Who’s down for an epic backpacking tour? We’re not talking about those same-old tourist attractions. We’re diving deep into the park’s hidden nooks—the kind of places that’ll make you feel like a true explorer. Take your pick: a 5-day journey through the refreshing 3,000-ft Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne or a 6-day alpine expedition in the untouched northern corners of Yosemite. Get all you’d expect from adventuring in the wild—the campfire stories, complete immersion into nature, and memories to last a lifetime. Best part? We’ve got it all sorted—experienced guides, delicious meals, gear, permits… All you have to do is show up to hike and…enjoy.
I chose the Hidden Yosemite trip and joined two other Washingtonians that I hike with regularly. What an incredible trip. First and foremost, our guides Will and Bella were awesome. They kept us well fed, educated on the history of Yosemite. Who knew that the white powder on an aspen tree could be used as sunscreen? They made the whole journey memorable. I can’t imagine a better way to experience this amazing place. A sincere thank you to Lasting Adventures and to Will and Bella!
Lasting Adventures and more specifically our guide, Zachary Naegele, made my trip to Yosemite a dream vacation! It was stress-free because every detail was covered from food and transportation to clear meeting instructions and itinerary. Zachary was a joy to have on hikes because he was knowledgeable, competent and personable. He took a hike that would have been fun and made it magical by explaining the history and ecology of the area we were hiking. He matched our athletic pace and often let us lead so we didn’t feel “pressured” to keep up as all the people in my group were not used to the altitude. His calm and confident control of the situation when I got scared trying to summit Lembert Dome was priceless and I couldn’t have asked for anyone better when I panicked! I can’t say enough good things about Zachary and Lasting Adventures. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THEM!
We went on a trip with Nolan through the Grand Canyon on the Tuoloumne. This was an epic trip mostly because we were truly in the wilderness, and Nolan knew everything about it! We learned so much about “Leaving No Trace”, how to look out for wild animals, and how to protect yourselves from them if needed (we didn’t) and lots about John Muir. We were out for 5 days and only passed about 5 people. The hiking was strenuous, but the swims in the icy tuoloumne river were a perfect pairing. The scenery was like nothing I’ve seen before, truly a magical place. With no cell phone service, constant sound of running water, awe inspiring natural beauty and good company this trip will forever leave an imprint on my heart and soul!
This is our second trip with Lasting Adventures. The two trips couldn’t have been more different, but both were amazing. I’d recommend going out with them anytime!!
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
These Yosemite hiking tours require strong hiking experience and, preferably, some backpacking experience as well. These tours are open for people who hike regularly and are generally physically active. The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne itinerary includes daily hiking covering between 5.5 and 9.5 miles (8.9-15.3 km)—with an elevation gain of up to 2,250 feet (685 m). Similar in difficulty is the Hidden Yosemite itinerary, with daily hiking between 4.5 and 8.4 miles (7.2-13.5 km), and an elevation gain of up to 2,200 ft (670 m).
During both adventures, all participants should be able to carry a 30-50lb backpack. Temperatures can get very high in the summer nights and it can also get pretty cold during the nights (due to high elevations). Your guides will always be by your side during hikes and will notice if it gets too strenuous for anyone in the group, making frequent breaks. They will also teach you all the necessary skills you need for backpacking.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, trekking poles, camp pillows, bowls, mugs and sporks are all included in the price of the trip. However, feel free to bring any of these items if you have your own. Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. Make sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast and adjust your packing list accordingly. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans. A comprehensive equipment list will be made available upon booking.
All dates listed for these itineraries remain tentative until your guides confirm trailhead permits, usually 22-23 weeks in advance. Although their success rate is high, should they not gain the exact dates through permitting, you will be contacted and offered choices including new dates and/or different itineraries. Should no alternative work, a full cancellation/refund will be granted.
Please refrain from making travel arrangements (that are unchangeable) until dates/permits are confirmed.
You can expect excellent backcountry cuisine throughout your guided Yosemite backpacking tour! Typical breakfasts might include burritos, oatmeals, pancakes, dried fruit, bagels, etc. For dinner, your guides will prepare a variety of pastas, risottos, beans, couscous, meats, vegetables, etc. Lunch will consist of trail food with fruits, vegetables, pita, bagels, salami, cheeses, hummus, trail mix, energy bars, etc. All special dietary requests (vegan, keto, gluten-free, vegetarian—you name it) can be easily accommodated, just let your guides know in advance!
Group sizes and prices:
Yosemite hiking & camping tours can be arranged for larger or for private groups (with a custom date). Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
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.
You will meet your guide at the White Wolf Campground for the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne itinerary at 4pm on Day 1 and at the Tuolumne Wilderness Center for the Hidden Yosemite itinerary at 12pm on Day 1. If arriving the day before, we suggest finding accommodation in Curry Village, Yosemite Village, Foresta, or El Portal.
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!
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
I chose the Hidden Yosemite trip and joined two other Washingtonians that I hike with regularly. What an incredible trip. First and foremost, our guides Will and Bella were awesome. They kept us well fed, educated on the history of Yosemite. Who knew that the white powder on an aspen tree could be used as sunscreen? They made the whole journey memorable. I can’t imagine a better way to experience this amazing place. A sincere thank you to Lasting Adventures and to Will and Bella!