A week in the Sierra Nevadas with the Wild Wonder Foundation

In July of 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a nature journaling trip hosted by the Wild Wonder Foundation in the breathtaking Sierra Nevadas. The week was filled with so much learning, adventure, and creativity that it’s still hard to put into words.

Before venturing into the mountains, I spent the first two days in San Francisco, where I had the chance to try my hand at urban sketching. The city’s iconic scenery provided endless inspiration, and I spent my time capturing the vibrant Painted Lady houses, the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and some of the fascinating wildlife along the wharf. Urban sketching was a new experience for me, and I loved the challenge of blending the dynamic cityscape with my nature journal.

After soaking in the sights of San Francisco, I made my way north to the Sierra Nevadas, where the true adventure began. The mountains were absolutely stunning, and the landscape provided the perfect backdrop for our nature journaling sessions. The trip was filled with hands-on workshops led by some of the best instructors in the field, including Kate Rutter, Roseann Hanson, Rob Wade, and John (Jack) Muir Laws. Each workshop was unique, offering a deep dive into different aspects of nature journaling, from sketching techniques to the finer details of observation.

What stood out the most during this week was not just the stunning scenery, but the sense of community and connection that developed among all the participants. We spent our days exploring the Sierra Nevadas, observing the natural world, and documenting it in our journals. Whether we were sketching towering trees, documenting delicate wildflowers, or listening to the rustle of the leaves, every moment felt like a gift.

The workshops were a perfect blend of practical guidance and creative freedom, allowing each of us to deepen our understanding of nature journaling while also exploring our individual artistic styles. The feedback and encouragement from the instructors were invaluable, and I left feeling more confident in my skills and more inspired than ever to continue journaling.

This week in the Sierra Nevadas was truly an unforgettable experience. It not only deepened my connection to nature but also expanded my skills as a nature journaler. I am so grateful to the Wild Wonder Foundation for organizing such an amazing trip and to the talented instructors who shared their wisdom and expertise with us.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, improve your journaling skills, and be inspired by some of the most incredible landscapes in the world, I highly recommend taking part in one of the trips. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after the journey ends.