Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trip
Experience Yosemite as few visitors do, as you venture into the backcountry! Your naturalist guide will navigate, as you explore gushing waterfalls, panoramic vistas, lush meadows, and more.
Trip Length
6 Days

Intensity
Moderate – Strenuous

Group Size
8 Persons

Trip Dates
June 30 – July 5 – SOLD OUT!
Activities
Camping
Hiking
Backpacking
Included
Medically-trained, naturalist guides
Round-trip transportation
Campsite reservations & fees
Tent, sleeping pad, and group camping equipment
All meals indicated in itinerary
Park entry fees
Not Included
Gratuity for your guide
Sleeping bag (Available to rent for $50)
Meals on the road or in town (see itinerary)
Personal camping gear (see pack list)
$1795
Trip Info
Yosemite National Park is known for the stunning and unique valley in its heart. But the park, which is roughly the size of Rhode Island, is full of awe-inspiring destinations from jaw dropping granite formations to gem like alpine lakes that can only be reached by multiple days on the trail. Join our guides for an unforgettable journey into the backcountry – a true California adventure.
Weather
Summer in Yosemite is generally quite mild during the day and can still get quite cold in the evenings. Daytime temperatures in June usually peak around the low to mid 80s (depending on elevation) with nighttime lows dropping as low as the mid 50s to upper 40s at higher elevations. Rain is not uncommon though most days are sunny or overcast. Snow on trails may stick around in higher elevations so muddy conditions are likely on some hiking days.
Group
Good Trippers can be any age but most of our travelers are in their 30s – 50s.
We get families, couples and friends, but most of our travelers come solo! We have hiking trips for all abilities, just make sure to review the Intensity section for information about what to expect on your trip.
All public trips are 18+. If you’re traveling with kids, we’d be happy to make any itinerary private! Email info@goodtripadventures.com.
Intensity – Moderate to Strenuous
Hiking days will usually include about 6 total hours on the trail, covering anywhere from 5-8 miles on the day with weight. This trip includes one day of day hiking and three days of backcountry hiking, so it’s best for travelers who are comfortable being active for most of the day, multiple days in a row. Some hiking experience is recommended. Backpacking experience is not required.
Accommodations
- Two nights at a frontcountry campsite
- Two nights at backcountry campsite
- One night at 3-star hotel
- Price is based on double occupancy accommodations
- Single supplement is available for an additional $200 per person
Accomodations for Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trip
Flights
Please plan to arrive at Fresno Yosemite International Airport by 2:00 PM PST on Day 1. Your guide will pick you up shortly after arrival. Alternatively, your guide can collect you from your accommodation or another central point in Fresno (within 30 minutes of airport) by 1:00 PM PST if you choose to arrive a day early.
Your guide will transport the group to the airport to arrive by 2:00 PM PST on Day 6. Please plan a departure after that time. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to book a hotel, please be prepared to find personal transportation to the airport (via Lyft, taxi, etc).
Travelers are also welcome to drive from southern California if that is more convenient. If you choose this option, you’ll meet your guide at your camping accommodations in the park.
Flights for Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trip
Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trip Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in Fresno, CA and meet your backpacking guide by mid-afternoon for transfer to Yosemite National Park. We’ll stop along the way for stretch breaks and snacks before arriving at our campground home (for the next two nights, anyway!). Once we set up camp, we’ll eat a hearty dinner, get to know one another, and get the low-down our full adventure..
Meals: D
Day 2
This morning, we’ll head out on the trails of Yosemite for a full day of hiking in the valley. The day will include several short, mild hikes along the valley floor with stops to see iconic points of interest such as Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan, Half Dome, and Mirror Lake. Along the way, your guide will share information about the wildlife and human history of the area. This is a great day to familiarize yourself with your backpack and gear!
Meals: B, L, D
Day 3
Today, we begin our adventure in the backcountry! The first few miles are often the most challenging as we adjust to our weight, but the views will make it quickly worth it. Our guides will keep a comfortable pace! Total mileage on the day will likely be between 5-8 miles, depending on final permitting and trail conditions. Once at camp, we’ll review the essentials of water treatment, cooking, and keeping a safe camp.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 4
After waking up to the serene sounds of the forest, we’ll pack up camp and head onward. We’ll aim to cover more miles today and may take a break along an alpine stream, stop to look for wildlife, and soak in even more stunning vistas. Dinner tonight will be well earned after a full day on the trail!
Meals: B, L, D
Day 5
The last day on the trail is here! After packing up camp, we’ll hike back out to the trailhead, taking in some final deep breaths of the mountain air as we go. Tonight, we’ll head to the town of Oakhurst where a cozy hotel room, refreshing shower, and delicious dinner at the town’s brewery (not included in trip cost) await!
Meals: B, L
Day 6
It’s time to say goodbye to the Sierra Nevada, and your newfound friends! We’ll head back to Fresno for afternoon flights, after an amazing trip together.
Meals: None
Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trip Packing List
- Required Gear
- Backpack (45-60 L recommended)
- Duffel or suitcase (to be left in the vehicle when backpacking, 1 small suitcase or duffel per person)
- Sleeping bag (also available to rent), rated to 20 degrees or below
- Pack cover
- Headlamp
- Reusable water bottles or bladders (3L total capacity)
-
- Hiking poles
- Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner (optional, recommended if renting)
- Camping pillow
- Sunscreen
- Earplugs
- Insect repellent
- Toiletries (please choose biodegradable and scent-free items)
- Small, personal first aid kit (including blister treatment)
- Small, quick dry towel
- Personal plate, mug, and utensils (your guide will have these items if you don’t have your own)
- Required Clothing
-
- Warm jacket (down, puffy, fleece)
- Rain jacket or shell
- Rain pants
- Breathable wicking base layers
- Lightweight hiking pants
- Warm clothes to sleep in
- Warm hat
- Light gloves
- Sun hat with a brim
- Wool socks (1 pair per day of trip)
- Hiking boots
- Sunglasses
Recommended Clothing
-
-
- Buff or neck scarf
- Comfortable clothes for camp
- Sandals or camp shoes
- Clothes for dinner on final night
-
-
Packing list for Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trip