Discover Yosemite and Elevate Your Environmental Law Practice

Imagine four days immersed in Yosemite’s breathtaking landscapes while deepening your expertise alongside the nation’s leading environmental, land use, and natural resources law professionals. The 34th Annual Environmental Law Conference at Yosemite, presented by the California Lawyers Association, takes place October 16–19, 2025, at the picturesque Tenaya Lodge just outside Yosemite National Park.

Why You Should Attend

This conference stands as California’s largest and most esteemed gathering of environmental law, land use, and natural resources legal experts. Among attendees are distinguished public officials, top attorneys, advocates, policymakers, and thought leaders—fostering unmatched opportunities for connection, collaboration, and inspiration.

Exceptional Continuing Legal Education (CLE)

Attendees can earn up to 11.25 MCLE credit hours, including specialized sessions on implicit bias and technology in the legal practice.

Highlights include:

• Recent Environmental Law Developments: A standout panel examining key recent decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court, federal appellate courts, and the California Supreme Court, plus an analysis of ongoing impactful cases. 
• Tribal-Focused Panel Sessions: The conference features several panel sessions that address Tribal perspectives on water, energy, and land use.
• Plenary Session: A compelling keynote presentation by Gina McCarthy, First White House National Climate Advisor and former U.S. EPA Administrator, whose leadership has propelled U.S. climate strategy toward unprecedented innovation. This session will also include a conversation with Liane Randolph, Chair of the California Air Resources Board.

Engaging Networking & Collegial Atmosphere

The conference opens with a welcome reception and S’mores Afterparty by the fire pits—perfect for mingling under starlit skies.  As one longtime attendee, Mary Akens, former Chair of the Environmental Law Section, reflects:

“The conference… not only exceeds expectations, it will remind one why they enjoy the field of environmental law… I always leave the conference feeling inspired and reinvigorated.”

Immerse Yourself in Yosemite’s Majesty

Afternoon programming blends legal enrichment with nature exploration:

• Friday Hikes & Conversations: In addition to hiking and other outdoor adventures, participants may sign up for a guided dog walk or a  conversation between L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath and former Environmental Law Section chair Gideon Kracov on climate-conscious rebuilding in post-fire communities.
• Saturday Outdoor Presentations: Attendees can choose from enriching sessions—including giant sequoia restoration post fire, a geological history hike, watershed hydrology, Tribal plant-gathering access, and the origins of Yosemite’s place names—each thoughtfully led by experts from academia, government, and Tribal communities.
• On Saturday evening, a fireside chat with Ellen M. Peter, recipient of the Environmental Law Section’s 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award, offers an inspiring reflection on a distinguished career in environmental law.

Convenience & Accommodations

Held at the serene Tenaya Lodge (1122 Highway 41, Fish Camp, CA 93623), lodging is comfortable and convenient—with alternative hotels in the area listed for attendees. No Yosemite park entrance reservation is necessary for event participants.

The 34th Annual Environmental Law Conference at Yosemite blends world-class legal programming, abundant networking, time in nature, and collegial spirit—set against the iconic beauty of Yosemite. Whether you’re seeking CLE credits, connection with other environmental attorneys, or restorative time in the outdoors, this conference offers a rare, enriching opportunity.

Reserve your spot, pack your hiking boots—and get ready to be inspired.