This Yosemite backpacking adventure takes in some of the most spectacular mountain vistas in the world. A great introduction to backpacking and trekking for those with previous hiking experience, this trek takes us from the high alpine Tuolumne Meadows down to the inconparable Yosemite Valley.

Hikes to the top of Clouds Rest and the summit of Half Dome add spectacular side trips to this classic backpack. We take the historic "cable route" to the summit of Half Dome, Yosemite's most famous summit.

Along the way we enjoy tranquil alpine lakes and whispering pine forests. All with a net elevation loss of over 4,000 ft! We explore the Sunrise Lakes area before hiking down past the amazing vistas of Clouds Rest and on to our Half Dome basecamp where we make camp neasr Sunrise Creek. After a summit of Half Dome, we hike down the famous Mist Trail into Yosemite Valley. At the end of the trek, we take a park shuttle back to our cars in Tuolumne Meadows. A great way to see the Yosemite backcountry in style.

View the Itinerary for this trip.

For Yosemite High Country travel and lodging information visit our Tuolumne Meadows Travel Page

For other Sierra Nevada backpacking and trekking trips see our main Trekking/Backpacking page.

Location: We meet at Tuolumne Meadows in the Yosemite high country, an hour from Yosemite Valley and an hour from the eastern Sierra resort of Mammoth Lakes.

Food: At California Alpine Guides we strive to provide healthy and delicious gourmet backcountry meals. Breakfast and dinner are provided by your guide / backcountry chef while in the field. Special diets can be accommodated.

Level: No previous backpacking experience is required. Previous hiking experience is required. Good physical condition.

Dates 2010: Jul 22-25, Aug 26-29, Sep 30-Oct 3
Custom dates available from July through September


Cost: $525 per person

Includes: Breakfast and dinner while in the field, professional mountain guides and instruction and all group camping gear and permits.