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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.

Adventure highlights

  • Off the beaten path

    Explore the hidden areas of Yosemite and backpack in its wild northern areas or across the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne 

  • Inspiring scenery

    From granite peaks and old-growth forests, to impressive canyons and rushing waterfalls—get surprised at every turn

  • All-inclusive adventure

    Don’t worry about the gear, permits, or meals and just concentrate on hiking, skill-building, and making memories

Available itineraries

Backpacking Tour in the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne

Explore the hidden beauty of Yosemite's Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne on this guided backpacking tour. Discover rushing waterfalls, tranquil pools, and the majestic Tuolumne Meadows. It’s a 5-day adventure, with all permits, meals, and equipment provided. Immerse yourself in nature, surrounded by granite domes and peaks, as the pure waters of the Tuolumne River carve through the 3,000-foot-deep canyon. This trip is perfect for water lovers and those seeking to visit a less-visited area of the park.

  • Meet your guide in the parking area in front of the White Wolf Lodge/Campsite at 4 pm. Get acquainted with the group and gear. If time allows before dinner, we’ll explore some of the area’s hidden gems, like the tranquil meadows or nearby trails. Enjoy dinner with the group and camp at the White Wolf Backpacker’s Camp at approximately 8,000 ft (2,438 m).

    Tent in a forest, in Yosemite.
  • After breakfast, we’ll go on a long but mostly downhill 10.5-mile hike dropping over 3,500 feet (1,067 m) into Pate Valley (4,380 ft/1,335 m) on the western end of the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne. We’ll descend through diverse terrain, from dense forests to open vistas, soaking in the breathtaking scenery along the way. Once we’ve reached your campsite, we’ll set up our tents and enjoy a delicious dinner.

    Meals: Lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 10.5 mi (16.9 km)
    Elevation: +100 ft, -3,600 ft (+30 m, -1,097 m)

    Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne river in Yosemite, during sunset.
  • Today’s journey begins after breakfast, with a hike along the Tuolumne River, gradually ascending eastward. Our group will follow the river’s winding path, offering dramatic views of granite walls and cascading waterfalls. We’ll hike approximately for 7 miles (11.3 km) to a picturesque riverfront campsite nestled within the canyon’s granite walls, across from the captivating Cathedral Creek cascades into the Tuolumne. At the end of the day, we’ll enjoy another great dinner before retreating to our tents. 

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 6.9 mi (11.1 km)
    Elevation: +1,600 ft, -350 ft (+488 m, -107 m)

    Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne.
  • After the regular morning activities, we’ll continue our trek up the Tuolumne, passing famous spillways such as Waterwheel Falls, LeConte Falls, and California Falls. We’ll arrive at Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp (7,980 ft/2,432 m), where we’ll have time to relax along the beach below before witnessing a spectacular sunset from a nearby bluff. What a way to finish the day! 

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 6.5 mi (10.5 km)
    Elevation: +2,250 ft (+686 m)

    Backpackers enjoying sunset in Yosemite while sitting on a bluff.
  • After breakfast and breaking down your tents, our group will start the last hike of the adventuredeparting the Tuolumne River gorge and ascending into the expansive Tuolumne Meadows (8,600 ft/2,621 m). We’ll hike for 5,5 miles (8.9 km) with breaks at prime water holes and serene lakes. Upon reaching the Tuolumne Meadows, we’ll catch a shuttle back to the vehicles at White Wolf. Expected ending time is between 12 pm-2 pm. Say goodbye to your Yosemite hiking guide, fellow hikers, and Yosemite—or continue touring on your own. 

    Meals: Breakfast and lunch
    Hiking: 5.5 mi (8.9 km)
    Elevation: +700 ft (+213 m)

    Waterfall, Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne, Yosemite.
Backpacking Tour in the Hidden Parts of Northern Yosemite

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the hidden northern reaches of Yosemite National Park. This backpacking tour is a 6-day journey into untouched Yosemite wilderness, with its granite peaks and breathtaking scenery. We’ll camp beside pristine rivers and backcountry lakes, surrounded by deep canyons and dense forests. Led by experienced guides, this trip promises an authentic wilderness experience in one of the last true wilderness areas of the Sierra Nevada. All permits, meals, and equipment are provided for a hassle-free adventure.

  • Meet your guide in the parking area of the Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Permit Center at noon. Get acquainted with the group and your gear while enjoying your lunch. Afterward, our group will go on a six-mile hike out of the Tuolumne Meadows, heading north towards the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne—a breathtaking glacier-cut river canyon. This mostly downhill hike meanders through alpine meadows and across massive granite slabs. We’ll set up camp at the Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp (7,980 ft/2,432 m) next to a pristine swimming hole. 

    Hiking: 6.3 mi (10.1 km)
    Elevation: -700 ft (-213 m)

    Tent in a forest, in Yosemite.
  • We’ll get an early start and do the regular morning activitiesbreakfast and packing up. Today, we’ll continue hiking along the Pacific Crest Trail. We’ll trek seven miles through the Cold Canyon before reaching an amazing vista overlooking Virginia Canyon and beyond. Then we’ll descend until we reach a campsite near Return Creek at 8,500 ft (2,591 m). We’ll set up our tents and enjoy dinner in great company.

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 8.0 mi (12.9 km)
    Elevation: +1,700 ft, -700 ft (+518 m, -213 m)

    Rugged terrain in Yosemite.
  • After a leisurely breakfast and packing up, continue your trek along the Pacific Creat Trail and into the Spiller Canyon. After that, your group will climb to Miller Lake. Enjoy time at this high alpine lake before setting up a camp. Spend another evening in great company, with tasty food and interesting conversations by the campfire. 

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 4.5 mi (7.2 km)
    Elevation: +800 ft (+244 m)

    Hikers on Miller Lake
  • Once we’re done with breakfast and packing up our stuff, we’ll ascend out of the Miller Lake basin before dropping into Matterhorn Canyon. We’ll leave the Pacific Crest Trail and continue deep into Matterhorn Canyon, surrounded by spectacular geological formations. We’ll continue hiking until we reach the camp for the night. Later, our group will proceed with regular evening activities.  

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 8.4 mi (13.5 km)
    Elevation: +1,200 ft, -1,300 ft (+366 m, -396 m)

    Miller Canyon in Yosemite.
  • After breakfast, we’ll climb over Burro Pass at 10,600 ft (3,231 m) before descending into the Slide Canyon. We’ll climb out of Slide Canyon and over the Mule Pass (10,440 ft/3,182 m) as we exit Yosemite. We’ll proceed about 1,5 miles more past the extraordinary eastern Sierra pinnacles to camp along the shore of Crown Lake (9,450 ft/2,880 m). This is our last evening, so we’ll take a chance to celebrate a little before going to sleep. 

    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 6 mi (9.7 km)
    Elevation: +2,200 ft, -2,000 ft (+671 m, -610 m)

    Granite mountains in Northern Yosemite
  • After breakfast and breaking down our tents, it’s time to continue hiking. We’ll continue our descent through the Eastern Sierras, passing lakes, rivers, streams, and small waterfalls on our way to Annett’s Mono Village Resort on the east side of Twin Lakes at 7,092 ft (2,161 m). Once there, we’ll reward ourselves with lunch, cold beverage, and/or ice cream before catching the scheduled shuttle back to Tuolumne Meadows to retrieve vehicles. Say goodbye to your Yosemite hiking guide, fellow hikers, and Yosemite—or continue touring on your own. 

    Meals: Breakfast
    Hiking: 7.2 mi (11.6 km)
    Elevation: +100 ft, -2,550 ft (+30 m, -777 m)

    Backpackers in the hidden, northern part of the Yosemite National Park.
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Meet your guides

Scott Gehrman
5.00
Scott Gehrman
Scott is the Founder and Executive Director for Lasting Adventures, Inc. and has been guiding in Yosemite since 1995, in which he has personally logged over 8,000 miles. Scott is a recognized expert on the Yosemite backcountry and is often sought out and/or referred to by the park service to offer input and advice to other visitors and/or for park planning purposes. He holds certification in Basic Backpacking Awareness, is certified as a Wilderness First Responder by the Wilderness Medicine Institute of the National Outdoor Leadership School, and is trained as an Outdoor Emergency Care professional. In addition to actively facilitating the Lasting Adventures program in Yosemite, Scott has also expanded the program to other National Parks, including Olympic, Lassen/Volcanic, Joshua Tree, and Sequoia-Kings National Parks. When not on the trails or in the Lasting Adventures office, you might be able to catch Scott on the slopes snowboarding in Tahoe, or scuba diving at some remote destination.
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.

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5.00 (5 reviews)
Awesome trip!
Mara B (source: TripAdvisor )

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!

HIGHLY Recommend Zachary Naegele from Lasting Adventures
Jennifer O (source: TripAdvisor )

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!

Unreal Experience
Amanda S (source: TripAdvisor )

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!!

Grand Canyon of Tuolumne Backpacking Trip
MarkPrimrose (source: TripAdvisor )

Absolutely amazing trip, would recommend it to anyone who wants an adventure, very few other hikers and absolutely stunning views, a total back to the wilderness experience

Best backpacking experience
Lisa (source: TripAdvisor )

The recent HIdden Yosemite backpack trip was my first Lasting Adventures experience and first time in Yosemite National Park. I couldn’t ask for a better initial immersion into place, with two outstanding guides, Bella and Will.

The route they chose offered daily wonders that kept my soul and spirit in awe. Bella and Will generously offer playful, positive energy, species and ecology information that heightened my reception of the Yosemite wonders, fresh cooked meals (unbelievable), and an ease of time together on the trail. If you’re looking for an outstanding experience in Yosemite, I strongly recommend you connect with Lasting Adventures.

Things to know

  • What you get on this adventure:

      • Experienced, Yosemite hiking/backpacking guide(s) with extensive knowledge of the area
      • A 5-day or 6-day Yosemite hiking & camping tours (depending on your chosen itinerary)
      • Backpacking permits
      • Required Park Reservations
      • Meals during the adventure (as indicated in the itinerary)
      • Personal backpacking equipment — backpacks, single-person tents, sleeping bags, pads, trekking poles, eating utensils (upon request)
      • Group camping equipment
      • Overnights at camping sites
      • All transit during the adventure

    What’s not included:

      • Transportation to and from the meeting point
      • Accommodation before and after the adventure — if applicable
      • Travel/medical insurance — recommended
      • Park entry fee
      • Personal expenses before heading into the backcountry
      • Guide gratuities
  • 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:

      • Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
      • Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
      • Camp sandals/shoes
      • Underwear/undergarments (synthetic preferred for hiking) and long underwear
      • Spare clothes for layering
      • Light waterproof rain jacket, fleece/warm wool jacket, and warm synthetic jacket for mornings and evenings
      • 1-2 Pairs of lightweight hiking pants and shorts
      • Sunhat, beanie, bandanas/buffs, mosquito head net
      • Swimwear, camp pillow and towel
      • Personal medication
      • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
      • Headlamp or flashlight
      • Sunglasses
      • Camera — optional (but recommended)
      • Cards, small games, book and other things for entertainment at the camp — optional 

    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:

      • For these group adventures, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 5:1. The number of participants in a group is usually between 4 and 8.
      • The cost does not decrease as the group grows

    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 you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors younger than 18 are permitted to join, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. Both adventures are family-friendly! 

    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.

    Secure your early bird spot with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you will be the first one to know about any new upcoming dates. Pick your preferred dates without the risk of your bucket list adventure selling out!

      • Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure anytime in case the dates don’t suit you.
      • Once the dates are set, you can confirm your booking by paying another 20% of the total amount.
      • The final balance is due 3 months (90 days) prior to departure.

    Cancellations

    Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

    Basic

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.

    Flexible

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.

    Super Flexible

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
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