Special Events

Have you ever wondered what the forest is like after the sun sets?  Join the Sequoia Field Institute for an almost after-dark EdVenture down the Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road.  The focus of this walk will be on winter travel.  You will talk about proper gear and clothing to keep you safe and warm as you explore the forest in winter.  This walk will start at the Giant Forest Museum and will be moderately fast paced (it gets cold when you move too slowly) on a well-used trail past some of the biggest of the Big Trees.  You will take time for a snack at the Parker Group, continue to the Tunnel Log, say a quick thank you to Steven Mather at the memorial plaque, and then head back to the Giant Forest Museum parking lot.  It will take about four hours to walk the approximately three mile route.

When: January 7, 2012
Where: Moro Rock Road
Limit: 8 people
Age Limit: 16 years and older.  All minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Cost: $52 per person, or $45 for SNHA members.  Price includes snow shoes and poles, instruction and tips for success, natural history and engaging activities, and pre-trip planning assistance.
To Book: Visit Sequoia Field Institute EdVentures at http://www.sequoiahistory.org or call (559) 565-4251

The Giant Forest is home to the biggest of the big trees, but many of the largest named trees do not have signs.  Join the Sequoia Field Institute and wander the Giant Forest in search of these trees.  The focus of this walk will be on off-trail travel and reading a topographic map within a safe and well-used area of the park.  This will be a moderately challenging walk as you leave the marked trails behind to cross hills and meadows on a treasure hunt like no other.  You will begin near the General Sherman tree and head into the heart of Giant Forest.  Be prepared to spend most of the day walking in the snow-covered forest.  Because you will be navigating using maps and topography of the area, this trip is dependent upon weather.  The total mileage should be about 6 miles and involves short climbs.

When: February 11, 2012
Where: Circle Meadow in Giant Forest
Limit: 8 people
Age Limit: 16 years and older.  All minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Cost: $52 per person, or $45 for SNHA members.  Price includes snow shoes and poles, instruction and tips for success, natural history and engaging activities, and pre-trip planning assistance.
To Book: Visit Sequoia Field Institute EdVentures at http://www.sequoiahistory.org/ or call (559) 565-4251

The Sequoia Field Institute first offered this course in 2011 and the group spontaneously created the follow-up Pear Lake Ski Hut trip.  Last year's "climbers" considered the Hump trip really fulfilling and inspiring.

The High Sierra, the alpine and subalpine region of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, account for the majority of these parks.  And you want to see them - in the winter.  The Pear Lake Ski Hut makes exploring more comfortable for those who prefer a bunk to an igloo.  But what about THE HUMP, with its 2,150 foot elevation gain in just 2.5 miles?  Well, join the Sequoia Field Institute and check it out!  This will be a challenging full-day trial of your winter travel skills as you make your way to the top where you will meet John Nelson, the Pear Lake hut caretaker.  After a well-deserved rest and replenishing lunch, you will head back to the trail head, confident in your ability to travel safely, snow or shine, into this winter wonderland.  Total mileage is 5 miles.  Elevation gain is 2,150 feet.

When: March 10, 2012
Where: Pear Lake trail to The Hump
Limit: 8 people
Age Limit: 18 years and older.
Cost: $52 per person, or $45 for SNHA members.  Price includes snow shoes and poles, instruction and tips for success, natural history and engaging activities, and pre-trip planning assistance.
To Book: Visit Sequoia Field Institute EdVentures at http://www.sequoiahistory.org or call (559) 565-4251

Reward Yourself!

This strenuous journey will be the grand finale of the Sequoia Field Institute's winter snowshoe EdVentures.  Put all of your winter skills to use as you travel into the High Sierra to explore and enjoy the splendor of the mountains in winter.  This multi-day adventure will begin at the Wolverton / Pear Lake trail head with a challenging six-mile walk over The Hump and out to the historic Pear Lake Ski Hut.  On the second day you will explore the majestic beauty of the gently rolling Table Lands.  Day three will be spent relaxing in and around the hut or exploring the area around Skier's Alta.  After a good night's sleep, you will make your way back to Wolverton.  Snowshoers should have their own snowshoes with crampons and a set of ski poles.  The Institute will coordinate meals for convenience, economy, and enjoyment.  Total mileage to Pear Lake Ski Hut is 6.25 miles with an elevation gain of 2,200 feet on your first day.  You can do it!

When: March 30-April 2, 2012
Where: Pear Lake trail
Limit: 5 people
Age Limit: 18 years and older.
Cost: $298 per person, or $237 for SNHA members.  Price includes permit, 3 nights lodging in Pear Lake Ski Hut, guiding to Pear Lake and the Table Lands and/or Skier's Alta, instruction and tips for success, natural history and engaging activities, and pre-trip planning assistance.
To Book: Visit Sequoia Field Institute EdVentures at http://www.sequoiahistory.org or call (559) 565-4251

*All participants provide their own snow shovel, probe pole, and avalanche beacon.  These are required equipment for this trip.  A refresher on how to use will be offered.