In Yosemite, trails aren’t just paths—they’re invitations to adventure. We’ll start with the Merced River whispering its secrets as we run beside it. Then, we’ll take on climbs that reward with vistas so vivid we’ll wonder if someone adjusted nature’s saturation settings. We’ll feel the sun on our skin, the grit of dirt underfoot, and the soothing aroma of sunbaked pine needles as Sentinel Dome and El Capitan come into view. Evenings? Campfires crackling, hearty meals fueling our next adventure, and stars shining so brightly they’ll make us forget our smartphones. Step into Yosemite’s story, stride by stride.
Discover Yosemite’s legendary trails on this multi-day trail running adventure. From the gentle Merced River to the thrilling heights of the North Rim, each day offers unforgettable routes and views. Starting with a relaxed riverside jog, we’ll explore iconic landmarks like Sentinel Dome, Tunnel View, and El Capitan. With fully supported routes, options for every level, and all meals included, this trip blends adventure and comfort under Yosemite’s starlit skies.
We’ll gather at our Yosemite campsite around 1pm to kick things off. After a brief orientation, we’ll head out for a laid-back shakeout run along the Merced River. Back at camp, we’ll enjoy a hearty dinner to fuel up for the days of adventure ahead.
Meals: Dinner
Running: 4 mi / 6.4 km
Accommodation: Campsite in Yosemite
For our first day of running, participants have two route options. The first starts at Tunnel View, climbs up to Taft Point and Sentinel Dome, then descends via the Four Mile Trail, covering 20 miles / 32 kilometers. The second option is a bit shorter, starting from McGurk Meadow, joining the main route at Taft Point, continuing to Sentinel Dome, and descending the Four Mile Trail for a 13.5-mile / 21.7-kilometer journey.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Running: 20 mi / 32 km or 13.5 mi / 21.7 km
Elevation: +5,300 ft / +1,615 m or +2,300 ft / +701 m
Accommodation: Campsite in Yosemite
On Day 3, runners can once again choose between two distinct routes. The first option takes on the challenge of traversing the North Rim of the Valley, opposite to the previous day’s path. This route includes summits of Eagle Peak and El Capitan before a descent back down to the valley floor on the Yosemite Falls Trail. The other route follows a scenic section of the Valley Loop Trail, leading to El Capitan Meadow, where runners can unwind and cool off with a refreshing dip in the Merced River.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Running: 20 mi / 32.1 km or 7-10 mi / 11.2-16 km
Elevation: +4,200 ft / +1,280 m
Accommodation: Campsite in Yosemite
After enjoying coffee and breakfast, we’ll pack up camp and shuttle runners back to their accommodations for the evening. We’ll share a few last stories from the trail, celebrate the week’s accomplishments, and then say our farewells.
Meals: Breakfast
Included:
Not included:
Trail running adventures should be more accessible and less intimidating for all runners, whether someone’s new to the sport or experienced. That said, this itinerary is still quite challenging, and proper training is highly recommended.
At a minimum, you should be comfortable hiking up to 15 miles / 24 kilometers in a day at a reasonable pace to attempt the full routes each day. There are always shorter, less strenuous options for those with very little experience but are up for a challenge.
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You don’t! These retreats are open to all levels, whether you’re new to trail running or have years of experience. Each day offers route options with varying distances, so you can choose what feels right for you.
Definitely not! Hiking and walking are both parts of running in mountainous terrain, and many participants choose to hike sections, especially on steeper or more technical trails. It’s entirely possible to hike large portions of each day and still complete the routes in the given time frame.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and pricing
Trail running in Yosemite can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has runners under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your trail running Yosemite adventure is Yosemite National Park. To get there, most people fly into Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT). From there, you can use public transport or rent a car to reach Yosemite.
Once you’re there, you will meet your guide around 1pm in the Yosemite area. Your guide will provide more information before the trip starts.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:
Basic
Flexible
Super Flexible
