Some Yosemite trips pick a summit. This one picks two. Over four days, this all-women Yosemite backpacking trip climbs Clouds Rest for the best panorama in the Sierra, then earns Half Dome’s cables the following morning before dropping down past Nevada and Vernal Falls into the Valley. Permits, gear, and meals are handled well before the trailhead, so training the legs is the only homework required. Small groups, high camps, and two of the park’s most legendary summits, back to back.
Over four days, this all-women Yosemite backpacking trip climbs into the park's high country before summiting Clouds Rest and Half Dome back to back. Starting above 8,000 feet (2,440 m) near Tenaya Lake, the route eases in with alpine lakes and granite domes before pushing toward Clouds Rest's sweeping panorama on day two. Day three is reserved for Half Dome's cables, tackled with daypacks only, and the trip closes with an amazing descent through the Mist Trail past Nevada and Vernal Falls into Yosemite Valley.
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Very good fitness is required for this all-women Yosemite backpacking trip, along with the ability to carry a backpack weighing approximately 30-35 lbs (14-16 kg) over multiple days. Expect to hike up to 10 mi (16 km) in a day, gain over 2,000 ft (610 m) of elevation, and spend time at elevations approaching 10,000 ft (3,050 m).
Previous backpacking experience is helpful but not required, though comfort hiking 6-10 hours on consecutive days over rocky, uneven terrain while carrying a loaded backpack makes for a better trip. The Half Dome cable ascent requires confidence with heights, good balance, and the ability to pull yourself steadily up steep granite while wearing a daypack.
Training with a loaded backpack beforehand is recommended, and those who regularly hike 8-10 mi (13-16 km) with elevation gain and can comfortably carry 30 lbs (14 kg) will have the most enjoyable experience.
Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Yosemite hiking tours here!
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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.
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Group sizes and pricing
An all-women Yosemite backpacking trip can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your all-women Yosemite backpacking trip is Curry Village, Yosemite Valley. To get there, most people fly into Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) or San Francisco International Airport (SFO). From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Curry Village.
You will meet your guide in Curry Village, Yosemite Valley, on Day 0 or Day 1, depending on personal preference.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors 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.
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.
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The most incredible experience. I learned so much, Jen, our guide, was the absolute best and such a gem! She made learning fun, she was encouraging throughout, and was so accommodating!