Embark on an unforgettable multi-day backpacking adventure through Yosemite Valley, where you’ll experience breathtaking waterfalls, iconic granite rock formations, and the rugged beauty of the wilderness. Hike the John Muir Trail through lush forests, past misty falls, and ascend to the summit of Clouds Rest for panoramic views of Half Dome, the Valley, and beyond. With each step, immerse yourself in the raw splendor of Yosemite’s diverse landscapes—perfect for those seeking both adventure and awe-inspiring vistas.

Trip Details

Trip Type: 6 Day Backpacking Trip to Yosemite Valley

Highlights:

Six days, five nights, and one unforgettable journey—starting at Panoramic Point, we dive straight into jaw-dropping views before trekking deep into the wild! We’ll wake up to alpine magic at Sunrise Lakes, conquer Clouds Rest with mind-blowing 360° vistas, and watch the sun set behind Half Dome after another badass day on the trail. Wrapping it all up with a misty, triumphant descent on the legendary Mist Trail, we’ll roll into the valley with sore legs, full hearts, and a well-earned cold drink—because this is the kind of trip that turns hikers into legends!

When: July 11 – 16, 2025

Trip difficulty: ★★★★

This trip is great for aspiring and experienced backpackers!

Mileage: 35 – 45 miles total trip miles depending on permit

Group Size: 8 – 12 guests with 2 – 4 guides

Cost: $1800

Trip Itinerary

Day 1

3PM – Meet at the Upper Pines Campground in Yosemite Valley. Let’s dig into our gear and weigh our packs while we are getting to know each other. A good dinner in the valley and to bed early.

Each campsite has a table, fire ring and grate. There’s also vault toilets and drinking water.

Day 2

Section: Glacier Point to Illilouette Basin

8 am – Shuttle picks up at the campsite for a breathtaking tour to Glacier Point

10:30am – Arrive at the Glacier Point Trailhead

Hiking Distance: 7 miles

Highlights: We begin our journey at Glacier Point, taking the Buena Vista Trail to the Panoramic Trail to an overlook with breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley that few get to experience. From there, we descend into Illilouette Basin, where we’ll set up camp near the tranquil Merced River.

Day 3

Section: Illilouette Basin to Little Yosemite Valley

Hiking Distance: 6 miles

Highlights: After a peaceful morning of sleeping in at Illilouette Basin, we lace up our boots and hit the trail, soaking in sweeping views as we make our way toward Yosemite Valley. A well-earned break at Nevada Falls means a refreshing swim in the cool, rushing water and a relaxing lunch with an epic backdrop. Energized and recharged, we continue to Little Yosemite Valley, where we settle in for the night—grateful for bear boxes, latrines, and another incredible day in the wilderness!

Day 4

Section: Little Yosemite Valley to Sunrise Lakes High Sierra Camp

Hiking Distance: 9 miles

Highlights: With an ambitious climb ahead, we shake off the morning grogginess, fuel up, and start our trek from Little Yosemite Valley—legs feeling strong, spirits high (or at least, that’s what we tell ourselves). The John Muir Trail will test our determination, but the jaw-dropping views of granite peaks and sprawling meadows keep us going. Along the way, we perfect our “hiker hobble” dance, dramatically debate which snack is superior (gummy bears or Swedish Fish?), and maybe even spot a marmot judging our pace. Finally, we roll into Sunrise High Sierra Camp, where the luxury of latrines and bear boxes feels downright bougie after a long, goofy, and unforgettable day!

Day 5

 Section: Sunrise High Sierra Camp to East Quarter Dome

Hiking Distance: 9 miles 

Highlights: Hiking from Sunrise Lakes High Sierra Camp to East Quarter Dome is a thrilling adventure. The trail takes you through rugged terrain, with dramatic views of the surrounding peaks as you ascend toward Clouds Rest. You’ll climb to the summit of Cloud’s Rest, traversing its narrow spine with breathtaking 360-degree views. Afterward, you’ll head off-trail to set up camp in one of the most stunning and remote spots in Yosemite National Park, with unparalleled vistas of the valley and surrounding wilderness.

Day 6

 Section: East Quarter Dome to Happy Isles Trailhead

Hiking Distance: 7 miles 

Highlights: After soaking in a truly badass sunrise with Half Dome glowing in the morning light in front of us, we pack up and begin our final descent, cruising past alpine vistas before tackling the legendary Mist Trail. Waterfalls thunder beside us, drenching us in their cool spray as we navigate the slick stone steps—equal parts epic and slippery adventure. With legs burning but hearts full, we finally emerge back in the valley, where our cars (and a well-earned cold drink) await. Cheers to conquering the mountains, making unforgettable memories, and smelling just a little questionable!

What is included:

• 1 nights stay at the backpacker’s campground night one, in Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park
• Training Plan
• Equipment List with suggestions and weight goals
• Backpacking Guidebook with Everything You Need to Know
• National Park Permit and Fees
• 1 Group ZOOM call discussing gear, food, and Q&A
• 1 one-on-one call with a lead guide to review health history
• A one-on-one call with a lead guide to review gear and answer any questions
• 2 Wilderness First Responder Certified Lead Guides
• 1 Wilderness First Aid Certified Assistant Guide
• 3 Group First Aid Kits
• Satellite GPS beacon for communication and rescue
• Walkie Talkie devices for all guides for communication on trail

      What’s Not Included –

• Flights & Transportation to all trailheads and parks
• Rescue Insurance
• Yosemite National Park Entrance Fee – Included if you shuttle into the park
• All Food, Snacks and Beverages
• All Backpacking Equipment
• Lodging before and after the trip
• Guide gratuity – Tipping is optional but customary. (Industry recommends 10-20% of trip cost)

Guide gratuity – Tipping is optional but customary. (Industry recommends 10-20% of trip cost)awarded by March 2nd, 2025 or earlier. At the time of the permit announcement, you will have 5 days to confirm your spot or get a refund.

SOLD OUT

Terms and Conditions-

“Trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances beyond our control, including, but not limited to permit or campsite availability, snowpack, river crossings, wildlife, park or land closures, flooding and forest fires. The price of a hiking trip will never change increase due to itinerary changes. Payments are not refundable for itinerary changes or park or land closures. If a trip is cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control and no alternate itinerary is available a trip credit will be issued equal to the full amount paid minus any nonrefundable expenses incurred by the Company.”