Aramark Destinations-Operated Property Recognized for Leadership in Responsible Recreation, Team Training, and Sustainability in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Hospitality, a subsidiary of Aramark Destinations, announced today it has been awarded the Leave No Trace Gold Standard Hospitality designation, the highest level of recognition from the organization. The designation underscores Yosemite Hospitality’s leadership in protecting Yosemite National Park’s natural landscapes while elevating guest education and responsible recreation across its lodging, dining, and recreational experiences.

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Backpacking views at Yosemite National Park

“Environmental responsibility is fundamental to how we operate in the nation’s most treasured places,” said Sasha Day, President & CEO of Aramark Destinations. “Yosemite Hospitality’s Gold Standard designation reflects the deep commitment of our teams to empower guests, support our park partners, and integrate sustainable principles into foundational operations in one of the most iconic national parks in the world.”

The Gold Standard designation honors organizations that serve as exemplary models of Leave No Trace implementation, demonstrating leadership in stewardship while helping visitors recreate responsibly for generations to come.

Key initiatives contributing to the Gold Standard Hospitality designation include:

• Six team members are certified as Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructors.
• Integration of Leave No Trace principles into all interpretive programs, with Yosemite Mountain Guides operating under established protocols to model responsible recreation.
• Pre-arrival guest education through a dedicated landing page and communications, complemented by on-site signage reinforcing best practices across lodging, dining, retail, and recreation spaces.
• Ongoing collaboration with Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Conservancy, and the Yosemite Climbing Association, including support for the annual Yosemite Facelift event.
• Robust sustainability practices across all facilities, including composting and recycling, reductions in single-use items, and a dedicated internal Green Team guiding sustainability initiatives.

“Earning the Leave No Trace Gold Standard is both a tremendous honor and a reflection of the values we live every day in Yosemite,” said Nick Sponaugle, Vice President of Operations for Aramark Destinations and a certified Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor. “Leave No Trace is not just a framework for us; it is a commitment. From how we train our staff to how we educate guests before they arrive, we are focused on protecting Yosemite’s natural and cultural resources while empowering our teams to lead by example. I am incredibly proud of the work being done to ensure visitors can experience this extraordinary place responsibly, today and for generations to come.”

With nearly four million visitors to Yosemite National Park each year, consistent education and stewardship practices are essential to preserving fragile ecosystems. Through ongoing collaboration with park partners and a steadfast commitment to Leave No Trace principles, Yosemite Hospitality and Aramark Destinations will continue to advance responsible recreation in one of America’s most cherished landscapes.

About Aramark Destinations
Aramark Destinations delivers authentic and memorable experiences at iconic locations across the United States. From national and state parks to protected lands, conference centers, and specialty hotels, Aramark Destinations provides industry-leading hospitality, lodging, and recreational amenities that inspire, restore, and connect guests with the outdoors. Visit Aramark Destinations’ website to learn more or connect on LinkedIn.

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