Discover New Heights
“Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity…” –John Muir
Invasive plant removal in Yosemite
Trail maintenance at Mt. Diablo
On a hike in Yosemite
Mt. Diablo MOVE staff
Yosemite
Setting up a tent at Mt. Diablo
Hearing about Yosemite from John Muir (impersonator)
Learning about the geology in Yosemite National Park
Flanking the Central Valley are the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Coastal Mountain Range. The Sierra Nevada is home to Yosemite National Park and uncountable small mountain lakes, like Bear River Reservoir in El Dorado National Forest. The Coastal Mountain Range is home to majestic coastal redwoods. The organizations that oversee the utilization of these mountain ranges depend on the volunteerism of caring citizens to maintain habitats for wildlife and to maintain the trail systems so that adventurers can safely explore the environment without causing undue damage to the beautiful landscape. The Mountain experience of MOVE is a way to commit to the future of our mighty mountains.
-
Option 1: Yosemite National Park, Sierra Nevada Mountains
Spend the night among the majestic sights in Yosemite. Spend your first day wandering among the towering trees, splashing in the Merced River, and roasting marshmallows by the campfire before snuggling into your tent cabin for the night. On day two you will learn about the environment unique to the Yosemite National Park, while assisting the Yosemite Institute in restoring the Valley to its natural state. You might be removing non-native plants to allow the mighty trees to grow or spending time near the water to help keep it fresh and clear. However you spend your time in Yosemite, you will return to campus with new friends and fond memories!
-
Option 2: Redwood Glen, Coastal Mountains
Grab your sleeping bag (or a blanket or two) and a pillow, and spend the night in the Coastal Mountains south of San Francisco near the town of Pescadero. You will spend the first day hiking the trails of the Pescadero Creek and San Mateo Memorial Parks. With over 8000+ acres to explore you will have ample space to wander about the coastal redwood trees. After an enjoyable hike, you and your group can cool off in the sparkling pool. After you snack on a few s'mores by the campfire and enjoy the star filled night sky, get some rest and prepare for a day of service with the California State Parks, spending the day on the shores of the Pacific Ocean doing important service work. Don't miss this chance to explore the beauty of the coastal mountains!
-
Option 3: Bear River Reservoir, Sierra Nevada Mountains
This is a great opportunity to do some rustic camping. Upon arrival you will learn to pitch a tent, set up camp, and then hike down to Bear River Reservoir to enjoy the cool water. Spend your evening helping to cook dinner and then roast marshmallows around the campfire; don't forget to take a moment to enjoy the splendor of the star filled sky. The next morning you will pair up with volunteer staff from the El Dorado National Forest Interpretive Association to explore the tree filled forests while you help to maintain and repair established trails and protect the natural habitat of the National Forest. Make Bear River Reservoir your mountain home for a night!
-
Option 4: Mt. Gilead, Coastal Redwood Forests
Mt. Gilead is a peaceful camp location in the heart of California's Coastal Redwoods in Sonoma County. The first day you will wander the hiking trails of the 238 acre camp, and participate in some team challenges. Don't miss the opportunity to swing across the campsite on an exhilarating 400 foot zip line. Spend the evening under the stars roasting marshmallows then retire to your cabin for a good night's rest. Day two will be a great day of service as you work with the Sonoma County Regional Parks Department to enhance the accessibility of local parks and trails for future explorers. This adventure among the redwoods is one to remember!
