Why SYMG

SYMG is a leader in the active travel and mountain guiding world, providing carefully planned and executed trips in the most spectacular wilderness areas of California. SYMG was started in 1991 by three friends offering hiking trips into California's mountains in hopes of more closely meshing lifestyle with work. Now, over 20 years later, we've shown thousands of people the beauty of Yosemite and the High Sierra and have been named one of the "Best Outfitters on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure Magazine.

Our Philosophy

Southern Yosemite Mountain Guides is concerned with the beauty of the mountains, the strength of interpersonal relationships, the wilderness experience, and the challenges these provide. SYMG intends to make people more aware of the environment, while providing an opportunity to meet others with similar interests. The people who make up each trip are as important as the areas and the places we explore. The primary concern for all trips is that they are run safely and provide a positive outdoor experience.

Our Style

Carefully chosen itineraries, seamless planning, friendly & knowledgeable guides, and incredible food all contribute to the quality of the SYMG experience. From big adventures to relaxing basecamp outings, our aim is to facilitate what just may be your "trip of a lifetime".

Our Guides

Our professional mountain guides are there to facilitate a seamless and memorable trip for you. All guides are trained in wilderness medicine at the professional level and are experienced backcountry folks. Each guide has his/her own specialties, often associated with advanced coursework or certifications. Our guides are well versed in the natural and cultural history of the area, cook excellent food, and are fun, personable people to spend time with. Visit our Guides' Page to learn more.

Press and Accolades

We feel fortunate that our programs have been praised in dozens of national magazines, newspapers, and trade journals throughout the years including Outside, Men's Journal, Sunset, Via, Elle and Backpacker just to name a few. We've even been named "Best Outfitter on Earth" and "Best Adventure Travel Company" by National Geographic Adventure magazine. Visit our Press Page to learn more.

"Of the dozens of outdoor recreation companies that offer guided hiking and backpacking trips throughout the Yosemite region, surely the best of the bunch is Southern Yosemite Mountain Guides"

Frommer's

Southern Yosemite Mountain Guides, Inc operates under special use permits in Sierra National Forest, Inyo National Forest, Stanislaus National Forest, Yosemite National Park, and Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Parks and is a bonded and licensed fly fishing guide service with the CA Department of Fish and Game. All SYMG rock courses are instructed by certified PCGI instructors and/or AMGA trained guides. SYMG is also a proud member of Trout Unlimited, the Worldwide Outfitters and Guides Association, The Yosemite Conservancy, and the Sierra Club.

NOTICE: In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.