Family Programs: A number of a hands-on activities involve parents and children while learning about Yosemite National Park. Each session is three hours and may cover geology, Indians, wildlife, rivers and aquatic life, sensory awareness, forest ecology and sense of place. Groups will participate in activities such as blindfold hikes, insect studies, games revolving around wildlife and storytelling. The cost is $10 or ages 4-14 and $10 for more than adults. There is no charge when just two adults accompany children. Meeting place is at the Curry Village Amphitheater from June 24 through Sept. 1. You should bring water, snacks, a daypack, bug repellent, sunscreen, a camera and rain gear (optional).

Kids Night: Kids 7-12 can send their parents off and enjoy stories, crafts, dinner and activities in a fun and educational manner. The program will begin at Degnan's Deli in the heart of Yosemite Valley. Some of the activities may include geology, Ahwahneechee Indian stories and games. The cost is $12.50 per child and $10 for each additional sibling. For more information: 1-800-436-7275.

Twilight Strolls: Take a relaxing stroll at the end of the day and see highlights of Yosemite's natural beauty. It is a 1-mile walk with views of the Merced River, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, the Royal Arches and Glacier Point. A park guide will lead you with talks about cultural and natural history. Meeting point is at the Ahwahnee patio. For times please call: 1-800-436-7275.

Another nighttime activity is "Starry Skies" and all you need is a blanket, chair or towel, a flashlight and warm clothes. There is a $5 per person charge or a $20 charge for families. Participants will walk a short distance (about 1/4 mile) to an open meadow, and hear about constellations, planets, meteors, special events and stories of the night sky. Tickets for this one-hour program may be purchased at any lodging facility, tour desks.

Evening Slides & Talks: Free talks are given by photographers about their images of Yosemite, pictures of the great outdoors, wildlife, history and the winter ecology. Other guest speakers discuss history and different types of animals found in the park, along with fun facts and cultural history.

Campfire Talks: For $5, campers can enjoy a campfire filled with songs, stories, and s'mores. The campfire is located near Camp Curry in Yosemite Valley and will involve a short walk or shuttle bus ride. This program is wheelchair accessible. Rain gear may be needed; also bring extra clothing, a flashlight and a bottle of water. All tickets may be purchased at any of the lodging facilities and tour desks. For dates and times, call 1-800-436-7275.

Theater: In 2002, the Yosemite Theater holds their 20th anniversary. With actor Lee Stetson, performing an hour show of "The Spirit of John Muir," true stories of his encounters with nature, and "Conversations With a Tramp," includes tales of John Muir's adventures in the Hetch Hetchy Valley in Yosemite. Tickets can be purchased at any of the tour desks with prices of $7 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. For locations and times, please call: 1-800-436-7275.

Back to top

Visitor Guide | Activities | Resources | Photo Gallery