We're a family-owned outdoor gear shop in Mariposa, CA — the historic gateway to Yosemite. Whether you're day hiking the Valley, backpacking the high country, scaling granite faces, or casting a line in alpine waters, The Approach is where adventure begins.
When it's time to bring Yosemite home, visit our gift shop featuring Mostly Sweet Jewelry and hand-painted Yosemite Batiks — authentic local art inspired by the wild beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
Our Mission: The Switchback Gear Exchange helps adventurers streamline and upgrade their gear while making outdoor exploration accessible and affordable for our community.
The Use Trail links you directly to The Approach's supplier warehouses - your shortcut to gear we don't stock in-store. Get full access to our brand partners' catalogs with personalized selection guidance.
How It Works
Join the List - Subscribe to The Use Trail email list
Get Notified - Receive advance notice when we're preparing brand orders
Place Your Order - Add your items to our order
Pick Up Your Order - Stop by The Approach to get your new gear
Guide Services
Sometimes, you want more specifics than “follow the creek for a while, then cross the slabs in the direction of the notch.” You want someone to take you there. Overwhelmed by the gear selection process? We will research options, narrow the choices, and help you identify the product for your needs.
No spam, no daily deals bombardment - just the inside line on exclusive ordering opportunities. Whether you're gearing up for your next adventure or planning ahead for the season, you'll be the first to know. Your email stays private, and you can unsubscribe anytime.