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Yosemite Backpacking with

Lea Dawn Hart

Spend 4 days backpacking through Yosemite’s stunning backcountry with Lea Dawn Hart

 

Trip Length

4 Days

Intensity

Moderate

Group Size

8 Persons

Trip Dates

July 3 – 6, 2023

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)

$995

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 early July 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

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

  • One night at a frontcountry campsite
  • One night 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

Flights

Please plan to arrive at Fresno Yosemite International Airport by 9:00 AM 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 8:00 AM PST if you choose to arrive a day early.

Your guide will transport the group to the airport to arrive by 12:00 PM PST on Day 4. 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.

Yosemite Backpacking with Lea Dawn Hart Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Fresno, CA and meet your backpacking guide early in the morning for transfer to Yosemite National Park. Today, we’ll explore the awe-inspiring Yosemite Valley and take a hike to the epic Mariposa Grove — the largest sequoia grove in the park — before settling into camp at Summerdale Campground.

Once we set up camp, we’ll eat a hearty dinner around the fire, get to know new friends, and review our full adventure for the upcoming days.

Meals: D

Day 2

Let’s hit the trail! This morning, we’ll set off into the backcountry for a leisurely first day with all our gear. To help everyone adjust, the group will move slowly and elevation is rolling from the trailhead. This will be a great introduction into backpacking, as you’ll be alongside our expert guides the entire time!

We’ll backpack in about 5 miles to Dewey Point for an incredible evening of camping on the rim of the valley. Enjoy a group dinner while watching sunset from high above the valley floor, and sleep peacefully under a blanket of stars.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 3

After waking up to the serene sounds of the backcountry, we’ll pack up camp and head onward to Taft Point and Sentinel Dome. Get ready for more breathtaking views throughout the day’s journey, as we’ll take breaks along alpine streams, stop to look for wildlife, and soak in even more stunning vistas.

We’ll cover between 7-10 miles today with gentle elevation changes. After a big day, we’ll transfer off-trail to Oakhurst for a celebratory dinner at a local brewery (not included) before settling into a real bed. Dinner tonight will be well earned after a full day on the trail!

Meals: B, L

Day 4

Wake up for a group breakfast (included with hotel stay) and enjoy a relaxing morning. After breakfast, we’ll make the drive back to Fresno for departing flights and to say our farewells to newfound friends & adventure!

Meals: B

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)
  • Recommended Gear and personal items 
      • 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

    Yosemite Backpacking with Lea Dawn Hart

    $995

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