Attending Balanced Rocks "Summer Solstice" 6/22-25, 2017 was an amazing experience. Jana and JP were our guides and they are such talented individuals. They shared their knowledge of backpacking and roughing it in the great outdoors, preparing healthy gourmet food (beyond what I expected for a camping trip), practicing mindfulness. We had daily yoga morning and evening, free time to hike, climb, jump in the lake, journal, spend time together as a group. I will treasure the memories I made on this trip forever. Thank you for being such a one of a kind organization read more

Balanced Rock Foundation - 6/25/17 saying goodbye to our home as we backpack out towards civilization. Love you Yosemite! - Hiking Near Me

Balanced Rock was everything I was searching for that I didn't know I needed. They created a wonderful and personalized backpacking trip complete with gourmet meals, yoga, meditation, journaling and just the right amount of physical and mental challenge. So grateful to the team and my guide. read more

Balanced Rock Foundation - Hiking Near Me

My first trip to Yosemite will be such a cherished memory thanks to Balanced Rock! My bf and I are so happy we went with a guide through the Park. She shared her vast knowledge about the park's history, knew all the best popular spots to take us, (plus showed us a few special gems only the locals know ), and even picked us up lunch on the way to enjoy at the foot of El Capitan. The best part...all our pics and videos look like we're the only people there!! (Definitely gonna hang a few at home!) We can't wait to come back again and experience a longer hike now that we know who to trust. Highly recommend them! read more

Balanced Rock Foundation - Hiking Near Me

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Just got back from the Nature & Nurture 4-day back country backpacking trip....ah-mazing! Let me set up me and my background coming into this trip: 30/f, single traveler, East Coast (yes its totally doable!), been to the Yosemite Valley once and fell in love, no backpacking experience but a lover of the outdoors and yoga, an occasional jogger. This trip was 3 guides and i believe 12 people (one other single traveler) but it was like a family right away. Before the trip, I would send random questions via email to Balanced Rock and they always got back to me quickly and with wonderful personality and personal experiences. They prepare you with your gear list, then you meet at the trail head to cover what you've packed (i ALWAYS over pack lol) and brief you on whats to come. We lucked out with beautiful weather. but everything else was planned to perfection by the BR team. Planned meals and snacks (I was never hungry even across miles of awesome hiking) which were almost too good to be true. And they keep you safe and want to know if you are ever having a difficult time with anything so it can be figured out. Yoga in the morning and the evening was not only beautiful, but i realized after our long hiking days, i was never ever sore...every backpacker should add yoga. Ultimately i learned how physically and mentally tough I am, and how welcoming new people can be, and that I can totally hack it with backpacking/camping :) I will be looking at BR 2016 schedule to do this again. You get to see a Yosemite that is a bit more hidden to the mainstream and with people who are all in it for the same reasons you are. Thank you to Dr. Breezy, Anna and JP for being awesomesauce guides, and to Balanced Rock for offering the most one of a kind experience offered up to anyone. read more

Balanced Rock Foundation - Yosemite - Cathedral Pass - Nature & Nurture backpacking trip - East Coast Gals! - Hiking Near Me

I recently returned from a 4-day backpacking and yoga trip with Balanced Rock and cannot recommend this organization enough. Our leaders were extremely knowledgeable about plants, wildlife, forest management, backpacking tips and many other things, and were fun to be around. They encouraged us when we weren't sure of ourselves and were all around excellent guides who were inspiring to be around. Thank you for a wonderfully restorative time in the Sierras! read more

I participated in the Women of Color hike to Yosemite in 2013 and it was both phenomenal and life-affirming. It is the only program of its kind, I believe. And even if it's not, I felt like I was doing something important and life changing just by taking part. The leaders, Chelsea Griffe and Elizabeth Sy, were amazing and knowledgeable. Chelsea is the real deal; she's been profiled by Sports Illustrated and was the first African-American woman to climb El Capitan. Elizabeth is great too, she was the head chef and frankly, the care that she took with addressing everyone's dietary needs (paleo, pescatarian, vegetarian, vegan) was nothing short of amazing. Her Paleo granola is out of this world! At the time that I went, I'd just moved out west from New York City, so this was a great welcome to the beauty of the West and the natural world. Our group consisted of women of all ages, sizes, and aptitudes. You didn't have to be experienced (as I wasn't), you just needed to want to go. And Balanced Rock provided a generous scholarship so that I could go--otherwise, being a single parent, I probably wouldn't have been able to take part. So kudos to Balanced Rock! Anyway, we trekked over several days with very heavy backpacks. The sense of comraderie that I gained with these ladies was so special. The nights sharing by the fireside were amazing. And sleeping under the stars brought everything into perspective. The leaders had us write ourselves a letter that we was mailed to us one year later. It's so great to read what I thought at the time, and how clear my thinking was after several days in the wild. In short, I can't recommend this trip enough. It will change your life. Just do it! read more

My heart is full with love, grace, and warmth. I just graduated from the 200-HR Registered Yoga Teacher training and couldn't be happier. The program offered outdoor excursions coupled with teachings on anatomy, posture, philosophy while incorporating the elements. A wonderful experience where I earned my RYT, met wonderful humans, deepened my practiced, and explored Yosemite. Thank you Balanced Rock! read more

I'm going to start out by being honest and saying that I now work for Balanced Rock...but I went on a Balanced Rock 5-day backpacking trip before I worked for the organization and I LOVED it. I was impressed with the quality of the program and how it allowed me to connect with myself on a deeper level because of activities like the "solo" time. My instructors were Lindsey Wilson and Arin Trook. I loved Lindsey's Anusara yoga and Arin was a true Wilderness master. He cooked all meals and they were incredibly good as well as provided all of the backpacking and leave-no-trace information. The hiking was very easy for me, but I live in the Yosemite area so that might be expected. I also love the free Balanced Rock yoga classes during the week. Plus, I know I am biased here, but Yosemite is so gorgeous, it's hard to have a bad time. read more

Balanced Rock Foundation - Hiking Near Me

Last month I had the opportunity to experience the Nature and Nurture backpacking trip in Yosemite! Our guides Jana and Jon Paul...and the help of Rachel...made for one of the most unforgettable retreats! From daily yoga and creek swims, amazing food including S'mores, and afternoon hikes to breathtaking vistas...I can't stop journaling about my memories and inspiration from this trip! I would very much recommend this retreat to anyone who simply wants a humble experience in the great outdoors with beautiful people! read more

I can write a book about how life-enriching Balanced Rock is. I first fell in love with this organization in 2010, after meeting the co-founders. I have never met healthier, more radiant, generous, genuine, self-actualized, or in-tune human beings! They are both healers, yogis, and climbers who are deeply connected to nature. Their presence alone is inspiring, and their classes, retreats, and trainings are transformational. I have taken several classes from their community yoga program and have attended most of their all-day yoga workshops, and have loved them all. I have also been on three of their camping/backpacking retreats in/around Yosemite National Park, which are the absolute best. Balanced Rock has led me to the most breathtaking lands with the most wonderful groups of people. They always serve delicious meals, usually around a fire, and guide yoga practices over glacially-polished granite and under wide-open blue skies. These retreats are the best kind of decadence -- the kind that nourishes one's entire being. I am very grateful for all of my BR experiences. I've learned a lot about camping, backpacking, and yoga, but more importantly, I've learned how to really take care of myself. Spending time in nature, hiking and/or doing yoga with friends (new or old), with good food, is the one of the best recipes for a happy, balanced, and healthy life. Looking forward to my next retreat! read more

What a wonderful immersion it was into Yoga 101 with Heather and Paula. The day started with a great practice with El Capitan generating a force of light and power on us against the deepest blue Spring sky. Followed by lunch, a history of Yoga, pranayama, reflections & journaling. It was an honor to be with Heather, Paula and others seeking to enrich their Yoga journeys. read more

I have participated in the yoga classes sponsored by the Balanced Rock Foundation. They were my first introduction to yoga and the instructors were terrific. I know that they have branched out into hiking and outdoors trips, but I haven't been able to participate in one of those yet, although it sounds great if I ever have a spare 2 weeks. They offer a lot of low-cost options, the yoga classes were no-cost at the time I was taking them, which is a great idea for such a touristy, normally expensive venue like Yosemite. My favorite people/instructors at the Foundation that I can definitely recommend as wonderful and enthusiastic are: Anna Landauer Chelsea Griffie Jen Bowen-Meno Heather Sullivan Schuyler Greenleaf (Not that others aren't; I just don't know.) My only slight complaint is that I think there is too much emphasis on pantheistic philosophies ("om"). I am not pantheistic, and was slightly uncomfortable at moments because I couldn't fully participate in that specific type of chanting or meditation, but the instruction itself is top-notch. They just need to be willing to accommodate all spiritualities and religions. read more

I participated in the Summer Solstice 2015 Balanced Rock, Backpacking and Yoga trip to Ten Lakes in Yosemite National Park. I loved the multi generational and inspirational experience. Guides, Paula, Jean- Paul and Anna, helped build a cohesive team we had an amazing experience. The pristine vistas and lakes, the yoga, hiking and mediation experiences and excellence in back country community building created an experience of a life time for my daughter and I. I highly recommend, this trip as a Soul satisfying trip that creates space for celebration of the beauty in nature, within ourselves and our connections with one another. Thank you Balanced Rock. Julia Shafer read more

Heather Sullivan is the best guide in Yosemite Valley. I am a mom and a nurse with a great passion for the outdoors who traveled with my 13 year old son and nephew to make their Yosemite their dream vacation come true! I was overwhelmed by the prospect of figuring out Yosemite by myself- Heather has 23 years of experience in Yosemite and has been with Balanced Rock since its inception. She knew EVERYTHING! She took us on the best hiking trails that were fun but not overwhelming and offered amazing views, the perfect picnic spot in the field across from El Captain- watching the climbers settle into their rock face-sided tents, a magical walk through the Sequoias, the best views of Yosemite valley and Yosemite falls- all to ourselves! Heather is experienced, kind, funny and has solid Yosemite "street smarts". You couldn't ask for a better guide-not only for hiking and navigating the park-but for Yosemite history, mushroom foraging, picnics, wild flower and tree guide, identifying safe springs to drink from. You will never find a better guide & safer guide for your family & friends. She was a true gift that gave me and the boys life long memories. I'd give her 20 stars if it was possible! THANK YOU HEATHER. Balanced Rock is so lucky to have you! read more

My Balanced Rock trip was more than I asked for!! Yosemite is incredible and I am so happy that my fist trip there was through Balanced Rock and guided by the Balanced Rock Team. I had also always been intimidated by backpacking and Balanced Rock made it fun and accessible. I also learned a lot from my guides throughout the trip. Which brings me to the guides! They were amazing, kind, and knowledgeable. From Yoga to Meals they were incredible and compassionate to our group and our experience. If you have the opportunity to attend one of these trips... take it! It is a weekend I will always cherish and the summer solstice will now forever have a special space in my heart. read more

I just completed the 300 hour 2017-2018 WildYoga Yoga Teacher Training. Instructors are caring, diverse, and well-rounded individuals with wisdom, skill, and grace. The curriculum is designed for self reflection with a focus on teaching nature-inspired yoga, carefully themed/ designed around the 5 elements of Ayurveda. Food is delicious (when provided with programming), location is gorgeous (Yosemite National Park and surrounding areas), and individual care is paramount. I return home from each training inspired with tools to take better care of myself, be a better teacher, and bring my own diverse skills and passions to the world, via yoga, and all else. Deep gratitude! Highly recommended. read more

The setting was beautiful, inspiring, and peaceful, the food was amazing, and the people were off the charts wonderful to spend time with! I felt nurtured and supported while I had space for my own journey. I have done a few courses with Balanced Rock and I look forward to partaking in more! read more

Those who lead the guided backpacking tours are beyond equipped for the position; they excel in guiding others and giving those taking the trip enough space to explore the countryside on their own. The food is heartfelt and deliciously prepared. The yoga in the morning and evening is a perfect complement to the hard days' work of climbing and backpacking. I highly recommend the backpacking trips, although I have intentions of going on the trip to the meadows of Yosemite (less backcountry backpacking). If you sign up for a backpacking trip, it is wise to spend 4-6 months prior doing a blend of cardiovascular/strength training. I made the investment in my workouts and found the backpacking trip to be challenging but very manageable. read more

I went on a writing/ yoga retreat through Balanced Rock at a wonderful retreat center outside Yosemite. Heather lead the yoga/ writing exercises/ meditations and Ruth cooked and lead a zumba class. It was a perfect retreat - tailored to the 5 of us who attended. The writing exercises were thought-provoking and rich stimulus for internal reflection, and the time was the perfect balance of mind/ body/ spirit. The vibe was excellent; accepting and growthful. I'd definitely recommend Balanced Rock and look forward to other opportunities to check out Yosemite through their wise leadership. read more

I had the honor and pleasure of participating in the Wild Awareness yoga backpacking journey last weekend. This adventure included off trail travel to a beautiful backcountry setting at Nelson Lake. Our guide, Paula Wild, set the tone for an immersive weekend - complete with fresh, healthy meals, two restorative yoga sessions a day, and lots of room for personal growth against a spectacular Yosemite backdrop! A personal highlight for me was a solo journey up to the top of a pass, where I got 360 views from below to the lake we set up camp to the towering granite peaks that surrounded us. Whether it's your first time hitting the trail or a seasoned backpacker - This course has something to offer everyone! read more

I participated in a Balanced Rock retreat in 2014, and I have only positive things to say about my experience! The facilitated meditation, yoga, reflection and writing was extremely meaningful and ushered me into a new season rejuvenated and with a refreshed mindset. The food was healthy and incredibly delicious (not overly healthy, just the right balance with tons of options). I was particularly impressed with the staff/instructors, who have wisdom and experience to offer and yet remain humble and playful. And who can complain about all of this IN YOSEMITE! What a gorgeous backdrop for a transformational experience! read more

I went on a yoga and backpacking trip in 2009 with Arin Trook and Lindsay Wilson. It was a great experience. Being able to move through the gorgeous natural setting of Yosemite while backpacking and practicing yoga was idyllic. Arin is a great guide and amazing camping chef - we ate so well! He also tailored the hiking to the level of the group, which was great. Lindsay similarly was open to feedback so her teaching was appropriate to the level of the group. I was also impressed that there are various ways to get price adjustments if needed, which is awesome. I highly recommend trips with Balanced Rock. read more

To do yoga amidst the grandeur of Yosemite National Park next to the Tuolumne River with incredibly skilled teachers is a gift. I did a camping and hiking and yoga program in the high country of Yosemite two summers ago. The food, the hiking, the group..all were superlative. read more

I love all aspects of the Balanced Rock programs! From the personalized care all the instructors provide to the AMAZING scrumptious food to the conscious organizational mantra of encouraging work/life balance....whatever that means to each of us. Every time I've been a participant, it's turned out to be a profound, life-changing experience in big and small ways. Thank you Balanced Rock! read more