatures can be high in the summer, and you will be outside for the duration of the program, so be sure to bring sun protection, water, and snacks. |
Accessibility | We can accommodate various special needs with advance notice. The program is wheelchair-accessible. If possible, please inform us of any needs before the program by contacting yh-interp@aramark.com. |
Cancellation Policy | Cancellation Policy The schedule is subject to change. Cancellations may occur for various reasons without prior notice. |
We offer options for private tours throughout the year depending on availability and group size.
For more information, please email YH-Interp@aramark.com.
Looking for a fun and interactive indoor activity while visiting Badger Pass Ski Area? Join a Yosemite Naturalist for a Nature Journaling Class!
In this class, you will learn how to observe and record natural objects in new and exciting ways. This is a truly great activity for aspiring Naturalists and is most suitable for families with kids over five years old.
Nature Journal and other supplies are included in the lesson.
Please Note:
*While artistic expression is encouraged, this is not specifically an art class.
* This is not a snow activity.
*Kids under 12 will need to be accompanied by a guardian.
Where | Meets upstairs in the Badger Pass Day Lodge |
When |
January-March (Conditions permitting) Tuesday-Friday 1:00 pm-2:30 pm |
Duration | 1.5 Hours Indoor Class Setting |
Reservations | Book Now |
Cost | $15 Includes instruction and supplies. |
Participants | Space is limited to 20 participants. Pre-registration is required. |
What to Bring | Any art supplies you would like to bring as well as snacks and water. This is an indoor class that may venture outside so please dress for the weather. |
Accessibility | We can accommodate various special needs with advance notice. Please inform us of any needs before the program by emailing us at yh-interp@aramark.com. |
Cancellation Policy | A 24-hour cancellation notice is required to receive a full refund. Cancelling within 24 hours of the class will forfeit full value. Programs canceled by Yosemite Hospitality will receive a full refund. |