Wild Awareness

Nurture yourself with connection to sacred space on this 4-day backpacking retreat in Yosemite’s high alpine landscapes. The journey will offer participants invigorating hiking opportunities, daily yoga and meditation sessions, and delicious, wholesome local organic food. As we move deeper into the external wilderness of Yosemite, we will practice self-nurturing techniques to navigate and re-calibrate our internal wilderness. There will be opportunities to spend time alone in silence, as well as to share in meaningful community experiences in stunning settings. Tuition assistance is available.

Highlights:

• • Two optional yoga classes each day
  • Morning meditation instruction and practice
  • The opportunity to participate in a facilitated “solo” experience in a safe-feeling environment
  • Spontaneous river or alpine lake dips
  • Hiking and gentle peak climbs in Yosemite’s unparalleled wilderness
  • Fresh meals include local and organic ingredients

Tentative Itinerary

Thursday
We will meet at the trailhead at 9 am on our first morning. We will take time for introductions and trip orientation. Next we will have thorough instruction on what and how to pack our packs and then be on our merry way. It may take us the entirety of the day to arrive at camp. We will stop for breaks and to enjoy the scenery. We’ll enjoy a delicious dinner after yoga as the Range of Light, bathed in alpenglow, lives up to its reputation. Evenings may include fireside stories, music, or gazing at the Milky Way from the cozy comfort of our sleeping bags.

Friday and Saturday
The next days allow us to adapt to the natural rhythms of the planet and flow with the specific needs and desires of the group. After a morning yoga session and breakfast, we may pack our packs and journey out on a day hike through some of Yosemite’s finest scenery, or move camp to a new location. We may now feel a settling in to our new home among granite domes and peaceful lake waters. In addition to the adventure of backpacking, each day provides opportunities for swimming in alpine lakes, day-hikes to sweeping views of the High Sierra, and perhaps relaxing in our backcountry “hammock lounge”. Evenings are set aside for dharma talks, wilderness education, creative journaling, music-making, or quiet contemplation around the campfire.

Sunday
Our last morning, we will enjoy a final yoga class and meditation before sharing our final breakfast together in the field. Then we will pack our backpacks and begin hiking to the exit trailhead. After putting closure on our journey together, we will aim to conclude by 2 p.m.

Note on Itinerary: This schedule is an outline. It is subject to change depending on the needs of the group and allowing for spontaneous inspiration. Almost all of the activities offered are optional. This program operates rain or shine.

Packing list for this trip available here

Price Includes

Professional instruction and guiding, campground fees, Wilderness permit fees, first-aid supplies, and group gear for backpacking and camping. Balanced Rock provides delicious and high-quality meals, so you can relax and be nourished.

Not Included

Transportation to and from your hometown to Yosemite, park entrance fees, and personal items.

Cancelation Policy available here