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Granite giants, misty waterfalls, enormous canyons—and 800 miles of trails! Explore Yosemite beyond the postcards on a private full-day hike tailored just for you. Choose between 5 awesome itineraries to unlock both its hidden gems and iconic sights —alongside guides who know the place like their backpack. Best part? There is truly something for everyone. Want a Yosemite introduction? Hit the Valley. Already been there? How about the Tuolumne Meadows? Feeling adventurous? Climb Mount Hoffman. Panoramic views? We got you covered. Let’s trade “been there” for “blown away.” Ready to properly explore the world’s third oldest national park? Let’s go!

Adventure highlights

  • Your people, your pace

    Spend a full day (or more!) exploring Yosemite on a private tour tailored just for you

  • 5 different itineraries

    With this many options, there’s something for everybody—no matter the fitness level or preferences!

  • Expert guides

    From the trailhead to the endpoint, you’ll be joined by knowledgeable and fun guides who will take you to the best spots

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Available itineraries

Yosemite Valley Private Full-Day Hike

Get ready for an unforgettable full-day guided private hiking tour through Yosemite Valley. Led by a professional guide, explore iconic landmarks like El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome, along with hidden gems. Learn about Yosemite's rich history and the local flora and fauna. Suitable for families and hikers of all levels, this customizable tour allows you to set the itinerary with your guide. Ideal for first-timers or those seeking an easy to moderate Yosemite Valley experience.

  • The tour begins at the Curry Village Tour Desk at 4,035 feet (1,230 meters). Perfect for first-time visitors or those eager to experience Yosemite’s iconic landmarks, this full-day excursion offers a diverse array of hikes. Traverse to renowned destinations such as Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, Mirror Lake, and Happy Isles, alongside hidden gems like the Sequoia trees and Indian Caves. Break up the hikes with visits to cultural and historical sites, tailored to the group’s interests. Learn about prominent geological features like Half Dome and Glacier Point while enjoying an easy to moderate hiking experience suitable for all skill levels and families. This comprehensive tour can also be extended over two days to ensure you explore all Yosemite Valley has to offer.

    Hiking: 6-10 miles (9.7-16 km)

    Ethereal beauty of the Yosemite Valley during summer.
Tuolumne Meadows Private Full-Day Hike

Discover the beauty of Yosemite's high country on a full-day guided private hiking tour of the Tuolumne Meadows. Led by an experienced guide, explore landmarks such as Lembert Dome, Soda Springs, and Dog Lake, amidst the vast meadows. Whether you're seeking adventure or a leisurely family outing, this tour offers something for everyone. Enjoy the tranquility of the area, away from the crowds, while learning about its natural and geological wonders. Perfect for those eager to explore a lesser-known part of the park or seeking a new adventure beyond the Yosemite valley.

  • Arrive at the Lembert Dome Picnic Area. Meet your guide in the morning to discuss the day’s options. Choose from a range of customizable hikes suited to all skill levels. What follows is a sample itinerary. Begin with a scenic ascent to the summit of Lembert Dome for panoramic views of the Yosemite high country. Descend to visit Dog Lake at 9,170 feet (2,795 meters) before returning to the meadows for a refreshing stop at Soda Springs. In case of itinerary adjustments due to weather or other factors, you’ll stay informed throughout the process. 

    Hiking: 8-10 miles (13-16 km)

    Lembert Dome seen from the Tuolumne Meadows during golden hour.
Glacier Point to Sentinel Dome and Taft Point Private Full-Day Hike

This private full-day tour will take you from the magnificent Glacier Point to Sentinel Dome and Taft Point, offering some of the best panoramic views in all of Yosemite. Beginning and ending at Glacier Point, this 6.8-mile (10.9 km) trek offers breathtaking views of the high country, including Yosemite Falls, Vernal and Nevada Falls, and Half Dome. Experience the summit of Sentinel Dome at 8,122 feet (2,476 meters) and explore the dramatic fissures of Taft Point. While the initial mile is strenuous, the remainder of the journey is more moderate, making it suitable for families, friends, or solo hikers seeking adventure and stunning scenery.

  • Your hike starts at the Glacier Point Parking Lot, situated at an elevation of 7,205 feet (2,196 meters), with the ultimate goal of reaching the summit of Sentinel Dome at 8,120 feet (2,475 meters). This guided hike, which begins and ends at Glacier Point, offers breathtaking views of the high country before venturing to two iconic destinations: Sentinel Dome and Taft Point. After soaking in the panoramic vistas from Glacier Point, the journey unfolds with a 6.8-mile trek to the summit of Sentinel Dome and the awe-inspiring Fissures and Taft Point. While the initial mile presents a more strenuous ascent, the remainder of the trail offers a more moderate terrain, suitable for hikers of varying abilities. This guided excursion offers an ideal blend of adventure and accessibility.

    Hiking: 6.8 miles
    Elevation gain: 1,150 ft (350 m)
    High point: Sentinel Dome at 8,120 ft (2,475 m)

    Happy hiker at the Glacier Point, with incredible panoramic views of Half Dome and other peaks.
Mist Trail/Nevada Fall Loop Private Full-Day Hike

Yosemite’s waterfalls are gorgeous—we agree. And this private full-day tour will take you along the Mist Trail/Nevada Fall Loop, Being Yosemite's most popular trails, this adventure promises incredible views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, two of the park's most renowned waterfalls. Traverse the eastern edge of Panorama Cliff and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite's landscape. Conclude your journey by returning to the valley via the iconic John Muir Trail, offering fresh perspectives of the majestic waterfalls you just explored. 

  • Your hike starts at the Curry Village Tour Kiosk, located at an elevation of 4,035 feet (1,230 meters). Join your guide at 8 am and begin with a sociable warm-up mile on a paved path to the Mist Trail trailhead near the Happy Isles visitor center. The adventure unfolds with a strenuous ascent along the Mist Trail, passing by the majestic Vernal Fall and continuing to the top of the impressive Nevada Fall. Enjoy a relaxation break at the summit of Nevada Fall, savoring lunch amidst unmatched natural beauty. Next, conquer the last uphill trek to the high point of the day at 6,620 feet (2,018 m), offering breathtaking panoramic views and a perfect photo opportunity. Descend along the scenic John Muir Trail, which provides unique perspectives of Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap, and Half Dome. You will then reach Curry Village, where the day began.

    Hiking:  7.2 miles (11.5 km)
    Elevation gain: 2,585 ft (788 m)
    High point: Panorama Trail 6,620 ft (2,018 m)

    Vernal Falls, Yosemite.
Mount Hoffman Private Full-Day Hike

Looking for something more challenging? Then hiking to the top of Mount Hoffman is for you! This lesser-known peak, standing at 10,850 ft (3,307 m), offers one of the best and most exciting day hikes in Yosemite. Beginning at May Lake, the trail leads to the summit with an exhilarating scramble. Along the way, marvel at the stunning May Lake, and ascend above the tree-line to reach the peak, known as the geographical center of Yosemite. Enjoy panoramic views, including John Muir's favorite vista, showcasing the park's high country in all its glory. 

  • This tour starts from the Sunrise Trailhead at an elevation of 8,150 feet (2,484 meters), with the ultimate goal of reaching the summit of Mount Hoffman towering at 10,850 feet (3,307 meters). Depending on preference, the journey begins either at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead or the May Lake Parking lot, offering varying trail lengths. From Sunrise Trailhead, you will first reach the Tioga Pass road, followed by an ascent to May Lake. The trail then leads to the May Lake High Sierra Camp. What follows is a challenging 2-mile 1,500-foot (457-meter) ascent to Mount Hoffman’s summit. This final stretch involves a strenuous uphill climb, navigating loose granite boulders and rocks marked by cairns. Despite the demanding terrain, the 360-degree views from the peak make every step worthwhile. Marvel at breathtaking vistas of iconic Yosemite landmarks, including Half Dome, Cloud’s Rest, the Clark Range, the Cathedral Range, and Tuolumne’s High Country. Following the summit experience, descend back to May Lake, where you can unwind with a swim or fishing session amidst Yosemite’s high country surroundings. 

    Hiking: 11 miles (17.7 km)
    Elevation gain: 2,700 ft (823 m)
    High point: Mount Hoffman at 10,850 ft (3,307 m)

    May Lake as seen from Mount Hoffman, Yosemite NP.
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Meet your guide

Lasting Adventures
5.00
Lasting Adventures
Hiking & Backpacking Guides
Operating since 1997, the non-profit Lasting Adventures, Inc. is the #1 backcountry outfitter in Yosemite National Park. Their small group backpacking trips are all-inclusive as they provide free use of quality gear provided to them by corporate partners such as Gregory, Big Agnes, and Leki. In addition to supporting you along the trail and while in camp, their professional guides take care of making high-quality and delicious meals and other camp chores. Their guides and outdoor educators are the key ingredients to our success at Lasting Adventures. While they all come from different backgrounds, they also all share a passion for adventure, fun, American National Parks, and sharing outdoor experiences with others to create memories that last a lifetime.
5.00 (4 reviews)
Incredible guided day hike!
Rachel D (source: Tripadvisor)

We had an incredible experience with Lasting Adventures! It was our first visit to Yosemite and kicking off the trip with a guided hike was perfect. It was just our group of 4 (me, my husband, and 2 friends) which was great because we got to ask lots of questions and take the day at our preferred pace. Our guide, Michael, was absolutely wonderful – very welcoming and easy to get along with! He is so knowledgable about the park, its history, and the nature and wildlife. He came well-prepared with sunscreen, bug spray, and extra water and snacks for all. And he took a bunch of quality photos of our group! The hike included a great mix of epic sights from higher elevations, and provided us with a nice overview of Yosemite, as well as ideas for other hikes to do on our own during the rest of our trip. I highly recommend Lasting Adventures for your trip to Yosemite. We were blown away!

Great Day Hike to Vernal Falls and Yosemite Falls
Catherine (source: Tripadvisor)

Our family of 6 (2 adults and 4 teenagers) had a great day yesterday hiking the mist trail to Vernal Falls and then moving on to other highlights in the Yosemite Valley. Our guide Eric was really friendly and chatty and very knowledgeable about the history of Yosemite and the geology, flora and fauna of the valley. He really knew his way around so we got to see a lot in 5/6 hours and avoided the more populated paths where possible. Thanks for a great experience Eric!

Fantastic Day Hike with Lasting Adventures!
LABTraveler4ever (source: Tripadvisor)

Our family of three did the Nevada Fall Loop hike with Matt as our guide. Not only was Matt extremely knowledgable and friendly, he was very patient with my constant picture taking and mediocre pace. He engaged our 12 year old son and made this rather hard hike truly fun for all of us. Matt shared lots of interesting facts about Yosemite, wildlife and flora in the area. Highly recommend Lasting Adventures, as they were extremely professional and responsive from the booking process to the day of our excursion. Fabulous memories made on this hike!

One of the most underrated hikes in Yosemite
gregsf11 (source: Tripadvisor)

This is easily one of the top 5 hikes in Yosemite, made all the better by the fact that it’s on so few people’s radar. My hiking partner said she liked it better than Cloud’s Rest. With Mt. Hoffmann, you get a beautiful alpine lake (May Lake), juxtaposed against a granite backdrop -the quintessential Sierra scenery that people come to the park for, plus you get expansive views of Half Dome, marmots, a scramble up rocks, and an unexpected ridge that suddenly opens up dramatic views of the other side of the park. And the best part is that you “only” have to invest 6 miles round trip. You’re higher than Half Dome, higher than Cloud’s Rest, and way higher than Glacier Point. Like most Yosemite trails, you lose about 90% of the crowd when the going gets even slightly tough. But that’s still a lot on trails like Nevada Falls -thousands become hundreds. But here, dozens become just a few. It’s a shame. They’re missing out.

Things to know

  • What you get on this adventure:

      • Experienced, Yosemite hiking guide(s) with extensive knowledge of the area
      • Private full-day (6-8 hours) hike in the Yosemite National Park (specific location depends on the chosen itinerary)
      • First aid kit, water purification methods, toilet paper (for emergencies), sunblock and bug repellent

    What’s not included:

      • Transportation to and from the meeting point (pick-up and drop-off from your hotel can be arranged) 
      • Accommodation before and after the adventure — if applicable
      • Lunch and snacks
      • Travel/medical insurance — recommended
      • Park entry fee
      • Guide gratuities 
  • These Yosemite full-day hiking tours vary in difficulty, but all require at least some hiking experience. The Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows tours are perfect for beginners. They usually involve between 6 and 10 miles (9.7-16 km) of hiking and are highly customizable, which will affect the actual distances and elevation gains. 

    A little more strenuous is the Glacier Point and Beyond tour and not because of the mileage (which is roughly the same as with the last two tours), but because the first mile of the hike will involve a pretty sharp uphill section, with a total elevation gain of 1,150 ft (350 m). 

    The Yosemite’s Waterfalls and Mount Hoffman tours are much more strenuous and require strong hiking experience from participants. The first one usually involves around 7 miles (11.3 km) of hiking, but with an elevation gain of 2,585 ft (788 m). Reaching the top of Mount Hoffman, on the other hand, involves 11 miles (17.7 km) of hiking, with an elevation gain of 2,700 ft (823 m). It’s also important to add that the high point during the Mount Hoffman hike will be at 10,850 ft (3,307 m), so some prior acclimatization is recommended especially for this tour.

    Please keep in mind that temperatures can get very high in the summer. Your Yosemite hiking guide(s) will always be by your side during hikes and will notice if it gets too strenuous for anyone, making frequent breaks.

  • Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

      • Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
      • Lightweight hiking boots or shoes with good ankle support
      • Trekking poles — recommended 
      • Daypack large enough to fit everything you may need in a day
      • Lunch and snacks (trail mix, energy bars, dry fruit etc.)
      • Light waterproof rain jacket
      • Fleece/warm wool jacket
      • Lightweight hiking pants/shorts
      • Sunhat
      • Swimwear and small towel
      • Personal medication
      • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
      • Headlamp or flashlight
      • Sunglasses
      • Camera — optional (but recommended)

    Dress comfortably and according to the season. Make sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast and adjust your packing list accordingly. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

  • Group sizes and prices:

    • For these private adventures, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 5:1. 
    • These Yosemite hiking tours are open for solo hikers and private groups between 2 and 8 participants. 
    • The cost decreases as the group grows, so it’s a perfect chance to travel with friends and family! 

    Yosemite day hikes can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements:

    • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
    • These guided Yosemite day hikes are family-friendly! Children are welcome to join, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. 
  • To get to Yosemite, most people fly into Sacramento International Airport which is around three hours away from the park or the Fresno/Yosemite International Airport which is also three hours away. Another option is flying into the San Francisco International Airport, just over four hours away from the park. From here, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service. 

    For the Yosemite Valley and the Yosemite’s Waterfalls Tour, you will meet your Yosemite hiking guide at the Curry Village Tour Kiosk at 8am. 

    For the Tuolumne Meadows Tour, you will meet your guide at the Lembert Dome Picnic Area at 9am. 

    For the Glacier Point and Beyond tour, you will meet your guide at the Glacier Point Parking Lot at 9am. 

    For the Mount Hoffman Tour, you will meet your guide at the Sunrise Lake Trailhead at 8 am. 

    Please note that the driving time will vary somewhat depending on the itinerary you choose as they have different meeting points. If arriving the day before, we suggest finding accommodation in Curry Village, Yosemite Village, Foresta, or El Portal. 

    Transportation from your hotel to the meeting point and back can be arranged for an added fee of $300 or $400 for your entire group (depending on your distance from the route). This option may not always be possible, but is generally a good option for anyone located within a 1-hour drive from the route. You’ll be able to leave a note for your guide with a pick-up location during booking or you can contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency in the wilderness, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.

    Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans. 

    We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. 

    If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

  • Day Trips Cancellations
    Fully refundable within the initial 48 hours from booking, unless the trip date is less than 7 days from the time of the booking.
    Cancellations up to 7 days prior to the trip date are refundable 100%.
    Cancellations within 7 days prior to the trip date are non-refundable.

  • 57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.
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