Winter Snowshoe/Ski Adventure in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Step into the quiet magic of winter in the legendary Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Beneath a fresh blanket of snow, these ancient trees rise even more powerfully — their cinnamon bark glowing against a white landscape, their massive branches holding silence like something sacred.
Traveling by snowshoe allows us to move slowly and intentionally through the grove, far from the busier seasons. The winter air is crisp and still. Footprints soften quickly. Sound carries differently here — the hush of falling snow, the distant crack of ice, the steady rhythm of your breath.
As we wander among some of the largest living trees on Earth, we’ll explore the ecology of the Sierra Nevada in winter, learn how these giants endure heavy snow and fire, and witness how the forest transforms in the cold season. Wildlife sign often tells quiet stories across the snow — coyote tracks, chickadees flitting between branches, and the possibility of rare winter sightings.
A quiet, private snowshoe experience beneath Yosemite’s towering giant sequoias.
What Makes Winter Special
Snow-draped giant sequoias towering overhead
Quiet trails with minimal crowds
Unique wildlife tracks in fresh snow
A deeper sense of presence and perspective
Winter in the Grove isn’t just beautiful — it’s immersive.
Who This Is For
Adventurers seeking a quieter Yosemite experience
Couples or groups wanting a memorable winter outing
Photographers drawn to snow-laden giants
Anyone who wants to experience the Grove beyond peak-season crowds
Trip Details
Meet-Up Time: 8:00 AM
Meet-Up Location: Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza, Yosemite National Park
Estimated Return: 2:00 PM-4:00 PM (flexible based on group pace and conditions)
Distance: Approximately 5–8 miles depending on conditions and group preference
Elevation Gain: 800–1,200 feet starting at 5,600 ft. at the trailhead
Difficulty: Moderate (snow travel requires steady footing and stamina)
Recommended Fitness Level: Comfortable hiking 5–8 miles with steady uphill travel
Group Type: Private guided experience (up to 7 guests)
Season: Winter (conditions dependent)
Gear Provided: Snowshoes, day pack, and trekking poles available upon request. BYOS- bring your own skis (touring with skins recommended)
What’s Included
Professional, knowledgeable Yosemite guide
Customized route planning based on conditions and group goals
Snowshoes (as needed)
Trekking poles (upon request)
Day pack (upon request)
Trail lunch and snacks
Natural history interpretation and local insight
Pre-trip planning support and gear consultation
What’s Not Included
Skis (Touring skis with skins recommended)
Yosemite National Park entrance fee
Transportation to/from trailhead
Guide gratuity
Travel insurance
Rates
1 person: $650
2 people: $350 per person
3 people: $310 per person
4-5 people: $260 per person
6-8 people: $225 per person
*Prices do not include guide gratuity
Families with children are welcome — we’re happy to recommend age-appropriate routes and pacing.
All winter day hikes are fully private and reserved exclusively for your party.
Cancellation Policy
Because private day hikes are reserved exclusively for your group:
Cancellations made 7 days or more prior to your trip receive a full refund.
Cancellations made 3–6 days prior receive a 50% refund.
Cancellations made within 72 hours of your trip are non-refundable.
If Axis Wild Expeditions cancels due to unsafe weather or conditions, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in the event of illness, injury, or unexpected travel disruptions.
Winter weather and mountain conditions can be unpredictable. Travel insurance can provide coverage for trip cancellations, delays, or medical expenses.
Ready to Experience Winter in the Grove?
Snow transforms the Mariposa Grove into something rare and quiet. If you’re ready to move at a different pace beneath snow-laden giants, we’d love to guide your day.