Your adventure begins in the heart of Yosemite Valley at North Pines Backpackers Camp, where we set the foundation for a successful and rewarding backcountry experience. Our team arrives earlier in the day to prepare camp and ensure everything is ready for your arrival, including securing wilderness permits from the ranger station and organizing group gear.

Guests arrive in the afternoon and are welcomed with introductions and a comprehensive orientation led by your expert guides. This is where the trip truly begins—reviewing the route, discussing expectations, and walking through essential backpacking skills. You’ll participate in a hands-on pack fitting and gear demo, learning how to properly distribute weight and efficiently organize your backpack for the days ahead.

As you settle into camp, we strongly encourage consistent hydration to help your body adjust in preparation for higher elevations in the coming days. The evening wraps up with a relaxed group dinner in camp, giving everyone a chance to connect, ask questions, and get excited for the journey ahead. Surrounded by Yosemite’s iconic granite walls and towering pines, it’s the perfect introduction to your guided backpacking adventure.

Day two marks the true start of your Yosemite backcountry journey as we head into the High Sierra. The morning begins early with breakfast and final preparations before boarding the hiker shuttle from Curry Village. Enjoy a scenic ride up Tioga Road as we climb toward the trailhead, gaining elevation and leaving the busy valley behind.

By late morning, we begin hiking from Cathedral Lakes Trailhead, following a stunning section of the iconic John Muir Trail. Today’s trek covers approximately 5.5 miles with significant elevation gain, making it one of the more physically demanding days of the trip. With full packs and higher altitude, the pace is intentionally steady, allowing time for rest breaks, hydration, and acclimatization. Your guides will closely monitor the group and provide support, coaching, and encouragement throughout the climb.

The trail winds through alpine forest and granite landscapes, gradually opening up to expansive High Sierra views. Lunch is flexible and may be enjoyed along the trail or upon arrival near camp, depending on the group’s pace and preference.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Upper Cathedral Lake, one of Yosemite’s most iconic alpine settings. Surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness, we’ll set up camp and settle in for the evening. After a well-earned dinner, take time to relax by the lake, soak in the scenery, and enjoy your first night deep in the Yosemite backcountry.

Hiking: 5.5 Miles +1500ft/-500ft

Wake up to a crisp High Sierra morning as your guides prepare breakfast and begin breaking down camp. Mornings at elevation can be cold, and depending on conditions, we may take a bit of extra time to warm up and get moving comfortably before hitting the trail.

Today’s route takes us deeper into Yosemite’s high country, covering approximately 7.5 miles as we traverse a dynamic landscape of alpine meadows, granite ridgelines, and forested trails. The day includes both climbs and descents, with a steady rhythm that allows for breaks, hydration, and time to take in the expansive scenery. As always, your guides will set a manageable pace and provide support throughout the hike.

Along the way, we pass through the Sunrise area, a beautiful and remote հատված of the park, before continuing toward our destination near Henry Lake. The trail gradually descends into a quieter, less-traveled section of the backcountry, offering a true sense of solitude.

By late afternoon, we arrive at camp and get everyone settled in for the evening. After setting up tents and relaxing from the day’s effort, we gather for a well-earned dinner in camp. As the sun sets over the High Sierra, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the rewarding feeling of another incredible day on the trail.

Hiking: 7.5 Miles +1200ft/-1800ft elevation

Day four delivers one of the most unforgettable—and rewarding—experiences of the entire journey. After an early breakfast and packing up camp, we begin our hike toward Sunrise Creek, with the option to summit the iconic Clouds Rest along the way.

The day’s route covers approximately 6.5 miles, featuring a mix of steady climbs and descents through classic High Sierra terrain. As we approach Clouds Rest, your guides will prepare the group for what lies ahead. The summit ridge is narrow and exposed, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Yosemite, including a direct vantage point of Half Dome. For many, this is a highlight of the trip—but it’s important to note that it involves exposure and requires comfort with heights.

For guests who prefer a less exposed option or if weather conditions are unfavorable, an alternate route allows us to safely bypass the summit while still continuing toward camp. Your guides will help each guest make the best decision based on comfort level and conditions.

After taking in the views and completing the day’s hike, we descend toward Sunrise Creek, where we arrive in the late afternoon. Camp is set among peaceful forest surroundings near flowing water—an ideal place to unwind after a big day on the trail. We wrap up the evening with a well-earned dinner, sharing stories and reflecting on one of Yosemite’s most iconic alpine experiences.

Hiking: 6.5 Miles +1000ft/-1800ft elevation

Today is the pinnacle of your Yosemite backpacking adventure—the opportunity to summit the iconic Half Dome. For those aiming to reach the summit at sunrise, the day begins early, waking approximately three hours before first light to begin the ascent under headlamp. This timing offers a quieter, more serene experience and the chance to watch the sun rise over the Sierra from one of the most well-known viewpoints in the park.

For others, a more relaxed morning allows for a later start, with flexibility to attempt the summit at a comfortable pace or even in the evening for a sunset experience. The hike to Half Dome is short but demanding, covering 2.7 miles one way with significant elevation gain. The final ascent includes the famous cable route, where your guides provide support, instruction, and encouragement to help you safely reach the top.

Summit timing can vary widely depending on group pace and conditions, but reaching the top rewards you with sweeping panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, the High Sierra, and the journey you’ve completed so far.

After returning to camp, enjoy a well-deserved lunch and a slower-paced afternoon. Spend time relaxing near Sunrise Creek or along the Merced River, reflecting on the accomplishment and taking in the peaceful surroundings. The evening concludes with dinner in camp, celebrating an unforgettable day in one of Yosemite’s most iconic landscapes.

Hiking: 2.7 Miles +2000ft elevation

Your final day on the trail begins with an early breakfast as your guides break down camp and prepare for the hike out of the backcountry. With packs loaded one last time, we set off toward Curry Village, retracing a scenic route that gradually transitions from remote wilderness back into Yosemite Valley.

Today’s hike covers approximately 7.5 miles, featuring a significant descent as we make our way down toward the valley floor. Along the way, enjoy changing perspectives of Yosemite’s iconic landscapes—from quiet forested sections to dramatic granite walls and glimpses of the Merced River below. It’s a rewarding final stretch that offers time to reflect on the journey and everything you’ve accomplished over the past several days.

By early to mid-afternoon, we arrive back at Curry Village, marking the completion of your guided backpacking adventure. After de-rigging gear and sharing final moments with your group, we wrap up with goodbyes—leaving you with lasting memories of Yosemite’s backcountry and a true sense of accomplishment.

Hiking: 7.5 Miles +1300ft/-4800ft elevation