The classic Yosemite winter introduction
The Moderate Discovery Snowshoe Hike is the entry-level guided winter outing at Badger Pass. 2-3 hours total — about an hour of structured instruction and snowshoe basics, followed by a guided walk through the winter forest around the Nordic Center area.
What's included
- Snowshoes and poles — sized at the start of the hike
- Brief instruction — how to walk in snowshoes, how to use poles, what to do on hills
- Guided walk — typically along Old Glacier Point Road or to Summit Meadow
- Natural history narration from the guide
What to expect on the route
The exact route varies with conditions and the guide's call, but typically the hike covers 2-3 miles round-trip through pine and red fir forest with periodic openings to long views of the Yosemite high country. Stops along the way to look at tracks, identify trees, talk about how the forest survives winter.
This is paced for families and first-time snowshoers — slow, conversational, with breaks. If you're a fit hiker who wants a more athletic day, book the Dewey Point hike instead.
What to wear and bring
- Warm layers — base layer, mid-layer, weatherproof outer shell
- Waterproof boots — hiking boots or snow boots work; the snowshoes strap over them
- Hat and gloves — non-negotiable; temperatures are usually 20-35°F during the hike window
- Snacks and water — the guide provides nothing edible; bring what you need
- Sunglasses — snow glare is intense at 7,200ft, even on cloudy days
- Camera or phone — winter Yosemite is exceptionally photogenic
