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Spring in Yosemite (Hiker)
Lodge-Based Photo Workshop
Upcoming Departures
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Trip Leader(s)
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Starting From [Block//Current Price]
Single Supplement: +$550.00
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Deposit: $2,000.00
Start/End
Fresno, CA / Fresno, CA
Length
6 Days/5 Nights
Fitness Level
Level 3 - What's This?
Group Size
Up To 0 Guests
Highlights
- Explore the world-class landscapes of Yosemite National Park during peak waterfall season
- Capture the majestic beauty of iconic landmarks like Upper Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half-Dome
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of wildflowers and witness rainbows in the mist of waterfalls
- Benefit from personalized attention and guidance in small groups led by professional photographers
If you have any questions about a trip, itinerary, or gear, our Photo Experience Coordinators are available for a personalized one-on-one consultation to provide all the details you need.
Trip Description:
Yosemite National Park, a photographer's paradise, showcases grand landscapes, soaring granite domes, and some of the tallest waterfalls on the planet. Its awe-inspiring granite domes, such as El Capitan and Half Dome, tower over the picturesque valley floor adorned with rushing streams and the tranquil Merced River. As the snow melts in the high country during spring, Yosemite's waterfalls come alive in a symphony of cascading beauty, creating a captivating tapestry for photographers to capture.
Our Spring in Yosemite photo workshop is designed for photographers of all levels. This carefully timed trip coincides with the peak waterfall season, when the pristine alpine landscape is adorned with vibrant wildflowers and rainbows dancing amidst the mist of the falls. Led by experienced photography guides, who intimately know the Sierra Nevada, you'll delve into the footsteps of legendary photographer Ansel Adams, gaining valuable insights and Yosemite-specific techniques to enhance your craft.
Experience Yosemite's iconic locations during our photography tour. From Upper Yosemite Falls to Bridal Veil Falls, Nevada Falls, and Vernal Falls, we'll navigate Yosemite Valley to seize incredible photo opportunities. The grand granite domes, including El Capitan, Sentinel, and Half Dome, will also be part of our photographic exploration, as well as the scenic spots scattered across the valley floor. Our photography guides understand the importance of lighting, ensuring you're in the right place at the right time to capture Yosemite's ethereal beauty.
Throughout the tour, you'll be part of a small group led by professional photographers, fostering an intimate learning environment. Rest and rejuvenate in our cozy lodge nestled among the pines within the park, where you'll indulge in delicious meals, engage in photo reviews, attend instructor presentations, and share laughter with fellow photography enthusiasts. Yosemite's unparalleled charm combined with our expert guidance promises an unforgettable experience, making it a photographic mecca unlike anywhere else.
Join us this year for our spring photography tour in Yosemite and embark on a remarkable journey to capture the essence of this natural wonder.
Please note: We are excited to 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
Our Spring in Yosemite photo workshop is designed for photographers of all levels. This carefully timed trip coincides with the peak waterfall season, when the pristine alpine landscape is adorned with vibrant wildflowers and rainbows dancing amidst the mist of the falls. Led by experienced photography guides, who intimately know the Sierra Nevada, you'll delve into the footsteps of legendary photographer Ansel Adams, gaining valuable insights and Yosemite-specific techniques to enhance your craft.
Experience Yosemite's iconic locations during our photography tour. From Upper Yosemite Falls to Bridal Veil Falls, Nevada Falls, and Vernal Falls, we'll navigate Yosemite Valley to seize incredible photo opportunities. The grand granite domes, including El Capitan, Sentinel, and Half Dome, will also be part of our photographic exploration, as well as the scenic spots scattered across the valley floor. Our photography guides understand the importance of lighting, ensuring you're in the right place at the right time to capture Yosemite's ethereal beauty.
Throughout the tour, you'll be part of a small group led by professional photographers, fostering an intimate learning environment. Rest and rejuvenate in our cozy lodge nestled among the pines within the park, where you'll indulge in delicious meals, engage in photo reviews, attend instructor presentations, and share laughter with fellow photography enthusiasts. Yosemite's unparalleled charm combined with our expert guidance promises an unforgettable experience, making it a photographic mecca unlike anywhere else.
Join us this year for our spring photography tour in Yosemite and embark on a remarkable journey to capture the essence of this natural wonder.
Please note: We are excited to 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
What's Included
- All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
- All transportation during the workshop
- All lodging during the workshop
- All permits and park fees
- Professional photography guiding and instruction
- Gratuity for service staff
What's Not Included
Transportation to and from Fresno, California
Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
Lodging outside workshop dates
Alcoholic beverages
Souvenirs and personal items
Gratuity for photography guide(s). Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities
Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance - see plans here.
Trip Itinerary
Trip Itinerary
Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1 (Travel Day)(D)
We will meet at our hotel in Fresno the first evening of the trip for an orientation and welcome dinner.
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Hiker Itinerary: 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, Glacier Point and even Half Dome 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. After shooting well into the evening we’ll retire to our cozy lodge.
Day 3 (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.
Day 4 (B,D)
“Hiker” Itinerary: 2-4 miles, ~500 feet elevation gain
Today, we'll assess the weather and choose from a variety of hikes in the Yosemite Valley. We may find ourselves climbing up the valley for a view of El Capitan and Half Dome, or we may find ourselves in a sequoia grove.
Depending on road conditions, we may also venture along Tioga Road for some lesser photographed vantage points of Yosemite. After a great day photographing in the field it’s back to the lodge for a much deserved gourmet dinner, rest and relaxation!
Day 5 (B,L,D)
“Hiker” Itinerary: 5 miles, ~1200 feet elevation gain
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 North America’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 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.
Day 6 (B,L)
“Hiker” Itinerary: 4 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-lifetime adventure with unforgettable memories, enhanced landscape photography skills, and digital cards full of stunning images!
Day 1 (Travel Day)(D)
We will meet at our hotel in Fresno the first evening of the trip for an orientation and welcome dinner.
Day 2 (B,L,D)
Hiker Itinerary: 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, Glacier Point and even Half Dome 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. After shooting well into the evening we’ll retire to our cozy lodge.
Day 3 (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.
Day 4 (B,D)
“Hiker” Itinerary: 2-4 miles, ~500 feet elevation gain
Today, we'll assess the weather and choose from a variety of hikes in the Yosemite Valley. We may find ourselves climbing up the valley for a view of El Capitan and Half Dome, or we may find ourselves in a sequoia grove.
Depending on road conditions, we may also venture along Tioga Road for some lesser photographed vantage points of Yosemite. After a great day photographing in the field it’s back to the lodge for a much deserved gourmet dinner, rest and relaxation!
Day 5 (B,L,D)
“Hiker” Itinerary: 5 miles, ~1200 feet elevation gain
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 North America’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 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.
Day 6 (B,L)
“Hiker” Itinerary: 4 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-lifetime adventure with unforgettable memories, enhanced landscape photography skills, and digital cards full of stunning images!
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 landscape photography, we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions.
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Explore over 100 worldwide photo tours and workshops tailored to photographers of all skill levels, from iconic U.S. National Parks to Africa's untamed savannahs.
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Testimonials From Our Customers
Julie K.
"I have traveled with Backcountry Journeys (BCJ) several times over the last 4 years to Glacier NP, Costa Rica (2x), Smoky Mountains NP, Joshua Tree, Zion and Bryce NPs, and most recently to Alaska.
Every trip with BCJ has been an outstanding experience. The guides are professional photographers who put the experience of the guests first. They are willing to provide as much hands on help as you need/want. The guides are also extremely knowledgeable and well trained in wilderness safety as well as the areas they guide.
BCJ trips are well run from the time of reservation through the entire trip. They will take you to great places and find great photographic opportunities."
Every trip with BCJ has been an outstanding experience. The guides are professional photographers who put the experience of the guests first. They are willing to provide as much hands on help as you need/want. The guides are also extremely knowledgeable and well trained in wilderness safety as well as the areas they guide.
BCJ trips are well run from the time of reservation through the entire trip. They will take you to great places and find great photographic opportunities."
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Scott S.
"BCJ provides an outstanding experience for photographers of all levels of experience/expertise. Each day's excursion is well planned-out and the guides always have a back-up plan if the weather is less than cooperative.
I have now been on 5 trips and each one seems better than the last. I find the guides to be very helpful and personable. The guides provide the level of hands-on assistance each participant wants.
The accommodations are always good, taking into consideration what each particular destination has to offer. I plan to continue doing these trips with BCJ and can't recommend them highly enough."
I have now been on 5 trips and each one seems better than the last. I find the guides to be very helpful and personable. The guides provide the level of hands-on assistance each participant wants.
The accommodations are always good, taking into consideration what each particular destination has to offer. I plan to continue doing these trips with BCJ and can't recommend them highly enough."
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Katherine P.
"I have now been on 8 trips with Backcountry Journeys. I love traveling with this company, as I am a woman traveling alone, and all I have to do is show up and they take care of everything else.
They have wonderful, caring, helpful, FUN, and knowledgeable guides who make the days fly by. They get us to the best photography sites possible and are always willing to help with anything and answer all questions.
We stay in great places and there is always too much wonderful food! I have met other travelers on their trips who will be friends for life, plus the guides are more than guides--they become friends too. I know I will be doing more traveling with them in the future."
They have wonderful, caring, helpful, FUN, and knowledgeable guides who make the days fly by. They get us to the best photography sites possible and are always willing to help with anything and answer all questions.
We stay in great places and there is always too much wonderful food! I have met other travelers on their trips who will be friends for life, plus the guides are more than guides--they become friends too. I know I will be doing more traveling with them in the future."
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Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2024