Justin Pitschmann 2023
Justin grew up in Wichita, Kansas, where his parents fostered his love for nature and wildlife rehabilitation. Family trips to Colorado’s Rocky Mountains sparked his fascination with the outdoors, shaping his future in ecology.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in biology with an emphasis on ecology from Sterling College in Kansas, publishing a thesis on black-tailed prairie dog behavior. He later pursued a master’s in marine science at Halmos College of Natural Sciences and Oceanography in Florida. During college, summer jobs at a camp near Yosemite introduced him to California’s Sierra Nevada range, where he spent every free moment hiking and camping. After graduation, he became a backcountry and photography guide in Yosemite, combining his passion for ecology with visual storytelling.
Justin has traveled to five countries, over 30 U.S. states and 16 national parks. Now based in Oakhurst, California, just 15 miles from Yosemite, he spends his free time backpacking, fly fishing and converting a van into a tiny home for future adventures.
What Our Guests Say
Justin was extremely knowledgeable and his enthusiasm was contagious! I never knew I would be so interested in geology and granite, haha. It's easy to see that Justin’s love for Yosemite runs deep, and he was committed to showing us all of the beauty it has to offer.
Justin is a superb guide: knowledgeable, friendly, great personality. He seems to be a natural leader and was able to adjust the schedule due to weather easily and calmly. I knew we were in excellent hands with Justin!
Justin is so knowledgeable about Yosemite and very passionate. He even took us to some of his favorite sites—places that we'd never know to go to on our own!
