Brittany “Bee” Hopper
Naturalist Guide
Why did you come to Yosemite?
BH: I came to Yosemite to pursue an opportunity to work outdoors with others who are motivated to encourage people from all parts of life to try new things as well explore all the different parts of Yosemite National Park has to offer!
What are your hobbies?
BH: Well, this is a tough question since I love to constantly try new things, but a few of my most favorite hobbies would include jiu-jitsu, climbing, backpacking, running, and making others laugh!
What is your favorite hike/trail in Yosemite?
BH: My favorite hike in Yosemite would have to be Mirror Lake, but I am looking forward to checking off my list of new hikes to try in Yosemite!
Tell us your craziest hiking story.
BH: During my time as an undergrad student, I joined an Outdoor Adventure Program, to which would lead me to sign up for my first ever backpacking trip! Going into the start of the second day on the trip my friend, Haley, and I really had to go use the bathroom, which is not always the easiest to find while in the woods.
Haley went off to find a spot, I decided to stay on the trail so she would be able to spot me while making her way back so she would not get lost. As I was waiting for her, I was in awe of the quietness of the morning and the way the wind would rustle the fall leaves, but then I suddenly noticed a large black object moving through the woods in front of me, which I quickly realized was a black bear!
I start waving my hands at Haley and point towards the bear like crazy. I also attempted to yell her name quietly, since at the time I thought loud noises would attract the bear. Haley has no idea what I am trying to say to her and finally starts to hike back towards me. Thankfully, as she is making her way back, I also notice that the bear starts to move in the opposite direction of where we are. I finally explain to her why I was waving, and she could barely believe it!
All of this was a crazy way to start off the second day into my first ever backpacking trip, but it is also the thrill of this first trip that has stuck to me today and has lead me to pursue a life filled with adventures!
What's your favorite hiking meal or trail snack?
BH: My favorite go-to hiking meal is hands down and will forever be pita pizzas! All you need is a slice of pita bread, pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and pizza sauce. They are super easy to make for a lunch break or a quick snack if you are feeling risky.
And what is your dream vacation?
BH: I love this question! My Dream vacation would be between taking a backpacking trip through Altai Tavan Bogd National Park in Mongolia, or traveling through South Africa!