best 3 day backpacking trips in yosemite

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10 Killer Backpacking Trails in Yosemite National Park

Posted by Emily Pennington September 16, 2019 Updated September 04, 2023

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With over 700,000 acres of panoramic wilderness and 800 miles of developed trails, Yosemite is perhaps the most iconic national park in the entire country — and for good reason.

I couldn’t help but gasp the moment I pulled my car around the bend to catch my first glimpse of the famed Tunnel View . My friend in the passenger seat started singing the Jurassic Park theme song, and I felt instantly transported to a bygone era.

Giant domes of glacially carved granite rose up from the earth like the shells of massive petrified tortoises. Waterfalls cascaded down thousands of feet from the cliffs above, and a dense green forest carpeted the valley below as far as my eyes could see.

Everything felt impossibly huge. It was, quite literally, breathtaking.

Related Read: 7 Best Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals Near Yosemite National Park

Backpacking In Yosemite

If you’ve got more than 24 hours to visit this majestic landscape in person, planning a multi-day backpacking trip is a fantastic way to get up close and personal with some of the top attractions at Yosemite National Park . It’s also the best way to escape the crowds, as most visitors don’t make it into the backcountry.

There’s something for everyone at Yosemite, from the valley-addicted photographer to the high-altitude hermit seeking solitude. Here’s a list of the best overnight backpacking trips to get you started.

Related read : 9 Super Scenic Hikes in Yosemite National Park, California

1. Gla cier Point Loop

Why you should go: A two-day trek that delivers a highlight reel of the best natural attractions at Yosemite National Park.

• Distance: 18.25 miles
• Elevation Gain: 5,214 feet (total)
• Difficulty: Challenging

If you’re an avid hiker looking to cram as much as possible into a two-day trip, this is the loop for you.

Grab a permit from Glacier Point or Happy Isles to Little Yosemite Valley, lace up your shoes, and get ready to rack up some vertical gain. The Glacier Point Loop starts at the historic Glacier Point Trailhead, with sweeping panoramic views of the Yosemite Valley surrounding you for nearly the entirety of the hike.

“Beautiful trail, completely worth the journey,” says visitor Briana Cruz on AllTrails .

If you hike clockwise (recommended), you’ll descend the many switchbacks of the Four Mile Trail , meander through the most populated area of the valley, hop onto the John Muir Trail at Happy Isles, climb up to a roaring Nevada Falls, and camp at Little Yosemite Valley. It’s a brisk 11 miles with 2,628 feet of gain.

After a grueling day one, the second day offers a more leisurely seven-mile jaunt with 2,586 feet of gain past Half Dome, around Liberty Cap, and back over Nevada Falls before hikers are spit out onto the aptly named Panorama Trail . Get your cameras ready, folks, because the most iconic views of Half Dome are all over this trail.

After catching a side-peek of the powerful rush of Illilouette Falls, it’s time to chug water and climb the remaining few sunny switchbacks towards the car. Buy yourself an ice cream bar at the Glacier Point store and soak in the view — you’ve earned it.

Related Read:   9 Adventurous Things to Do in Yosemite National Park, California

2. Ten Lakes Loop

Why you should go: This 2-3 day high-altitude romp is heaven for alpine lake lovers.

• Distance: 20 miles
• Elevation Gain: 4,922 feet (total)
• Difficulty: Moderate (three days), Challenging (two days)

The trail up to Ten Lakes is always a fan-favorite for beginner backpackers and crusty old veterans alike.

Beginning near Porcupine Flat on Tioga Road, the trailhead climbs through dense, fragrant pine forest for two miles before passing through the lush, green corn lilies of Half Moon Meadow. The path quickly turns alpine as it ascends to a high pass at 9,671 feet above sea level, giving lucky hikers a stunning view of the Ten Lakes Valley below. There’s no shortage of great campsites here, and venturing a bit off-trail to a more secluded lake is a real treat.

From here, hikers can turn back the way they came for an easy day two, or they can tackle the absolutely gorgeous and crowd-free final 13.5 miles to make a loop.

The trail passes by a phenomenal view of the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne before it climbs up and over a high pass near Tuolumne Peak. If your legs are killing you at mile 11, solitude and excellent camping can be found at Polly Dome Lakes. But, if you’re up for it, the remaining 3 miles to Tioga Road are a cinch if you’re dying to get back to the car.

When you’re done, stick your thumb into the air and catch a ride back to the trailhead — hitchhiking is legal in most national parks!

Pro tip: If you’ve got extra time on your hands, a side trek up to May Lake is well worth the effort.

Related Read:   8 Epic Backpacking Trips in Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon

3. Cathedral and Sunrise Lakes Loop

Why you should go: Catch a glimpse of Cathedral Peak’s craggy summit and camp at a pristine, alpine lake on this two-day weekend trek.

• Distance: 19.5 miles (without Clouds Rest)
• Elevation Gain: 3,675 feet (total)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Hop onto the John Muir Trail heading southbound from Tuolumne Meadows and wave at sweaty, happy thruhikers as they pass you by on your climb towards Cathedral Lakes .

The views of Tuolumne’s many famous domes are fantastic the higher you ascend. Cathedral Peak’s rocky summit spire makes for an excellent beacon as hikers huff and puff their way towards it, gaining 1,000 feet in just 2.5 miles.

After edging around Columbia Finger, hikers will descend to a grassy, picturesque meadow before climbing up through Sunrise High Sierra Camp. You can choose to camp here, but for a little extra solitude, continue for a little over a mile to Sunrise Lake 3.

Great news — campfires are allowed below 9,600 feet in Yosemite National Park, so walk around and grab a gorgeous spot with a lakeside view and an existing fire ring.

From here, adventurous hikers can tack on Clouds Rest before heading down to Tioga Road and taking the shuttle, hitchhiking, or walking along the adjacent trail back to your car stashed at Tuolumne Meadows.

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4. High Sierra Camps Loop

Why you should go: A stunning six-day loop through Yosemite’s high country with meal and tent cabin options for the sophisticated hiker.

• Distance: 49 miles
• Elevation Gain: 6,100 feet (cumulative)

The Yosemite High Sierra Camps were developed between 1916 and the early 1960s, providing visitors with a luxurious backcountry experience that’s rich with history. The High Sierra Camps Loop is an excellent thru-hike option for visitors who have some cash to spend and don’t want to lug a heavy pack around the high country.

Most visitors opt to book “glamping” tent cabins and meals at each camp so that they hike in a 49-mile loop, going from Tuolumne Meadows Lodge to Glen Aulin, to May Lake, to Sunrise Camp, to Merced Lake, to Vogelsang, and finally back to Tuolumne Meadows.

The days on trail range from 6.8 – 9.5 miles , climbing up and over 10,000-foot mountain passes, through prehistorically green alpine meadows, and past the deep blue sapphire of many, many alpine lakes. This six-day trek is a bucket-list item not to be missed.

Related Read:   An Epic Guide to California’s 14ers: Hiking & Climbing the High Peaks

5. Hetch Hetchy Loop

Why you should go: Solitude. In the words of John Muir, “Hetch Hetchy is a grand landscape garden, one of nature’s rarest and most precious mountain temples.”

• Distance: 29 miles
• Elevation Gain: 7,759 feet (cumulative)
• Difficulty: Moderate (four days), Challenging (three days)

Before Hetch Hetchy was dammed in 1923, it was a favorite Yosemite landmark for naturalist John Muir. He even went so far as to call it as beautiful as the more famous Yosemite Valley to the south.

Since then, the O’Shaughnessy Dam has turned the fabled area into a major water source for San Francisco, but that doesn’t mean that the area isn’t worth a visit. In fact, it’s the best place in the entire park to get away from the throngs of tourists populating the crowded valley.

This loop can be done in 3-4 days, depending on how burly you’re feeling. It starts at the O’Shaughnessy Dam and circles Hetch Hetchy in a clockwise direction. Since the first day out features a staggering 3,527 feet of elevation gain, we recommend starting early to beat the heat and camping at Laurel Lake.

From there, continue on to Lake Vernon (great camping for night two), circumnavigate the ever-looming Mount Gibson, and zigzag down the switchbacks towards Rancheria Falls before returning back along the reservoir towards the dam.

This trek is a haven for backpackers and waterfall-lovers looking for something less crowded and off the beaten path in Yosemite National Park.

Related Read:   7 Gorgeous Spots to See Fall Colors in California

6. Pohono Trail To Glacier Point

Why you should go: Nab exquisite views of Yosemite Valley and escape the crowds on this overnight adventure.

• Distance: 14 miles
• Elevation Gain: 5,622 feet (total)

Park in the lot to the right of the infamous Tunnel View, lace up your boots, and get ready to climb. The Pohono Trail wastes no time before throwing hikers right into the belly of a set of dappled, forest switchbacks. In no time, you’ll likely have the place all to yourself, escaping the mayhem of photographers down below, all vying for that perfect shot.

The panoramic views of the valley and Bridalveil Falls are the real star of this trail, so be on the lookout for turnoffs towards Old Inspiration Point, Stanford Point, Crocker Point, and Dewey Point as you hike. About 7.5 miles in, you’ll cross an adorable bridge over Bridalveil Creek, and we recommend pitching your tent here.

Day two is a collage of epic views of Taft Point, Yosemite Falls and, you guessed it, Half Dome. Finish your quest at Glacier Point and consider buying yourself a popsicle and enjoying the splendid view before heading back.

Logistics on this hike can be tricky, so ask the rangers about current water conditions and camping restrictions. Since the trail ends on the opposite end of the valley as it begins, you’ll have a “choose your own adventure” moment at the end of the journey. Shuttle two cars, utilize the bus from Yosemite Lodge, or hitch a ride back down to Tunnel View!

Related Read:   14 Wow-Worthy Hikes at Mount Shasta, California

7. Young Lakes Loop

Why you should go: This high altitude trek traverses alpine lakes, wildflowers, and campsites under the bohemoth summits of Ragged Peak and Mt. Conness.

• Distance: 16 miles
• Elevation Gain: 3,136 feet (total)

The hike up to Young Lakes is perhaps the best glimpse of untouched, alpine landscapes that Yosemite has to offer.

Head north on the trail towards Dog Lake, opting for a side jaunt up to the amazing views on the mini-summit of Lembert Dome. When you’ve had enough of the killer views of Tuolumne, mosey down the granite slabs to Dog Lake and cool off in the crisp, fresh snow melt.

From here, the trail winds through a meadow strewn with yellow monkeyflower, crimson paintbrush, and airy purple lupine. You’ll continue up and over a ridge extending from Ragged Peak before crossing a grove of whitebark pine trees. Nab a campsite at the first lake or continue on to lakes two and three if you’re seeking solitude.

When you begin your return to civilization, be sure to stay right at the junction to create a loop. Amble downhill through boulder-laden alpine meadows, hop onto the Pacific Crest Trail for a short while, and pass by the quaintly gurgling Soda Springs before returning to your vehicle.

Related Read:   10 Best Glamping Spots Near Joshua Tree National Park, California

8. Cathedral Lakes

Why you should go: A short out-and-back hike up to a pair of stunning glacial lakes, nestled under the towering shadow of Cathedral Peak.

• Distance: 9 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,738 feet (total)
• Difficulty: Easy (but high altitude)

If you’re new to backpacking but want to soak up all the majesty of the Yosemite high country, Cathedral Lakes is the trail for you. It’s one of the shortest treks you can obtain a backcountry permit for, and the views along the way are second to none.

Take the Cathedral Lakes Trailhead and hike south. The looming dome of Cathedral Peak’s north side will come into view early on in the hike as you ascend up, up, up, through a thick, verdant forest.

Before you know it, you’ll be thrust into a lush, alpine meadow. Keep an eye out for the sign marking the junction towards lower Cathedral Lake. If you’re jonesing to camp with a fire, you’ll want to turn off here and select a site with a pre-existing fire ring. Or, simply tack on this extra mile hike to catch a glimpse of both lakes while you’re out.

If you’d like a little more solitude and an even more epic look at Cathedral Peak, continue south on the JMT until the small, aquamarine tarn of Upper Cathderal Lake comes into view. Scramble up a few boulders and gaze out across the electric sky for the best sunset view in the joint.

When you’re ready to head home, simply turn around and hike back the way you came.

Related Read:   18 Stunningly Secluded Cabin Rentals in California

9. Big Oak Flat Road To Yosemite Falls

Why you should go: Escape the crowds, camp on top of El Capitan, and get a bird’s-eye view of Yosemite Valley on this two-day mini thru-hike.

• Distance: 18 miles
• Elevation Gain: 6,247 feet (total)

Loved the movie Free Solo ? This hike circumnavigates the star of the film. No, not Alex Honnold – El Capitan.

The trek starts off at the Old Big Oak Flat Road Trailhead and immediately starts climbing through a verdant pine forest. Soon, the shouts and selfie sticks of Yosemite Valley will all fade away, and you’ll be left with solitude and quiet as your boots crunch along the steady uphill of the trail.

Be mindful of your water level as you hike – creeks here can dry up in late summer months!

Camp at Ribbon Meadow, adjacent to the summit of El Capitan itself and make a point to wake up extra early to watch the magical glow of sunrise stretch its way slowly across the valley as you drink your morning coffee.

Tack on an optional summit of the breathtaking Eagle Peak before a long descent on the Falls Trail. Grab a ride or take the shuttle back to the base of El Cap to get your car when you’re done.

Related Read:   The Most Scenic Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Itinerary

10. Grand Canyon Of The Tuolumne Loop

Why you should go: Cascading waterfalls, alpine lakes, towers of granite, and the roaring Tuolumne River offer the best of Yosemite’s high country on this longer 4-6 day loop.

• Distance: 47 – 55 miles (starting at White Wolf or Tuolumne)
• Elevation Gain: 9,631 feet (cumulative)

“Holy Granite!” You’ll be pinching yourself for the majority of this trail to make sure you aren’t dreaming. This multi-day loop can be hiked from either White Wolf or Tuolumne Meadows, so pick your poison and reserve a permit early.

If you begin the journey at Tuolumne Meadows, you’ll hike a moderately graded dirt path for five miles to Glen Aulin. There’s a High Sierra Camp here if you prefer to camp near a pit toilet, but we recommend you continue on a few miles and grab a more secluded tent site near the river. Check fire restrictions before you head out — they may be in place late season for lower elevations.

Hang a left and head towards Pate Valley, following the swift, blue line of the Tuolumne River for the next 16 miles. You’ll stroll past massive granite rock faces and cross under several imposing waterfalls like California, LeConte, and Waterwheel. Eat lunch in the shade near one of the many swimming holes and take a dip in the frigid water to cool off.

Most hikers will hit a gnarly, 3,500-foot ascent on day three (if hiking out of Tuolumne), which can easily be broken up by planning to camp near Morrison Creek. If you’re lucky, you might even nab a spot with an epic view of Hetch Hetchy!

From here, you could end the trek early at White Wolf or loop through a shady, wooded area and begin the ascent towards Ten Lakes. It’s a bit of a bear, but the 12-mile hike from Morrison Creek to the first of the lakes is well worth it, and you’ll catch a stellar sunset from this incredible alpine basin.

For the final leg, the trail meanders through wildflower-strewn meadows, up and around Tuolumne Peak, and across a lovely forested area before returning to Glen Aulin. If you’re looking to cut the mileage, Polly Dome Lakes has several choice campsites and is only a half-mile off the route.

Return back the way you came, heading down the storied Pacific Crest Trail towards Tuolumne.

Related Read:   14 Epic Campgrounds Near Los Angeles, California

A Word On Wilderness Permits

Because of its beauty and recent Instagram fame, Yosemite’s wilderness permits can be tricky to score. The best way to ensure you nab your top trail pick is to plan your trip a few months in advance, so there’s ample time to get the right permit.

Permits are available via an online lottery system 168 days in advance of the hiking start date. They’re are required year-round, though reservations are only needed from April to November.

Planning a last-minute excursion to John Muir’s favorite valley? 40 percent of all trailhead permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis no earlier than 11am the day before your hike begins.

Weekdays are best for snagging a coveted permit for a popular trailhead, making this an excellent option if you’re feeling lucky and have some extra time.

Related Read:   11 Stunning Glamping Spots Near Yosemite National Park, California

Don’t Forget Your Bear Canister

C ritters are practically everywhere you turn in Yosemite. That’s great for photos, but unfortunately, many of the animals are accustomed to the presence of humans.

In an effort to keep wildlife wild, bear canisters are required (and available for rent) for all overnight travel within Yosemite National Park. You’ll need to store all excess food, trash, and smellables inside the canister before you go to bed, and hide it at least 100 feet from camp.

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Seen in: Backpacking , Backpacking in California , California , National Parks , Southwest , Yosemite

Posted by Emily Pennington

Emily Pennington is a national parks and travel columnist at Outside. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian, Condé Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, Adventure Journal, REI Journal, and Backpacker, to name a few.

Her memoir about visiting every national park, Feral , launched in February 2023, and now that it’s finished, you can find her backpacking in the Sierras and drooling over Colorado real estate.

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Home » North America » Yosemite

INSIDER YOSEMITE ITINERARY for 2024

Famed for its ancient sequoia trees and incredible vistas, Yosemite is an American paradise! The National Park is ideal for adventurers, offering so many exciting Yosemite activities with some of the best views you can find.

Our Yosemite Itinerary is filled with days of beauty and adventure. It’s perfect for all kinds of travelers and can be adapted to any trip, whether you’re spending 2 days in Yosemite and want to tick everything off, or weeks deep-diving into the spirit of the destination!

Climb El Capitan, feel the spray of Yosemite Falls, and visit some of Yosemite’s most ephemeral views and attractions on this Yosemite Itinerary

A Little Bit About This 3-Day Yosemite Itinerary

Where to stay in yosemite in 3 days, yosemite itinerary day 1: induction & the highlights, yosemite itinerary day 2: half dome, museums & spa,  yosemite itinerary day 3: views, adrenaline & vino, what to do with more than 3 days in yosemite, best time to visit yosemite, how to get around yosemite, what to prepare before visiting yosemite, faq on yosemite itinerary, final thoughts.

We have set out this 3-day Yosemite itinerary to try and cover all the headline attractions that the wonderful park has to offer. There is a lot of hiking to do here and you may not have the energy to do it all. In that case, simply head back to your campsite or hit the bar and kick back!

Our itinerary for Yosemite includes all the best of where to go, and what to do, when you travel to Yosemite! Explore the National Park and the famous valley, and enjoy a perfectly rounded 3 days in Yosemite. 

On your first day of a 2-day itinerary in Yosemite, you’ll see some of the park’s best attractions, and enjoy a few adventure activities! We’ve picked stops that can be curated to all types of travelers and fitness levels. 

If you only have one day in Yosemite, stick to day 1 on our Yosemite itinerary!

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3 Day Yosemite Itinerary Overview

Day 1 in Yosemite: Hike into the park | Yosemite Falls | Campfire Dinner

Day 2 in Yosemite: Half Dome |  Ansel Adams Gallery | Yosemite Museum | Relax at Ascent Spa

Day 3 in Yosemite : Yosemite Tunnel View | River Rafting | Wine tasting  |  Sunset & Stargazing at Glacier Point Overlook

When you’re spending about 3 days in Yosemite, you need to decide between lodgings in the Yosemite National Park itself, and accommodation nearby. Choosing where to stay in Yosemite is important to making the most of your time.

The best option is finding a hotel inside Yosemite Park itself. You have easy access to all the Yosemite attractions, like the iconic El Capitan and Yosemite Falls! The location is ideal, and often hotels inside the park offer guided hikes as well as discounts on tours and activities.

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Accommodation ranges from self-catered cabins and budget B&B’s in Yosemite , to first-class hotels. This means you really don’t have to go beyond the park when looking for a place to stay!

However, accommodation in the park is more costly than further away, and depending on when you’re planning a trip to Yosemite, it may all be booked out. If so, you can find a great place in Yosemite Valley! There you can find some of the best Yosemite Airbnbs which offer just as much value as a place inside the National Park.

A 30-minute drive from the National Park, the village is tranquil and lovely. Hangout with the locals at one of the bars, shop easily at the village stores, and use it as a base for your Yosemite itinerary adventures!

There are also some camp sites. These are by far the most economic options. Or, if you have a bit extra in your budget there is a huge selection of VRBOs in Yosemite .

Best Hostel in Yosemite – Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort

The best hostel in Yosemite , this charming resort is a short drive from the National Park. It’s a great place to meet adventurous people and relax after a long day of exploring. Located on a forested hillside, the resort has a great kitchen, a restaurant, and even a health spa!

Best Budget Hotel in Yosemite – Reverse Creek Lodge

Book a cottage at this family-friendly lodge! It’s a fantastic budget option, with fully equipped kitchens in each cottage, a patio with barbeque facilities, and gas fireplaces. It’s a 25-minute drive from the national park, with hiking trails and the Mercer river a short walk away! It’s the Best place to stay in Yosemite.

Best Luxury Hotel in Yosemite –  Snowcreek Resort

For a luxurious vacation in Yosemite, stay at Snowcreek Resort! The units are all gorgeous and comfortable, with everything you need, including a balcony with picturesque views. The Snowcreek Athletic Club features swimming pools, a gym, and a steam room! For a romantic stay or getaway, it’s the perfect accommodation.

Day 1 includes entering into the park (an experience in itself) a demanding but worthwhile hike and then some evening chill & kum-bya time!

10:00 AM – Arrival into The Park

Yosemite is massive and some of California’s best hikes are inside its boundaries! It has over a hundred lakes, immensely tall waterfalls and trees, and a landmass that surpasses numerous European countries. A Yosemite walking tour would take weeks!

However, you can stroll into the park from one of the five entrances, and get a good feel for the place. This is often better than just driving in! There’s so much to see and be amazed by, you want to give yourself some time to enjoy it all.

We suggest you come through the Arch Rock Entrance! This route is a stop of its own, and you’ll want to get a photo or two with the radically impressive rock you pass under! This is also the fastest route from San Francisco, making it ideal for that great Californian road trip.

If you are camping in Yosemite, then use this time to get your tent pitched up to.

• Cost –  $15 ($35 if you come by car)
• How Long Should I Stay Here? – 90 minutes to 3 hours
• Getting There   –  You can get dropped of by the Yarts bus by the entrance

 1:00 PM – Yosemite Falls

The highest waterfall in the park, and one of the highest in North America, Yosemite Falls is a top Yosemite attraction! It’s a steep but short hike to get there, and you’re well rewarded.

The waterfall has three separate cascades. In spring these will be massive with snow runoff, making it the best season to see it! It’s a short walk from the little Yosemite Village where you can buy any necessary supplies for your Yosemite vacation.

If you want to hike up to the top of the falls it will take you 8 hours! With only a 3 day itinerary in Yosemite, it’s best to hike to one viewpoint and move on to the next Yosemite point of interest.

• Cost –  Free with entrance
• How Long Should I Spend Here?  – Allow 3-4 hours for the climb and descent
• How To Get There –  Walk from the valley floor

5:00 PM – Dinner and a Campfire!

Yosemite is all about the little joys, about lighting a camp fire, cooking up some food and simply enjoying being in nature. You can buy wood in the store (don’t forage for wild wood as this is not permitted). The stores in Yosemite can be pricey so its best if you bring some tins and pasta into the park with you but I suggest picking up a few bottles of Sierra Madres California ale to drink by the fire side.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

The bulk of Day 2 in Yosemite is going to be taken up by the Half Dome Hike. In order to climb Half Dome you will need a permit as daily visitor numbers are limited and access is carefully regulated. You would be wise to apply for your permit as far in advance as you possibly can.

8:00 AM – Half Dome

This granite cliff is smooth and round on three sides, and looks like it was cut in half! You can see it from miles away, but we recommend you hike to the east side of Yosemite National Park and get a good look at it!

The base of Half Dome is the perfect place to enjoy a midday picnic. With the spray of the waterfall on the breeze and greenery all around, it’s a wonder. 

The best hike in Yosemite is the hike all the way to Half Dome’s summit. You have incredible views over the valley, and the hike itself includes some very interesting areas!.

However, it’s a very strenuous hike and will take up to a day to complete. You also  need a special permit  to complete the hike. This does need sorting well in advance but this is such a classic Yosemite experience that it cannot be missed.

• Cost –  No cost but make sure you get your permit and bring a packed lunch
• How Long Should I Stay Here? –  Set aside a full 6 hours – they can be a queue to summit
• Getting There  – Walk from the valley floor

3:00 PM –  Ansel Adams Gallery

While you’re in Yosemite Valley, be sure to stop at the Ansel Adams Gallery ! This charming little gallery sells and showcases photography by the celebrated landscape artist. His work is so beautiful and perfectly reflects the surrounding landscape. 

Many can’t think of Yosemite without thinking of Ansel Adams – the 20th-century black-and-white photographs are iconic.

You may want to bring some of his work back home to remember Yosemite by (prints are available), but you can also just enjoy some window shopping, and appreciate the artistry!

• Cost –  Free entrance
• How Long Should I Stay Here? –  30 – 60 minutes
• Getting There –  Walk or get the Yosemite bus

4:00 PM –  Yosemite Museum

This fantastic little museum focuses on the history of the people who once lived in Yosemite Valley – the Ahwahnechee people!

Here you’ll learn about the valley’s human history – including the culture of the indigenous people, and the valley’s ‘discovery’ by European explorers. You’ll also find gorgeous landscape paintings of the area!

Exhibits include a really impressive Native basket display and examples of authentic structures found in Native American villages like the one historically situated here.

This is a fantastic opportunity to learn a bit more about the incredible place surrounding you, and dive deeper into its native history. It’s also a chance to head inside and stroll about after a long day of adventure!

• Cost –  Free
• How Long Should I Spend Here? 30 – 60 minutes
• Getting There  – Walk or take the Yosemite bus

5:00 PM – Relax at Tenya Lodge Spa

The perfect way to relax after such a full day of exploring and adventuring! The Spa has beautiful views from many of its rooms. Watch the sunset over Yosemite as you get a massage. 

The Spa caters to hikers who have spent all day carrying packs, so they know just how to get out all those aches and pains. They even have a 60-minute massage called Hiker’s Trek! 

You can have a neck and scalp massage to work on those knots. Or try something different and get a hot stone massage or Quartz aromatherapy! You’ll stroll out of here feeling strong and capable of anything, ready to day 2 of your 3-day itinerary in Yosemite!

• Cost –  Prices range from $60 to $175 USD

On day 3 of your Yosemite trip itinerary, you’ll enjoy a day even more packed with Yosemite landmarks and fun activities. You’ll spend the first half of the day with your heart beating fast, while the second half is dedicated to calm enjoyment!

9:00 AM – Yosemite Tunnel View

This is Yosemite’s most iconic vista! From this viewpoint, you’ll enjoy a panorama of Yosemite’s most famous attractions. Look out at Yosemite Valley, with beautiful cascading waterfalls and monoliths framing the scene.

The whole view looks magical – you won’t believe you’re on the same planet.

Since this is your first stop, we suggest you wake up early and get here as soon as you can! You’ll have the view all to yourself, and you can spend some time exploring the area. It’s so beautiful, you won’t want to leave!

• How Long Should I Spend Here?  1 or 2 hours to walk, take the view and enjoy life

11:00 AM – River Rafting

When touring Yosemite one of the most fun activities is a little white river rafting ! Yosemite is so full of rivers and rapids, it’s the perfect place for it.

You can find Zephyr Whitewater just outside of the National Park, and embark on a half-day trip from there! Watch the gorgeous Yosemite landscape pass you by as you navigate the rapids with your guide leading.

Alternatively (if you’d prefer not to wake up early enough to fit a half-day tour into your Yosemite itinerary), you can rent inflatable rafts! Float along the Merced River on a blissful trip downstream.

This is gonna take much off the day so eat a good, hearty breakfast before you jump in a dinghy!

• Cost – $92 – $117 USD depending on age, solo or group, and season
• How Long Should I Spend Here?  A few hours
• Getting There  – Walk or take the Yosemite bus.

4:00 PM – Wine Tasting

While you’re on the outskirts of Yosemite National Park, take a trip to one of the fantastic nearby wine farms! You’ll be able to taste a number of wines, and if you like them, take a few bottles home with you to remember this exquisite place by!

Most of the wine farms are open to tastings by booking, or over the weekend – some, however, are closed in winter. We suggest you visit Yosemite Cellars if you’re spending a weekend in Yosemite. The location is fantastic, and their tastings of four to five wines are complimentary!

• Cost:  Varies
• How Long Should I Stay Here?  – 60 – 90 minutes
• Getting There –  We’re going outside the park so either drive or find a ride

6:00 PM – Sunset and Stargazing at Glacier Point Overlook

The best way to end off a perfect day is certainly watching the sunset from this picturesque location! Be sure to get here before the sun is actually setting, so that you can enjoy the scenery all three ways – in the light, as the sun sets, and under a blanket of stars.

The sky here is so clear that you can perfectly see the Milky Way. You’ll also have a perfect panorama of the park, making the sunset one of the best you’ll ever see! Especially if there are a few clouds dotting the sky. 

You can simply drive up to Glacier Point Overlook, making it an easy trip. You won’t have to walk a far distance in the dark! There may be a few people sharing the view with you, but there certainly won’t be the kind of crowd you’ll find in the middle of the day.

Watching the various waterfalls grow golden in the sunset, and Half Dome glowing pink, is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of view. Don’t miss it!

• How Long Should I Stay Here?  – An hour or two
• Getting There –  Walk and take the night air

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in Yosemite

Yosemite Valley

Winding through the heart of Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Valley is a must for anyone visiting the region – whether you choose to stay there or not! If you do end up staying there, you’ll find some incredible adventure activities and truly rural accommodation experiences.

• The natural attractions of Yosemite Valley are why the National Park is so famous – you can’t miss out on Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Tunnel View.
• Wawona is a short drive away but a must-visit for history buffs thanks to the collection of historic buildings and pioneer exhibitions.
• Ahwahnee Dining Room is a little bit upscale, but certainly a welcome reprieve from the non-stop adventure of Yosemite National Park.

If you’re lucky enough to have more time in Yosemite, there’s still so much to do! Both in Yosemite National Park and beyond it. Strap on your hiking boots and pack in that camera!

1. Climb El Capitan

One of the most famous and most popular mountains for climbing in the world! El Capitan is an incredible stop in Yosemite! Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a total newbie, it’s worthwhile. 

El Capitan, fondly known as El Cap, was made famous by the current world’s best climber, Alex Honnold! He climbed the monolith with no ropes – something you certainly should not try to repeat yourself!

You can find a guide and a few great climbs set up for beginners. They have harnesses and helmets at the ready so that you can enjoy an easy climb with spectacular views! The guides also help you so that you know what you’re doing, making it a great activity for both adults and kids.

If you want to do the whole thing, you will need your own gear including lines and rope protectors.

If you already know how to climb and belay, and perhaps even how to lead climb, things get a bit more exciting! You can get a booklet on all the climbing routes on El Cap, and set out to find some of your favorites.

You can never climb alone, so be sure to bring a trusted belay partner, as well as all the required gear. Yosemite National Park has equipment available, but it can get pretty pricey.

There are, fortunately, no extra fees or permits required to climb here! Once you’ve paid the park’s entrance fee, you can climb wherever you want!

 2. Go Gold Panning in Mariposa

Wondering what to do in Yosemite without hiking? Gold panning is the perfect alternative, keeping you out in the sunshine!

For decades people have been obsessed with finding gold in the Merced riverbed! Once there was so much to be found, and the gold rush fueled the American economy. Feel the excitement of that Gold Fever on this fun activity!

While you can’t pan for gold in Yosemite itself, there are a number of places in Mariposa where you can give it a go! Maybe you’ll ‘strike it rich’ and find that bright golden nugget that has influenced society for millennia!

It’s called ‘prospecting’, and it’s a great activity for solo travelers, couples and families. You’ll have all the equipment provided for you in a lesson. They will also show you how to read the land for signs of gold in this historically gold-rich area!

Join a 1-hour panning lesson for $50 USD, or set out on a 2-hour excursion for $75 USD. It’s all child-friendly and lots of fun.

Or, of course, you can simply wade through the Mercer river and keep an eye out on shiny things while the rest of your crew laze on lilos in the river! It may not be as legit, but it sure sounds great!

3. Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is another important stop on your Yosemite itinerary! One of the park’s most accessible stops, this is a perfect place to visit with anyone with physical constraints or handicaps.

You can enjoy the views with a picnic lunch, or stroll around the area for an hour or two and take in the incredible nature. You will definitely get wet if you’re standing anywhere near the falls! If the sun is shining, you’ll even see a bright rainbow lending the scene a little extra magic.

When the wind blows, this fall truly does look like the veil of a bride. This makes it a perfect place to stop and get some pictures, especially for those traveling here on their honeymoon! In fact, this whole Yosemite itinerary can be extremely romantic if you’re traveling in pairs.

The walk to Bridal Veil is short and easy, but if you want to get close to the water you’ll have to clamber over some rocks. If you do, be careful – the rocks can get slippery when wet! It’s also best to make the trip early, or in the late afternoon. Due to its accessibility, it can get relatively crowded!

4. Hike the Mist Trail

With more than a 2-day itinerary in Yosemite, a hike along the Mist Trail is a must! This short hike got its name from the frequently present layer of mist that stretches along it, as it nears the banks of Vernal Falls.

The trail winds its way between the tumultuous river and the granite monoliths beside it. You’ll pass boulders the size of a house, and see so much natural beauty! You may even see the incredibly rare complete circular rainbow!

You can choose to continue your hike past Vernal Falls and onto the twice as tall Nevada Falls.  Brilliant views can be found all along the hike, so if you can continue, we suggest you do!

The hike is rather strenuous and steep, so if you have zero fitness or strength, you may have to omit it from your Yosemite itinerary (3 days). However, it is only 3 – 7 miles long and can be tackled at your own pace. Bring along a picnic to enjoy at the top while you’re sunning yourself dry!

You can make the Mist Trail just the start of your adventure and continue onto Half Dome or the John Muir Trail. Just keep in mind that a permit is required for overnighting on the trail, and another one for hiking up Half Dome!

5. Sentinel Dome

No Yosemite itinerary is complete without our last stop, Sentinel Dome ! The rocky monolith provides for an interesting hike, high above sea level. You may even feel the effects of the elevation!

It’s not a difficult hike. Only the final stretch up the granite dome is steep, but it’s short and sweet! The rest of the hike is relatively mild. You can only reach Sentinel Dome when the Glacier Point Road is open, so watch the weather! 

This hike is Yosemite’s easiest way to enjoy views of those vast undulating mountains everywhere you turn. This makes it so worthwhile! As long as you can hike, you should. Depending on the time of year you’re traveling, there may be a bit of a crowd. But it never gets too busy!

From the top of Sentinel, you should be able to see almost all of the stops on your Yosemite itinerary! It’s the perfect place to end off your Yosemite trip.

Be sure to bring a camera! You do not want to miss out on taking a few shots of these views. Not to mention yourself, with this epic backdrop! It’s really one of the best places to visit in Yosemite.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Yosemite is a beautiful place to visit at any time of the year. And because of its massive size, you’ll never have too much trouble with crowds, no matter where you stay in Yosemite! When to visit the National Park is determined by how you want to experience it!

We suggest you go in spring (March – May) when the sun is bright and warm, and relativiely few people are roaming the park. The daylight hours are temperate and ideal, but the nights get chilly, so pack some warm clothes. 

Summer (June – August) is also a wonderful time to go – the park really comes alive in the warmer months! The mountains are covered in flowers, waterfalls are roaring, and animals can often be spotted.

In winter (December – February) many of the hiking trails are closed off in the cold months due to snow. The area gets really cold, putting off some backpackers! However, this opens up Yosemite’s ski season! That’s a whole other ball of fun, and while skiing is not included in our itinerary, it’s a fantastic activity to enjoy if you happen to be here at that time. 

I visited in November. It was generally cool in the days and got seriously cold in the early hours of the morning – bring a good sleeping bag or else thermals and full winter gear.

The best way to get around Yosemite is by car. You may need to rent a car to do the trip, but it is often worth it to have full freedom in your Yosemite itinerary. With only three/two days in Yosemite, you won’t waste any time waiting for a bus, and you won’t have to rush to catch one!  A car will enable you to get around Yosemite and then take a California road trip afterwards!

Still, Yosemite does have its own public transport. A shuttle system runs through the park and stops at most Yosemite points of interest. You can also find a bus from most major cities nearby so that you don’t have to rent a car to get here. If you are happy to stick to the “main parts” of the park then the bus is as good an option as any.

The Yosemite Valley Shuttle operates throughout the year, from 7 am to 10 pm. This is a valuable service! While it may take longer than by car, you’ll get everywhere you need to be. If you’re backpacking in California and don’t have a car, you won’t be left behind! 

Note that you can get to Yosemite on

the YARTS bus from Merced train station. Merced is quite a sorry town and caution is advised.

There are few safety concerns in Yosemite National Park! As long as you pack strong walking shoes, water, and sunscreen, you’ll easily make it through your Yosemite itinerary.  If you are camping outside of summer, then I highly recomened a  good quality sleeping bag as thge nights get painfully cold – please do not underestimate the severity of this.

Wild animals are generally skittish and do not disturb the humans passing through their habitat!

There are a few safety tips to take into account so that you can ensure a safe and happy vacation in Yosemite! The most important tip is not to leave any food in your car. This can attract animals while you are away, and this is bad, both for you, and for the animals!

You may spot a black bear, but consider this an incredible privilege rather than a safety concern. The bears are not dangerous – keep your distance and respect their habitat. If one approaches you, scare them away by raising your arms and making loud noises. And keep in mind, no one has been killed by a black bear in Yosemite!

Drive slowly and safely in the park, to avoid skidding in bad weather conditions, and to ensure that you don’t hit an animal. Keep a first-aid kit on you, because it’s always good to come prepared!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Yosemite

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Yosemite itinerary.

How many days should you spend in Yosemite?

You need at least three days in Yosemite to cover all of the headline attractions that the wonderful park has to offer. Since there are so many incredibly hiking trails, having even more time to explore is definitely recommended.

Can Yosemite be a day trip?

If you’re okay with only seeing a very small part of the park, Yosemite can be visited within one day. However, a proper experience would need at least three full days.

What should you see in Yosemite?

Make sure to add these things to your Yosemite itinerary: – Yosemite Falls – Tenya Lodge Spa – River Rafting

What can you do in Yosemite today?

There are so many epic things to do in Yosemite that it can get quite overwhelming to choose. Check out GetYourGuide or Airbnb experiences for the best activities, tours and tickets.

There is so much life and beauty here, a weekend in Yosemite is hardly enough time. Nonetheless, with this Yosemite itinerary you’ll fit in all the best it has to offer!

This itinerary for Yosemite includes hikes, climbing, river rafting and star gazing – everything you need for the perfect solo trip, active romantic getaway, or family weekend. As long as you enjoy getting a little active! But it’s not all high-intensity fun. Massages and sightseeing will break up your activity lineup perfectly. 

If you have more time to spend, extend some of the stops – like Yosemite Falls and Half Dome – into half-day hikes! The views only get better, and it’ll certainly be a trek to remember.  

Now all that’s left to do is plan your trip to Yosemite! Incorporate it into a tour of California, or a great American road trip.

Art Patterson

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Three Best Yosemite Backpacking Trips | Multi-Day

When we venture out of our normal Four Corners region to escape the summer heat of the desert Southwest, we love to head to the Sierra Nevada mountains of central California. Yosemite National Park is an incredible summer hiking destination. What better place to escape the heat than to explore the numerous waterfalls, high alpine lakes, meadows, giant sequoias, and mountain peaks of one of America’s premier National Parks.

Explore the beautiful National Park of Yosemite

The Sierra Nevada mountains receive over 95% of their precipitation in snowfall between the months of October to May. This means that the summer months of June through September are typically dry and sunny and provide the most stable summer mountain weather for hiking in the US. The days are normally sun-filled and the evenings clear and plastered with stars, and it’s the ideal season to enjoy the bounty of all of that winter moisture. In early summer, the rivers and streams are raging and Yosemite Valley is alive with the force of some of the world’s tallest waterfalls cascading off the towering cliffs towards the Valley floor. Later into the summer, once the snow has melted, there is a short window available to summit the park’s famous peaks or explore the solitude of the high alpine lakes scattered across the high country. We want to share our three favorite backpacking trips in this crown jewel of America’s National Park System.

Our Top 3 Yosemite Backpacking Trips:

• Clouds Rest to Half Dome This trip encompasses two iconic peaks in the park and provides some awe-inspiring views of both Yosemite Valley and the surrounding peaks of the Cathedral Range. Starting in the high country at Tenaya Lake, you ascend towards the idyllic Sunrise Lakes prior to passing up and over Clouds Rest. At this lofty summit, you will be looking down on Half Dome with a great perspective of the Cable Route that leads to its summit. From Clouds Rest, you descend to Sunrise Creek where you can make camp and layup for the Half Dome summit the following day. The Cable Route to the top is not for those with a fear of heights but the views are definitely worth the effort. After summiting Half Dome, you will begin your final descent along the edges of the iconic Vernal and Nevada Falls down to the Valley floor. This is a classic Yosemite hike and incorporates some of the park’s most well-known features.

• Red Peak Pass Loop Yosemite has one of the National Park system’s largest established trail networks, including over 800 miles of trails. The Red Peak Pass Loop will take you into some of the lesser-visited sections of the park’s alpine wilderness. This is one of Yosemite’s more challenging backpacking trips but provides some of its most stunning scenery as a reward for its difficulty. This trip will take you into the Clark Range and will cross over the highest developed trail in the park as you ascend over Red Peak Pass. From this lofty summit, you will have one of the most amazing perspectives of the park’s landscape and the Sierra Nevada Range. Over these 5 or 6 days of backpacking, you will visit clear mountain streams, meadows, and alpine lakes and enjoy the serenity of the park without the crowds. It’s a truly spectacular trip and well worth the effort to experience this undiscovered section of the park.

For more information about multi-day Yosemite backpacking trips, contact Four Season Guides at 1-877-272-5032. Four Season Guides is located in Flagstaff, Arizona and is a 20 Year Old Guide Owned Operation.

Related posts

5 Beginner Backpacking Trips in Yosemite National Park

We love a day spent in the Valley, but if you're looking to escape the crowds, the backcountry is the answer.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

If you’re just getting into backpacking or even looking for your very first experience in the backcountry, you couldn’t ask for a more beautiful place to start than Yosemite National Park . While backpacking solo is an amazing experience, for a beginner we would recommend you go with friends or team up with some of  highly experienced guides  in the park. They’ll take away some of the stress and teach you lessons that will last you a lifetime of backpacking. Either way, any of these backpacking trips are perfect for beginners and we're sure you'll be planning a return trip before you even make it back to your car. 

1. Backpack to Young Lakes

Explore the beautiful Tuolumne Meadows and catch sunrise over some of the iconic peaks in the area like Mount Conness and Ragged Peak. For the best views, push all the way to Upper Young Lake. If you want to treat yourself to a comfy room after the trip, check out the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge .

2. Backpack to Glen Aulin

Glen Aulin is a little waterfall oasis in the heart of the Sierra. There are great day trips from camp to falls and swimming holes nearby for those hot afternoons.  

3. Backpack to North Dome

Home to arguably the best view of Half Dome in the whole park, the trip to North Dome also has the park’s only natural arch formation.

4. Backpack 10 Lakes Basin

You’re going to want to wake up early and catch sunrise from 10 Lakes Basin. Scramble up one of the ridges or head up to Ten Lakes Pass - you won’t regret it!

5. Backpack to Dewey Point

If you’re a beginner backpacker, you’re probably far from rock climbing the famed El Capitan, but on this trip you get the next best thing. You’ll have front row seats to watch climbers head up the face. Keep an eye out after sunset, you can usually see at least a few headlamps making their way up.

Once you're out of the backcountry, you'll be ready for a hot meal and a drink. Check out some of the tasty dining options right in the park  - you earned it!

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Plan A Yosemite Backpacking Trip

Located in the stunning and serene Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite National Park is the image of a lush American Valhalla. Waterfalls feed the crystal clear Merced River as it meanders through Yosemite Valley. The pines smell like butterscotch and provide a soft carpet of needles to cushion your walk. The towering cliffs are hard to look away from; proudly exhibiting the largest sheer faces of granite you will ever see. Yosemite Park has enchanted wilderness lovers since its discovery, including the famous preservationist John Muir, President Teddy Roosevelt, photographer Ansel Adams, rock climbing wonders like Alex Honnold, and generations of travelers who come to the Sierra to experience the stunning granite landscape.

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What to See in Yosemite National Park

What to see.

There is much to see and much to do in Yosemite National Park. Yosemite Valley is the part of the park that most visitors see. This is where you will find most of the Yosemite Park hotels and the most accessible of Yosemite’s trails. In the Valley, visitors can spy rock climbers ascending iconic walls like El Capitan and Half Dome, or take a refreshing dip in the Merced. If you look at a Yosemite National Park map, you’ll see that there is a lot to see outside Yosemite Valley as well.

• Explore Yosemite Valley
• See the High Country of Tuolumne Meadows and the Tioga Road
• Drive or hike to Glacier Point
• Walk among the Giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove
• Visit Hetch Hetchy Reservoir

Getting to Yosemite National Park

Directions to yosemite.

Many people have heard of Yosemite but you may not know exactly where Yosemite is in California. The park is located in central California, east of the San Francisco bay area. There are a few different options for airports you can fly into. The one you choose may depend on what else you want to see during your trip to California. Timelines are approximate and focus on the driving time to reach Yosemite Valley.

• Fresno to Yosemite – 2.5 hours
• San Francisco to Yosemite – 3.5 – 4 hours
• San Jose to Yosemite – 3.5 – 4 hours
• Sacramento to Yosemite – 4 hours

Yosemite Camping & Hotels

Where to stay.

There are a number of options for accommodations in Yosemite National Park. If you are planning a backpacking trip, you may enjoy spending a day in Yosemite Valley before or after heading into the backcountry. You can camp in one of the campgrounds, stay in a cabin, or at one of the Yosemite National Park hotels like the Majestic Yosemite Hotel (previously known as the Ahwahnee).

Planning Your Yosemite Own Backpacking Trip

Yosemite has 1,100 square miles of designated wilderness (about 94% of the park), making it the perfect destination for your next backpacking trip. To avoid the crowds in the Valley, try going to the High Country in Tuolumne or to Wawona. Don’t forget to drive slow for bears!

Hiking Half Dome

Of course, the most coveted backpacking permit is the Half Dome Permit. The quota is now only 75 permit are available every day for backpackers, 50 are reserved by lottery and 25 are offered first-come first-served, one day in advance. Some People hike to the top of Half Dome and back in one extremely long day. Instead, we find that a Half Dome summit is much more rewarding when backpacking. Learn about our Half Dome Backpacking trip .

More Yosemite Backpacking Routes

Don’t let the permitting system scare you out of your Yosemite backpacking trip. Half Dome permits are hard to get, but there are many more backcountry options as well. You can send in a wilderness permit reservation request here , as far in advance as 24 weeks before your trip. All permits are awarded by lottery. Yosemite backpacking permits are limited by the trailhead you begin your trip at, not the backcountry campsite you stay in. If your lottery request is denied for one trailhead, try a different one nearby.

Here are some of our favorite Yosemite backcountry places to camp:

• Cathedral Lakes
• Elizabeth Lakes
• The Cathedral Range
• Young Lakes
• Chilnualna Falls
• Dewey Point
• Merced Lake

Yosemite Wildlife

Bear safety in yosemite.

Be advised that bear spray is illegal in Yosemite National Park, and bear canisters for food and all “smellable items” are required for everyone in your party when backpacking. You can rent them at one of the wilderness offices for $5 per week when you pick up your permit. The bears may open up your vehicle like a tin can if you leave smellables inside, so be sure to use the brown lockers in the parking lots and at the trailheads to lock away things like hand sanitizer, food wrappers, chapstick, or anything else with a scent that you might be tempted to leave in your car.

Yosemite Wildflowers

If the wildflowers are calling and you must go, aim your visit between late May and early July. Go to elevations between 10,000-13,000 ft where the snow has recently melted and soak in the colorful display. Soda Springs, Lyell Canyon, Elizabeth Lake and Chilnualna Falls are all fantastic places to enjoy the wildflowers. Bring the John Muir Laws Field Guide ! It is undoubtedly the best book for in-field identification in the area and, best of all, it’s light.

Yosemite Weather

Yosemite has a snowy winter season, and Tioga road (which leads to the High Country) is closed due to snowpack, so planning for the weather is especially important here for backpackers. It varies depending on amount of snowpack, but Tioga road is typically closed from about mid November to mid May. The National Park Services lists the current status of Tioga road and Glacier Point listed here .

When your date to travel Yosemite gets nearer, take a look at the forecast at NPS’ useful weather map here . Remember that you are headed to the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains, so take a rain jacket regardless of what the forecast says.

In addition, with the changing weather comes the mosquitoes. Usually, mosquitoes are most active from late May through late June, but their season changes to when the air is most moist which may be affected by that year’s snowpack and temperature.

Leave No Trace (LNT) in Yosemite

On your Yosemite National Park camping trip, help keep our treasured wilderness areas healthy and beautiful by practicing Leave No Trace principles.

Plan Ahead & Prepare

• Bring a map and compass or GPS to eliminate the use of rock cairns or tape.
• Avoid heavily trafficked areas.

Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Walk on trails or rock, rather than grass.
• Camp at least 200 feet away from water sources.
• Do not build a fire ring. Find one.

Dispose of Waste Properly

• If you packed it in, pack it out, this includes your used toilet paper.

Leave What You Find

• Leave rocks, flowers and other natural items where you found them. Do not take them as souvenirs. Yosemite gets about 5 million visitors a year. Imagine what it would look like if everyone took a stone.

Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Campfires in Yosemite are prohibited above 9,600 ft.
• Use wood that is already dead and down. Do not break branches from a tree.

Respect Wildlife

• Watch from a distance and do not feed wildlife, it teaches dangerous habits.
• Protect your smellables in NPS approved bear proof containers. It protects the bears themselves.

Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• Avoid loud noises to respect others’ experience. Yield to uphill hiking traffic. Camp away from trails and other campers.

You can learn more about good stewardship of our parks and wilderness at LNT.org

Another glorious Sierra day in which one seems to be dissolved and absorbed and sent pulsing onward we know not where. Life seems neither long nor short, and we take no more heed to save time or make haste than do the trees and stars. This is true freedom, a good practical sort of immortality. John Muir

Yosemite Falls Loop

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Our friendly office staff are ready to answer any questions and help you book your next adventure!

Lot of “bang for the buck,” on this short trip, spending 3 days backpacking Yosemite Valley’s North Rim. This is a wonderfully scenic trip with moderate days and highlights including hiking alongside the highest waterfall in North America (Yosemite Falls-2,425′) and some of the best views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome in the entire Park.

$995 per person

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 meet your guide in yosemite national park.

Meet your guide after breakfast in Yosemite Valley at the Curry Village Mountain Shop at 9am. We will leave our cars in the backpacker parking lot and take a free shuttle to the trailhead. From there, we’ll set off to gain the north rim of Yosemite Valley and the top of Yosemite Falls (2,425’). After we enjoy the spectacular and improbable falls lookout point, we’ll travel another .5 mile or through evergreen forests to camp. At our creekside camp we’ll enjoy refreshing swimming holes, followed by a gourmet backcountry dinner prepared by your guide(s).

4 miles, Elevation: +3671’/ -935′

Day 2 Traverse the North Rim of Yosemite Valley

After crossing the mighty Yosemite Creek in the morning (there is a bridge!) we’ll continue along the rim to Yosemite Point lookout. Our route then continues through the Lehamite and Indian Creek drainages, eventually leading us to our camp at the incredible Snow Creek promontory with up-close views of Mt Watkins and Half Dome. After dinner, plan on enjoying a spectacular night of stargazing.

8 miles, Elevation: +1864’/ -1929′

Day 3 Descend Snow Creek Trail

Today we’ll pack our backpacks one final time and bid adieu to our high camp. We’ll head down the Snow Creek Falls trail to Mirror Lake, exiting on the eastern end of Yosemite Valley. There we can continue the additional mile back to Curry Village or we can grab the free shuttle if we feel like it. We’ll get back to our vehicles around noon.

5 miles, Elevation: +305’/ -3077′

What's Included

Accommodations.

• 2 nights of wilderness tent camping (permits included)
• All group gear including stoves, cookware, water filters, group first aid kit, etc.
• Personal backpacking gear provided by request: backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, trekking poles, and tents
• Starting with lunch on Day 1 and ending with lunch on Day 3
• Backcountry gourmet meals including trail snacks
• Hot tea or coffee served each morning

A Few More Notes

Travel & logistics.

Your trip begins and ends in Yosemite Valley, CA at 9:00am on the first day. Since the group begins hiking on Day 1 with specific mileage to cover, it is important that you are on time to meet your guide and group in the morning. Remember that there can be traffic during the summer months in Yosemite, so make sure to leave plenty of time for travel in the morning.

The evening before your trip, we recommend staying at one of the Yosemite Valley accommodations since they are the closest to your meeting point in Curry Village. Although, if needed, there are also accommodations in neighboring mountain towns. Please be aware of how long it will take you to get from your accommodations to the meeting point. On the last day of the trip, we’ll return to our vehicles between 12-1pm.

Training & Preparation

While this trip is rated as moderate and is designed to be a beginner-friendly backpack, the climb on Day 1 up Yosemite Falls (or Snow Creek switchbacks depending on direction) is quite substantial and qualifies as “Challenging”. For your training, you’ll want to focus on leg strengthening using a combination of gym workouts, stair climbing, and hiking in your local area with a fully weighted pack. The good news is that the day’s overall mileage is short, which means we can take our time and take plenty of breaks.

Looking for more tips? Check out our blog!

This itinerary may be done in reverse depending on the wilderness permit. This does not affect your meeting place or the timing of the trip. You will be notified in advance of any changes.

What's Not Included

• Personal clothing & footwear
• National Park Entry Fee ($35 for 7-day pass per vehicle)
• Recommended 10%-20% gratuity for guides
• Trip Insurance (strongly recommended)
• Transportation to/from Yosemite Valley
• Voluntary or involuntary evacuations

Trip Reviews

Mandy B, 2015

Rachel Q, 2014

Matt B, 2014

Jason R, 2013

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Pack It All In and Go

A - Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service

Yosemite mountaineering school & guide service.

Learn about  Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service .

Yosemite National Park has some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, and superb weather most of the year. With over 800 miles of trails, it’s no wonder that the park has become a must-visit destination for backpackers from all over the world. The Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service makes it easy and safe to explore Yosemite’s seemingly endless trails. Daily scheduled group trips and custom designed backpacking expeditions are available and can be tailored to your group’s unique interests and abilities.

• Reservations
• What to Bring

Our highly experienced guides will take care of everything — from obtaining the required permits to ensuring you’re well equipped with the appropriate tents, food supplies, water and clothing. Each trip is more than just a journey from Point A to Point B: it’s also an opportunity to learn lifelong skills like map and compass usage, food storage techniques, wilderness safety and stream crossing.

Please Note: Our minimum age for our group backpacking trips is 14 years old.

Guided Backpacking Trips

The Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service offers a limited supply of backpacking and camping gear, which can be rented by the day. No reservations are accepted for gear, so we strongly recommend bringing your own. Please call 209.372.8344 for more information. 

We require reservations and advanced deposits for all Yosemite backpacking trips.

Reservation Information

Below is a list of items you will need to bring with you for your backpacking trip. Please gather your equipment early so you don’t forget anything.

Cotton clothing should be avoided! Choose wool or synthetic materials like polyester, polypropylene, Capilene, and nylon.

You can bring any of the items you want but remember that you have to carry them yourself. You’ll also need room in your pack for some of the group gear (Mountain Hardwear tent, 9” x 12” bear can, fuel, stove, etc...) so don’t overdo it. Optional items include: backpack rain cover, swimsuit, lighter or matches, small towel, Camp Suds-type biodegradable soap, mosquito head net, lightweight daypack (for trips with layover days), first aid kit, GPS, compass, map, guidebook, camera and film, hiking poles, gaiters, binoculars, fishing tackle and current license, small pocket knife, paper and pen, art supplies, reading material, special food and drink.

For your convenience, the Mountaineering School rents Mountain Hardwear sleeping bags and pads and backpacks that are perfect for your trip. Let us know in advance what you need. If you rent gear from other sources please be sure it is adequate for your trip and in good working order. Call us if you have any questions.

A full payment (100%) deposit is required to book a reservation, except big wall climbs where a 50% deposit is required. If reservation is cancelled at least 14 days or more in advance of the scheduled activity, the full deposit will be refunded. For a cancellation of less than 14 days notice, deposit will be forfeited. For a no-show with no warning, the full deposit will be forfeited.

Activities cancelled by YMS will be fully refunded. There will be no refunds due to weather or snow conditions. Once a climbing outing has started, the maximum refund is one half of that day’s fees. YMS will not accept reservations earlier than one year and one day before any YMS outing.

2-Day Trip - Cathedral Lakes

Join us for a spectacular trip into the Cathedral Range in the high country of Yosemite. We’ll trek along the John Muir Trail before setting up base camp near a pristine alpine lake, and below Cathedral Peak. Exploring the Cathedral range area will reveal hidden landscapes that only backcountry travelers are able to enjoy. A great trip for first time backpackers!

Day 0: Meet guide at Yosemite Mountaineering School located in Curry Village for a pack check. (If not possible meet by trailhead Day 1 for pack check.)

Day 1: Hike into Upper Cathedral Lake from trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows.

Distance- Approximately 5 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,426 ft. Descent- Approximately 434 ft. Elevation Profile- 8,605 to 9,630 ft above sea level.

Day 2: Hike out of the backcountry toward trailhead.

Distance- Approximately 5 miles. Ascent- Approximately 436 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,426 ft. Elevation Profile- 9,630 to 8,600 ft above sea level.

2-Day Trip - Glen Aulin

This trip includes a beautiful hike along the cascading Tuolumne River to the High Sierra Camp, Glen Aulin. This a great trip for exploring one of Yosemite’s glacially carved watersheds.

Day 1: Hike into Glen Aulin from trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows.

Distance- Approximately 6 miles. Ascent- Approximately 570 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,200 ft. Elevation Profile- 8,700 to 7,800 ft above sea level.

Distance- Approximately 6 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,200 ft. Descent- Approximately 570 ft. Elevation Profile- 7,800 to 8,700 ft above sea level.

2-Day Trip - May Lake

A great trip for beginner backpackers. This trip heads into the high country and arrives at May Lake, situated at the base of Mt. Hoffman (the geographical center of the park!). These are two low-mileage leisurely days, so we've added on an option to summit Mt. Hoffman where you get an incredible 360-degree view of Yosemite National Park.

Day 1*: Hike into May Lake from trailhead (about 5 miles west of Tenaya Lake off Tioga Road).

Distance- Approximately 1.5 miles. Ascent- Approximately 492 ft. Descent- Approximately 57 ft. Elevation Profile- 8,885 to 9,367 ft above sea level.

Day 2: A few options to explore the area.

Mt. Hoffman

Distance- Approximately 3 miles round trip. Ascent- Approximately 1,540 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,540 ft. Elevation Profile- 9,367 to 10,758 ft. above sea level.

Tuolumne Peak

Distance- Approximately 7.5 miles round trip. Ascent- Approximately 1,500 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,500 ft. Elevation Profile- 9,367 to 10,856 ft above sea level.

The Bowmaiden

Distance- Approximately 5 miles round trip. Ascent- Approximately 1,200 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,200 ft. Elevation Profile- 9,367 to 10,585 ft above sea level.

Day 3: Hike out of the backcountry toward trailhead.

Distance- Approximately 1.5 miles. Ascent- Approximately 57 ft. Descent- Approximately 492 ft. Elevation Profile- 9,367 to 8,885 ft above sea level.

2-Day Trip - Alder Creek

Our Alder Creek backpacking trip is one of our new group Learn to Backpack trips, and therefore is an excellent trip for brand new backpackers. This is a great trip for the budding naturalist as Alder Creek is a wooded area and is home to various plant, wildflower, and bird species. Enjoy a scenic view at Alder Creek Falls toward the end of the trail as well.

NOTE: Children must still be at least 14 years of age for our group Learn to Backpack trips.

Day 1: Hike into Alder Creek from trailhead off of Highway 41.

Distance- Approximately 4-6 miles depending on where you camp. Ascent- Approximately 1,468 ft. Descent- Approximately 451 ft. Elevation Profile- 4,845 to 5,904 ft above sea level.

Distance- Approximately 4-6 miles depending on where you camp. Ascent- Approximately 451 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,468 ft. Elevation Profile- 5,904 to 4,845 ft above sea level.

2-Day Trip - Chilnualna Falls

Join one of our friendly and experienced Yosemite Mountaineering School guides on this wonderful new Learn to Backpack trip to Chilnualna Falls. This trip explores and highlights a different area of the park, Wawona. Enjoy beautiful views of the cascading waterfalls on this trail. As a Learn to Backpack trip, it is a great choice for beginner backpackers, although it is more strenuous than our Alder Creek and May Lake trips due to elevation gain.

Day 1: Hike into Chilnualna Falls from trailhead in Wawona.

Distance- Approximately 4 miles depending on where you camp. Ascent- Approximately 2,502 ft. Descent- Approximately 644 ft. Elevation Profile- 4,244 to 6,267 ft above sea level.

Distance- Approximately 4 miles depending on where you camp. Ascent- Approximately 644 ft. Descent- Approximately 2,502 ft. Elevation Profile- 6,267 to 4,244 ft above sea level.

3-Day Trip - Vogelsang to Lyell Canyon

Explore the area of Yosemite’s highest in altitude High Sierra Camp, Vogelsang. Vogelsang is a locals’ favorite with views of high alpine lakes and rugged peaks. The trip typically finishes through Lyell Canyon and has options to make the experience easier or more difficult depending on the group’s ability.

Day 1: Hike into Vogelsang from trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows.

Distance- Approximately 7.4 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,688 ft. Descent- Approximately 235 ft. Elevation Profile- 8,675 to 10,189 ft above sea level.

Day 2: A few different options to explore the area.

Vogelsang Peak

Distance- Approximately 4.5 miles round trip. Ascent- Approximately 1,460 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,460 ft. Elevation Profile- 10,140 to 11,470 ft. above sea level.

Lyell Canyon

Distance- Approximately 6.5 miles. Ascent- Approximately 780 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,890 ft. Elevation Profile- 10,610 to 8,900 ft above sea level.

Hanging Basket Lake

Distance- Approximately 3 miles round trip. Ascent- Approximately 600 ft. Descent- Approximately 600 ft. Elevation Profile- 10,170 to 10,713 ft above sea level.

Day 3: A couple of options out depending on your ending point on Day 2.

From Vogelsang

Distance- Approximately 7.4 miles. Ascent- Approximately 235 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,688 ft. Elevation Profile- 10,189 to 8,675 ft above sea level.

From Lyell Canyon

Distance- Approximately 5.7 miles. Ascent- Approximately 269 ft. Descent- Approximately 479 ft. Elevation Profile- 8,933 to 8,675 ft above sea level.

3-Day Trip - Yosemite Valley Rim

Catch a unique perspective on Yosemite Valley in this North Rim adventure. Start up the Yosemite Falls trail and head east on the rim toward North Dome, catching great views of the Valley along the way. This trip is only offered at the start of the season due to heat and shortage of water later in the summer.

Day 1: Hike up to Castle Cliffs by Yosemite Point.

Distance- Approximately 4 miles. Ascent- Approximately 4,600 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,300 ft. Elevation Profile- 4,000 to 7,400 ft above sea level.

Day 2: Hike east to North Dome, set up camp, then hike up to Indian Rock.

Distance- Approximately 5 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,700 ft. Descent - Approximately 1,600 ft. Elevation Profile- 7,000 to 8,500 ft. above sea level.

Day 3: Hike over to Snow Creek trail head then down to Mirror Lake.

Distance- Approximately 9 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,300 ft. Descent- Approximately 4,600 ft. Elevation Profile- 8,200 to 4,000 ft above sea level.

3-Day Trip - Ostrander Lake

Hit the trail with the Yosemite Mountaineering School on this outstanding trip to Ostrander Lake. Ostrander is special place nestled in the pocket of the Sierras out off Glacier Point Road. For day, two enjoy a moderate hike out to Hart Lakes or trek up to Horse Ridge to get your fill of alpine scenery. If you love Ostrander, you can also ski out to it in the winter from Badger Pass Ski Area (if you’re ready for some black diamond backcountry skiing)!

Day 1: Hike into Ostrander Lake area from trailhead off of Glacier Point Road.

Distance- Approximately 6 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,692 ft. Descent- Approximately 120 ft. Elevation Profile- 7,037 to 8,615 ft above sea level.

Day 2: A couple different options to explore the area.

Horse Ridge

Distance- Approximately 4 miles round trip. Ascent- Approximately 1,050 ft. Descent- Approximately 1,050 ft. Elevation Profile- 8,615 to 9,484 ft. above sea level.

Distance- Approximately 3 miles. Ascent- Approximately 800 ft. Descent- Approximately 800 ft. Elevation Profile- 8,615 to 8,936 ft. above sea level.

Day 3: Hike back toward Glacier Point Road via Pohono Meadow.

Distance- Approximately 5-6 miles. Ascent- Approximately 2,047 ft. Descent- Approximately 425 ft. Elevation Profile- 7,038 to 8,662 ft above sea level.

4-Day Trip - Cloud’s Rest to Half Dome

Get to the top of two of the most popular summits in Yosemite, Cloud’s Rest and Half Dome, in this wonderfully strenuous trip. It begins in a beautiful part of Yosemite’s high country, Sunrise Lakes. From there, we summit Cloud’s Rest, standing proud at 9,926 ft in elevation then head over to the iconic Half Dome standing at 8,839 ft. in elevation. Eventually we make our way down to Yosemite Valley where we end our trip.

*This trip is for experienced backpackers/hikers only.

**The entry trailhead and exit trailhead are in different areas of the park.

***Half Dome summits and permits are not a guarantee. Acquiring the permits is likely, but in the instance, we do not get Half Dome permits we will spend a night at beautiful Merced Lake instead.

Transportation is not included in our services. You will need to either book the Tuolumne Hiker’s Shuttle to get to the trailhead for Day 1 or after the trip to retrieve your vehicle.

Day 1: Hike into Sunrise Lakes from the trailhead at Tenaya Lake.

Distance- Approximately 3.5 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,400 ft. Descent- Approximately 220 ft. Elevation Profile- Approximately 8,200 to 9,350 ft above sea level.

Day 2: Summit Cloud’s Rest then hike down to JMT junction.

Distance- Approximately 7.5 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,250 ft. Descent- Approximately 3,150 ft. Elevation Profile- Approximately 7,300 to 9,900 ft. above sea level.

Day 3: Summit Half Dome then hike down to Little Yosemite Valley.

Distance- Approximately 6 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,600 ft. Descent- Approximately 2,600 ft. Elevation Profile- Approximately 6,200 to 8,500 ft above sea level.

Day 4: Hike down into Yosemite Valley to complete trip.

Distance- Approximately 6 miles. Ascent- Approximately 1,000 ft. Descent- Approximately 3,500 ft. Elevation Profile- Approximately 4,000 to 6,200 ft. above sea level.

Custom Trips

With a guided backpacking trip, you'll enjoy seeing the best of Yosemite National Park with the comfort and safety of an experienced guide. While most of the hiking trips are moderately difficult, there are some that are quite physically challenging and recommended only for the most experienced backpackers. Designed around your schedule, interests, and level of expertise, we can create a backpacking vacation of a lifetime.

Call us for more information, ideas, and suggested itineraries at 209.372.8344

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Guided Backpacking Trips

Top-Rated Guided Backpacking Trips in Yosemite, Olympic and Lassen Volcanic National Parks!

Join us for a featured adventure or customize your own Guided Backpacking Trips with your family, friends, or group! Our guided multi-day trips can be tailored to your group’s experience and fitness levels, and can feature any number of icons on your bucket list. Each of the options on our featured tour menu offers an entirely unique experience in different areas of each park, but don’t worry—our staff will help you choose! With trips ranging from 2 to 5 days and easy to strenuous, there are options for every visitor. The best part? We provide top-of-the-line gear and gourmet food (did someone say backcountry breakfast burritos?)!

• #1 Rated Guided Backpacking Trips on TripAdvisor

“We backpacked with a group of 7 other people from ‘Backpacker’s Camp’ to Mae Lake, up to Mt Hoffman, Cloud’s Rest, and finally completed the trip with an amazing last day, summiting Half Dome at sunrise! It. Was. Incredible!! Our guides immediately made us feel comfortable and excited. Their passion for the wilderness, people, and their career as a guide is contagious. If you have the chance to go on a Lasting Adventures trip – please do it!” – TripAdvisor, Sept 2021

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North Coast Backpack Trip

Trip Highlights:

• Coastal Trek
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Difficulty:

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4-Day Joshua Tree Backpacking

• Desert Sunsets
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Rainforests and Alpine Lakes

• Hoh Rainforest
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Glacier Point to Half Dome

• Glacier Point

• The Grand Valley
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Hoh Rainforest and the Blue Glacier

• Blue Glacier
• Pristine Meadows

Sol Duc and the Seven Lakes Basin

• Seven Lakes Basin
• Old-Growth Forests
• Sol Duc Falls

Hidden Yosemite Backpacking Trip

• Untouched Alpine Wilderness
• Incredible Scenery
• Granite Peaks

• Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne
• Granite Domes and Peaks
• Tuolumne Meadows

Yosemite Icons Backpacking

• Yosemite Falls

Amazing Sunsets

• Mount Hoffmann

Alpine Lakes and Summits

• Tenaya Lake

May Lake to Snow Creek

• Classic Backpacking
• Yosemite Valley Views

Yosemite Yoga Retreat

• Certified Yoga Instructors
• Relax and Unwind
• Serene Atmosphere

Founders Fall Adventure

• High Alpine Wilderness
• Meet the Founder
• Fundraising Trip

Tuolumne Meadows to Half Dome

• Granite Peaks and Domes

Cathedral Lakes to Clouds Rest & Half Dome

• Summit Half Dome
• Clouds Rest
• John Muir Trail

The Ozette Coast

• Lake Ozette
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A first-time guide to Yosemite National Park

Jun 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Yosemite is a wonderland of adventures, but don't leave without seeing at least one waterfall © gnohz / Shutterstock

Surrounded by Yosemite ’s waterfalls, cliffs and ageless mountains, you truly feel in nature’s thrall. Are the crowds, camping reservations and hiking permit lotteries – all side-effects of the park’s 4 million annual visitors – a headache? Of course. Are Yosemite’s technicolor meadows and vast, abyssal valleys worth it? Ten times over. 

More than a national park, Yosemite is a milestone in the story of conservation in the United States. The signing of the Yosemite Grant by President Abraham Lincoln in 1864 is one of the earliest examples of land in the US being preserved and safeguarded as a public good, which paved the way for the national parks system. The activism and lyrical writing of John Muir further embedded Yosemite in the public consciousness; he described it as "the grandest of all the special temples of Nature".

If it’s your first time in Yosemite, you might be inspired to wax poetic, too. You might equally be left tongue-tied by the sheer scale of its 1187 sq miles of forests, coursing rivers and granite domes.

Here’s how to get started on your first-ever foray into Yosemite National Park. 

When should I go to Yosemite National Park?

No hyperbole: Yosemite is truly a year-round destination, large and varied enough to keep outdoor-lovers busy even during low season. It’s most popular from spring to fall, with heightened popularity in midsummer. 

Unpredictable snow conditions mean the start of spring hiking season varies by the year. But by May, waterfalls are at their magnificent best. Now’s the time to head for 2425ft Yosemite Falls , ideally hiking the tough 3.4-mile trail to the top, and checking out mighty, multi-cascade Sentinel Falls (1920ft) and Ribbon Fall (1612ft). 

Peak visiting times, including summer, require preparation. Park reservations are essential from July 1 to mid-August, and on weekends and holidays in spring (mid-April to the end of June) and late summer to fall (mid-August to late October). Check the exact date restrictions and book your pass on the park website . If you don’t have a reservation, set your alarm: you’ll need to enter the park before 5am.

Winter is much quieter, with snow-hushed forests and lighter crowds to compensate for some road closures (like up to Glacier Point, usually closed off from November to early June). But crowds assemble in February for the Yosemite Firefall , when Horsetail Falls are bathed in burnished light, transforming into an infernal cascade that tumbles down the face of El Capitan. On clear days, head to the El Capitan Picnic Area toward twilight to see the spectacle. 

How much time should I spend in Yosemite National Park?

You could easily spend a month exploring Yosemite’s trails without tripping over the same boulder twice. But with careful planning you can make the most of a few days – or even 12 hours. 

With just one day, you can hit Yosemite’s epic sights on a driving tour and still have enough time for one or two short hikes or bike rides. Head straight to Yosemite Valley, with a stop at iconic Tunnel View to feel vicarious vertigo as you watch climbers making their way up El Capitan.

Rent a bike through Yosemite’s bike-sharing scheme and pedal part-way to Mirror Lake. Back at your car, drive up to Glacier Point for astounding views of Half Dome and yawning Tenaya Canyon.

If you have two days, earn those views by hiking to Glacier Point along the Four Mile Trail. But in late spring, you should devote your second day to the Vernal & Nevada Falls Trail instead, a day-loop of rainbow-spangled waterfalls.  

A third day gives you enough time to get under the park’s skin. Spend the morning on a half-day hike in Yosemite Valley, maybe the Cook’s Meadow Loop or Yosemite Falls Trail. Then check out Native American baskets at the Yosemite Museum and see the park through a photographer’s lens at the Ansel Adams Gallery .

Got longer? Lucky you: go deeper into the park on overnight hikes. The holy grail is the strenuous 16-mile Half Dome trail, assuming you’re fortunate enough to get a permit. For a tour de force of the park, the Vogelsang Pass Loop (27 miles) gives you exquisite access to the Cathedral Range, in all its granite glory.

Is it easy to get in and around Yosemite National Park?

Yosemite is hugely popular, especially from April to early October, so prepare to join the traffic. It’s possible (and highly recommended) to visit without a car by taking a Yarts bus ; lines travel from Mammoth Lakes east of the park, Sonora and Merced to the west, and from Fresno (via Oakhurst) to the south. Once you’re in the park, efficient free shuttle services ferry travelers between visitor centers and trailheads.

If you’re self-driving between spring and early fall, it’s essential to plan. Not only does that mean booking a reservation and getting up as early as you can, you should also fill your tank well before you arrive: gas prices just outside the park are astronomical. Once you’re in, be prepared for serpentine roads with hair-raising views and full car parks (tip: get to Glacier Point’s parking lot before 9am). If you’re driving an RV, park outside Yosemite and travel in by bus.

Self-driving becomes less stressful in late fall, when reservation restrictions drop. But there’s a different set of considerations between winter and early spring (November to April): the High Sierra’s fickle weather. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires (or carry chains, and know how to put them on).

Top things to do in Yosemite National Park

Get as high as you can! Yosemite is all about epic scale so meet these granite domes eye to eye at lofty viewpoints like Glacier Point or better yet, hiking trails that climb to scenic overlooks. If you didn’t win the Half Dome hiking lottery, then the Sentinel Dome & Taft Point Trail is no consolation prize: near-4000ft cliffs are the spine-tingling conclusion to this 5.1-mile (oneway) hike. 

Don’t depart without seeing a waterfall, especially in late spring or early summer. Bridalveil Fall , a 620ft cascade that billows in the breeze, is one of the most popular; it’s a short stroll from the parking lot (Wawona Road & Southside Drive). But we love the Yosemite Falls loop hike (7.2 miles round-trip), complete with tough inclines and bracing clouds of waterfall mist.

Then there’s Tuolumne Meadows, the High Sierra’s largest sub-alpine meadow, which usually opens sometime in May. It’s a tapestry of sapphire-blue lakes, lush grasslands and (in spring and summer) a profusion of flowers, all laced with long and short trails. For a short but sweet hike, the Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge Trail is an easy 1.5 mile route. There are more substantial hikes too, like the John Muir Trail to Lyell Canyon (8 miles one-way).  

My favorite thing to do in Yosemite National Park

Once I’m giddy from the beauty of Yosemite’s major sights, I love heading onto quieter trails around Wawona. Rambles like the easy Wawona Meadow Loop and the tough but glorious Chilnualna Falls access a dreamy side of the park that many travelers skip. It’s also near Mariposa Grove , and I’m a sucker for gigantic sequoias. Along the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail (2 miles) I like to crane my neck upwards and marvel at oddities like the Clothespin Tree and the California Tunnel Tree…don’t resist, just take the selfie!  

How much money do I need for Yosemite National Park?

Basic costs like entry fees, food and in-park accommodation are comparable to other national parks around the US. Keep costs under control by camping in groups and avoiding last-minute peak season hotels and gas stations close to the park. In late fall, there are accommodation bargains in gateway towns.

• park entry fee per car/person: $35/20
• round-trip bus fare from Oakhurst to Yosemite Valley: $28
• tacos at the Meadow Grill: $10
• tent site within the park: $24-36
• basic double room at Wawona Hotel: $154
• dinner buffet at The Ahwanee Dining Room adult/child: $32/14.50
• Ansel Adams Gallery photography walk: free
• 1hr Glacier Point starry skies program: $20
• double room in Oakhurst: $180-250

Do I need a reservation to enter Yosemite National Park?

If you’re traveling at peak times then yes, you need to reserve your Yosemite trip in advance. This includes every day from July to mid-August, and Saturdays, Sundays and holidays between mid-April and the end of June, and from mid-August to late October. Park authorities implemented the system in an attempt to stem the worsening traffic and the environmental impact of the high visitor numbers. Make reservations on the park website . 

What is the best entrance to Yosemite National Park?

Enter the west side of the park through Arch Rock entrance (Hwy 140) or Big Oak Flat (Hwy 120 W) or arrive from the east at Tioga Pass (Hwy 120 E). If you’re traveling from the south, the South Entrance is just north of Fish Camp town (Hwy 41). The furthest entrance north is at Hetch Hetchy (Hwy 120), just watch out for seasonal road closures.  

What are the best places to stay in Yosemite National Park?

Campgrounds in Yosemite are a glorious way to awaken surrounded by the natural majesty and there are 13 to choose from. Favorites include scenic Upper Pines and ideally located Bridalveil Creek Campground , but every single campsite is in hot demand; the best campsite is the one you successfully book. Note that some camps may be off-limits in and around Yosemite Valley during floods in May and June, increasing the competition for spots. 

You can also stay in nearby towns. Yosemite Bug Resort , 27 miles from Yosemite Valley, has a range of dorm beds, tent cabins and en-suite rooms at a campsite dating to the 1930s. Charming Mariposa town and Oakhurst, with a lineup of chain hotels and motels, are also convenient for day trippers at around one hour’s drive from the park.

How do I reserve a campsite in Yosemite National Park?

Expect to be hitting "refresh" repeatedly on the recreation.gov website. Sites become available one or two weeks ahead of time, typically at 7am PST, so set your alarm and make sure you’re logged in…options disappear in minutes, sometimes seconds! There is high demand for sites right from the start of camping season in April until October. The reservation system eases off between late fall and early spring: campgrounds like Hodgdon Meadow, Wawona and popular Camp 4 turn into first-come, first-served camping grounds. 

How can I visit Yosemite National Park sustainably?

Intensifying wildfires, storms and droughts are taking their toll on Yosemite and its surrounding wilderness. Meanwhile increasing footfall in the park puts Yosemite at risk of soil erosion and other damage. But there are ways to minimize your impact: visit in low season, use buses instead of a car, and if you are driving, go slowly (those Red Bear-Dead Bear signs throughout the park are a reminder!) Food should always be stored in bear canisters to ensure you aren’t tempting native black bears to become dependent on human food. 

You can even orient your entire trip around protecting Yosemite. The park has drop-in volunteer days , usually on Earth Day (April) and in mid-August, or you can join Yosemite Climbing Association’s Facelift project . If you have a month or more, volunteer positions from researchers and campground attendants are advertised on the NPS website .  

How can I avoid the crowds in Yosemite National Park?

Avoid weekends if you can, when crowds are biggest. Try to avoid the worst of the traffic by arriving very early (before 5am) and staying until golden hour (just before twilight): great for photography, and even better for avoiding the exodus from the park before 4pm. 

What should I wear and pack in Yosemite National Park? 

Whether you’re traveling in early spring or late fall, you should pack sunblock and warm layers for your trip to Yosemite National Park. Sunburn happens fast on high-elevation hikes, even outside of peak summer, and sudden cold snaps happen year-round. And trust us, don’t drink water straight from streams and lakes, no matter how sparkling-clean it looks; pack water purification tablets or a Steripen instead. 

This article was first published Feb 17, 2023 and updated Jun 26, 2024.

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Yosemite Backpacking Trips

• Yosemite Hiking Tours Yosemite Backpacking Trips

Our guided backpacking tours take you into the heart of world-renowned wilderness destinations. Enjoy solitude and adventure as you embark on a self-sufficient journey deep into Yosemite!

On our trips you’ll be able to focus on enjoying yourself while we take care of the details. Your guide will outfit you with gear, cook the meals, inform you about the landscapes you’re hiking through, and do everything they can to make your trip an unforgettable one.

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“Wildland Trekking is a wonderful organization that is committed to ensuring a positive experience for each individual. They are well organized, prompt and helpful for all the details that are needed for this type of an adventure. We would definitely use them again for future trips.” – Melanie Sullivan

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MORE ABOUT YOSEMITE BACKPACKING Trips

Why a guided backpacking trip.

Yosemite National Park is a vast wilderness with many, many backcountry hiking options. Every trip requires a backcountry permit, which is obtained 5.5 months in advance via a lottery system. Backpacking trips require significant amounts of gear, and backcountry experience is critical to make your adventure a fun and fulfilling one. Going with a backpacking guide company like Wildland Trekking gives you the opportunity to travel light, show up, have nearly everything taken care of for you, and then embark on a carefully selected itinerary that provides a world-class hiking experience of Yosemite led by an expert guide.

What’s Included

Our guided Yosemite backpacking trips include nearly all your gear, which includes backpack, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, trekking poles, kitchen gear and more. We do ask guests to bring a couple small gear items like a headlamp and water bottles. Trips also include all meals from breakfast the first day through lunch the final day, transportation from the meeting point to the trailhead and back (this varies by trip due to Yosemite transportation logistics .) Of course every tour includes a professional Wildland Trekking wilderness guide to lead your trip, prepare meals, provide interp about Yosemite’s natural and cultural history and more. Finally, the finer details such as Yosemite backpacking permits are included so that our guests can focus on enjoying themselves and leave the tedious work to us.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT Yosemite TRIP

Yosemite has an overwhelming number of backpacking route options, and we offer a dozen trips at Wildland. So how do you pick the right one? Many guests want to do Half Dome because of its iconic nature, so that’s what they think of first. However, Half Dome is a unique experience that may or may not fit what you’re looking for. If being around quite a few people is ok with you, and summiting Half Dome is a top priority, then our Half Dome Backpacking Trip or our Classic Summits Trek will be great choices. If you’d like a longer trip with plenty of solitude and also want to do Half Dome, then our Cathedral Range Trek is perfect for you. If getting away from people and experiencing the silence and beauty of Yosemite’s wilderness is a priority, then a trip into Tuolumne Meadows, or down the Grand Canyon of the Tuoloumne, or Ten Lakes Basin, Wonders of Yosemite, or Mount Conness would be worth looking at. We’re here 7 days a week to help you as well at 800-715-HIKE (4453)!

WHY WILDLAND TREKKING?

Wildland Trekking began in 2005 as a backpacking company. Backpacking is still a major focus, but we also provide other trip styles including  llama treks, basecamp tours, and inn-based tours. At our core, we’re a backcountry guiding company and always will be, and we’re expert at what we do. Our trips are all-inclusive; and our guides are carefully vetted, well-trained, and thoroughly supported with exceptional regional management and logistical teams. We’ve earned #1 spots on 6 national park Trip Advisor pages, and we hold solid 5-star review status at several more.

WHEN SHOULD I START PLANNING MY ADVENTURE?

We recommend beginning to play your trip approximately 4 months beforehand. Because of the limited number of backpacking permits awarded through the lottery system, and the high demand for guided backpacking trips in Yosemite, our trips tend to fill up quickly. Of course, there are often last-minute spots available, so if you didn’t make the 4-month mark don’t worry! There’s still a great chance of getting on a world-class Yosemite adventure.

How Do Yosemite Permits Work?

Yosemite backpacking permits become available 5.5 months in advance. We recommend registering for your trip before that time if possible, but waiting until the trip is confirmed to make your concrete travel arrangements like airfare and hotel rooms. We apply for the permits starting several days before the 5.5 month mark and know pretty quickly whether we were successful. When we’re successful, we immediately confirm the trip and guests are notified. If we are unsuccessful we continue applying each day so we can offer alternative dates. Certain iconic trips like the Half Dome Trek are much more competitive than lesser known trips like our Young Lakes and Mount Conness trip or the Wonders of Yosemite. We very strongly encourage guests who are booking Half Dome or Yosemite’s Classic Summits treks to think about backup itineraries like the two mentioned above. These more obscure trips can be equally or even more rewarding for many guests than the classics.

The Yosemite backpacking season is significantly longer than many mountain destinations because of the elevation differences between Yosemite Valley (home to iconic landmarks like Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls and more) and the high country. Yosemite Valley is at about 4,500′ and the high country starts around 8,500′ and goes up to 13,000′.

Trips in Yosemite Valley – like our Yosemite Valley North Rim backpacking trip – can begin in late April or May. Half Dome and Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne open up in June, and our high country trips are fantastic from July through September. Then, again in the fall, the spring trips are great again while winter sets in in the high country.

How Fit Do I Need to Be to Backpack in Yosemite?

The level of fitness required to backpacking in Yosemite depends on the route or itinerary you’d like to do. For the most part, you can expect moderate to high levels of physical exertion. Yosemite is a mountainous national park, with a low elevation of 2,105 feet and a high elevation of 13,114 feet. That’s a very impressive 11,009 feet of vertical relief! You won’t have to hike that much uphill, you may have to gain some serious elevation. Add the weight of a multi-day backpack on your back (25-45 pounds), and you definitely need to be in good shape.

Backpacking trips range in difficulty from Level 3 to Level 5. We provide descriptions of the physical requirements for each level. Level 3 trips are a good place to start if you’re active and in good health. Level 4 and 5 trips are great to start with if you’re very fit and active, or to work up to by doing multiple tours.

Is Previous Backpacking Experience Required?

No. Our trips are designed for people who want to have a memorable backcountry experience in some of the world’s most amazing national parks and wilderness areas, whether they have backpacked before or not. It is important to be physically active and in good health, but the level of experience of our guests ranges from completely new to backpacking  to very experienced and everything in between.

Logistical Considerations

• Gear : we provide almost everything. We do ask that you provide a headlamp and water bottles. Some guests choose to bring their own sleeping bags.
• Clothing : when you register, we provide you with a packing list that details the required clothing. An abbreviated list includes hiking shoes or boots , hiking socks, long underwear, trekking pants/shorts, fleece or wool layers, an insulated jacket, rain gear, warm hat and gloves, sun hat and more.
• Vehicle : most of our Yosemite backpacking guests have a vehicle and must leave it somewhere during the trip. These tours rendezvous at Curry Village, and you can leave your vehicle there.
• Luggage : the best places to leave your luggage while on the tour is either in your vehicle or at your pre-trip or post-trip hotel.

yosemite visitor information

Tips for visiting yosemite.

• VISITING YOSEMITE : Learn about Yosemite’s top highlights, best hikes, best tours, visiting in winter and a lot more!
• ULTIMATE GUIDE TO YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK : This is a blog post written by Wildland staff to help visitors make the most of their visit to Yosemite.
• WHEN TO VISIT YOSEMITE : Get information on every month of the year and find out which one will work best for you.
• 10 MUST SEE YOSEMITE HIGHLIGHTS : There are 10 highlights you can’t miss in Yosemite – see them here.
• TOP YOSEMITE TOURS : Learn about the best tours to do, including hikes, backpacking trips, helicopter tours, climbing and more.
• BEST YOSEMITE HIKES : Check out our list of recommended hikes to do in Yosemite.
• TOP WINTER HIKES IN YOSEMITE : Winter is a spectacular but unique season – learn the best hikes to do in the snowy months.
• WHAT TO SEE IN YOSEMITE IN ONE DAY : Find out everything you need to know to make the most one day in this national park.
• HOW TO HIKE HALF DOME : Get professional advice on hiking to the top of California’s most famous summit – Half Dome!
• YOSEMITE BACKPACKING PERMITS : Learn about the backpacking permit process which allows backcountry camping.

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16 Beginner Backpacking Trips You Will Want to Take

W ho wants a vacation filled with the same things you do every day? For a true break in your routine that teaches you new skills and reacquaints you with what it means to be human, try a backpacking excursion! We will cover where should you go, and what do you need to know for beginner backpacking trips that will become great memories.

Backpacking hones crucial survival skills, such as how to set fires in damp environments, treat minor injuries and find your way without GPS.

It also gets you into the great outdoors — that magical realm that exists beyond your office door. It’s full of wonders, such as beautiful flowers and fascinating creatures, and holds all sorts of juicy health benefits.

Why plan a vacation that involves a mild spin on your daily activities? Get into the wild with our picks for the best beginner backpacking trips. These are the best locations for getting outside and learn something new about yourself and your world.

Backpacking, Defined

It may surprise you to learn that backpacking simply refers to the act of traveling from place to place while carrying your belongings on your back. Although most people visualize heading into the wild, it’s the mode of transportation, not the destination, that defines the practice.

Backpacking differs from camping in that you trek in and out with everything you need on your back . There’s no driving to the campsite and hooking up to power or even dragging your cooler from the car to the fire pit. You’ll carry your shelter, food and necessary supplies, including first aid, maps and equipment, in your back frame.

Beginner Backpacking Trips- Our Favorite Destinations

Now comes the fun part — planning your destination. There’s something for everyone right here in the United States, including newbies. Here are 16 of the hottest destinations for beginner backpacking trips that will test your mettle but still provide adequate access to services to make you feel comfortably safe.

1. The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail stretches for more than 2,000 miles from Maine to Georgia. Few backpackers traverse the entire length, but this scenic system that passes through multiple states offers ample smaller excursions for beginners. Best of all, it’s readily accessible by nearly anyone on the East Coast with adequate bus fare and Uber money.

For example, Mt. Marshall Loop is a relatively short hike with great views, perfect for beginner backpackers. The trail is only 13.8 miles , including a 15-20-minute viewpoint detour that’s great for kiddos who love scaling giant boulders.

What makes it sparkle is its proximity to several paid campgrounds, including the Shenandoah Valley Campground, so those who don’t want to stay in the big woods can easily trek closer to civilization to bed down for the night.

Other worthwhile backpacking treks off the Appalachian trail include:

• McAfee Knob , Catawba, Virginia
• Springer Mountain , Georgia
• Mt. Cammerer, North Carolina
• Little Rock Pond via Long Trail , Vermont
• Bald Pate Mountain and Table Rock , Maine

2. The Pacific Crest Trail

The beloved “PCT,” as it’s known in hiking parlance, suffered quite the wallop in 2023, with record snowfall surpassing 50 feet in some areas. Although parts of this trail are not for the faint of heart, others are perfect for beginner backpackers. The trail winds through three states and five distinct sections:

• Southern California
• Central California
• Northern California

Each is unique in topography and climate, so spend time researching where you plan to go. What are some of the best two- to three-day backpacking trips along the PCT? Try these excursions:

• Chewing Gum Lake: This 4.5-mile excursion is north of Yosemite and south of Tahoe.
• Bear Lake: This seven-mile trek features a gentle 500-foot elevation gain.
• Chain Lake: The Box Springs Trailhead 4.4 miler has a more severe 864-foot elevation gain.

These are wise choices for beginner hikers since each can be done in a single day. If you’re a seasoned backpacker, here are a pair of challenging hikes in the area:

• Alder Creek Falls: This trek is ideal for heartier beginner backpackers, featuring about 8.2 miles and a 1,000-foot elevation gain.
• Waterfall Camp in the Desolation Wilderness: This is another tough one that ends in a gorgeous setting after 10.5 miles and a 1,522-foot elevation gain.

3. The Continental Divide

The Continental Divide rounds out the backpacking world’s illustrious triple crown — something only a hair over 500 people have ever done. It seems spending months in the great outdoors, free from other obligations, isn’t realistic for most people.

However, you can get your fix in a more reasonable time frame with one of these two- to three-day backpacking trips along the Continental Divide, spanning over 3,100 miles across five states. Explore one of the following:

• Gooseberry Springs Trail, New Mexico: Hike up Mt. Taylor, a sacred mountain among the Navajo.
• Bear Lake, Colorado: Multiple sites abound around this lake and trail system. Bring your bear spray.
• Big Meadow and Granite Falls, Colorado: This hike is great for viewing elk, moose and deer.
• Bridger Pass Road North, Wyoming: Take an optional side trip to the Teton Reservoir off this six-mile trek.
• Lemhi Pass toward Goldstone Pass, Montana: Follow the footsteps of Lewis and Clark on this variable-length trek.

4. Yellowstone National Park

National parks sparkle for beginner backpackers because they offer various campsites and accommodations for backpackers. For example, Yellowstone National Park has ample dispersed campsites around Yellowstone Lake.

Be mindful of seasonal limitations, considering many sites close from October 15 through April due to weather conditions. Once mid-October arrives, you’ll find dispersed camping with no amenities.

Yellowstone Lake is among the best places for beginner backpackers in this extreme wilderness, and you should visit during the summer months. Summer highs typically hit the mid-70s, providing a comfortable hike through an American landmark.

The highest temperatures you can expect come from the Norris Geyser Basin, reaching 706 degrees Fahrenheit in its underground water.

Read our complete guide to all the amazing things to do in Yellowstone National Park with kids .

5. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is another national park with excellent treks for beginner backpackers. Many adventures depart from Tuolumne Meadows, a magical sight in the evening when sunset casts the fields in a mystical golden glow.

Early spring and summer are the peak times for viewing waterfalls, but make early reservations. The park charges a $35 entrance fee, which allows you to park for seven days and backpack to your heart’s delight, as long as you stay away from wild critters and carry bear spray, just in case.

Here are our favorite things to do in Yosemite with kids .

6. Joshua Tree National Park

If you appreciate sunshine more than snow and ice, Joshua Tree National Park is your go-to backpacking destination. You’ll want to avoid the hottest months of June, July and August, but spring and autumn in the desert is a delight, and nighttime temps stay above freezing — although the thin atmosphere makes them feel mighty cold.

The best beginner’s backpacking trek here is the Boy Scout Trail , which takes you through the Wonderland of Rocks . While it’s tempting to let little boulderers climb to their hearts’ content, stay close to the trail to avoid getting lost. The Big Pine Trail is another trek of equivalent length that is a favorite among birders.

Check out our great guide to exploring Joshua Tree with kids .

7. Zion National Park

You could spend a summer in Utah visiting five national parks, but if you only have time for one, set your beginner backpacker soles on the dirt at Zion National Park.

The Angel’s Landing, West Rim and Telephone Loop is perhaps the most famous, traversing 15.5 miles over a two- or three-day span. Coalpits Wash at 7.2 miles is a great one if you have less time.

Zion is one of those all-season parks that is fun to visit any time of year. Check our guide to visiting Zion in winter and our full guide to things to do in Zion with kids .

8. Grand Teton National Park

The Grand Tetons transport you to a landscape that looks like it should be in Switzerland, right here in the United States. One of the best trails is undoubtedly the Cascade Canyon to Lake Solitude route, a 16-mile round-trip path featuring over 2,500 feet of elevation gain — spread it out over three days to make it enjoyable. You’ll find ample campsites just south of the lake, and bear spray is a must.

As you might have suspected, we have a geat guide on things to do in Grand Teton National Park as well!

9. The Grand Canyon

Upon arriving at the Grand Canyon, you’ll see countless signs reminding you not to attempt to hike to the river and back in one day. How else, though, to see wonders like Havasu Falls , located on the Havasupai reservation? The only way is to backpack — and make reservations well in advance.

Additionally, bring plenty of hydration. While the Colorado River is pure enough to drink from in parts, there’s not a drop to be found before reaching the Village eight miles in.

If you want to backpack inside the park, definitely make reservations for the Bright Angel Campground well in advance and secure your backcountry permit as well. The hike back up from the canyon bottom is only for advanced hikers and best for teens and tweens.

We have great guides to the Grand Canyon South Rim as well as the Grand Canyon North Rim. Both are quite distinct so I suggest trying to visit each of them over time but keep in mind that they are hours apart from each other by road.

10. Arches National Park

Your tour of the Southwest heads north to Utah once more to Arches National Park. This location is ideal for beginner backpackers as the uniquely delicate sandstone formations mean there are only four designated spots for backcountry camping.

You must carry ample water since few, if any, natural sources exist. However, the hikes to many of the most photographic spots are between half a mile and a mile and a half in length, letting you capture multiple frame-worthy pictures.

These are our favorite things to do in Arches National Park with kids .

11. Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef is the least visited of Utah’s five national parks, making it perfect for people who relish solitude. It’s also among your cheapest options — although you’ll need a permit for backcountry camping, you can pick one up for free.

Spring Canyon and Upper Muley Twist Canyon are perfect overnight treks for beginner backpackers , while more remote locations like Halls Creek Narrows require nearly a week.

Here is our full guide to visiting Capitol Reef National Park with kids .

12. Acadia National Park

Head to the northeastern wilds of Maine at Acadia National Park for a completely different landscape. Like all such locations, it offers multiple options for backpackers.

The Mountain Carriage Loop offers inland challenges, while the easy Ocean Path Trail is perfect for families with young kids. Bernard Mountain tempts those who appreciate solitude.

Here are the best things to do in Acadia National Park with your family.

13. Sequoia National Park

Trees and mountains are taller in the west, and a visit to Sequoia National Park makes giant redwoods your nighttime canopy. Although many of the most popular routes in this forest span multiple days, Redwood Canyon is home to the largest sequoia grove in the world and is a great beginner backpacking destination.

The Hart Tree and Fallen Goliath Loop is 6.5 miles in length. It crosses Redwood Creek, past Hart Meadow, and through Tunnel Tree until reaching Hart Tree, the largest sequoia in the grove.

Mineral King is Sequoia National Park’s High Sierra destination, with several overnight hikes originating from this area. Camping is allowed as soon as 2.5 miles in on a few of the trails and all the scenery in this part of the park is spectacular.

It’s possible to do the Pear Lake as an out-and-back overnight or a three-day trek. You’ll traverse 11.9 miles and gain 3,080 feet in elevation, so it pays to hit the cardio extra hard at the gym in the weeks before your adventure.

Here are our favorite day hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks .

14. Ancient Lakes, Washington

Some destinations have a unique backpacking vibe you have to experience. Ancient Lakes, Washington is one such spot.

Although the entire Ancient Lake Loop spans 12 miles , you can take numerous shorter treks and camp at any of the established sites around the lakes. Here, established means there’s a fire ring, so don’t expect toilets or running water — it’s primitive.

15. Verde Valley, Arizona

Scores of tourists flock to Sedona, the Verde Valley’s most well-known spiritual mecca, but what about the folks who come for the great outdoors? Although there’s no dispersed camping within the city limits, travel to the heart of town and take Schnebly Hill Road to the parking area before the rough stuff for the Jeep tours begins.

From there, trek the four-mile Munds Wagon Trail for some of the most breathtaking red rock scenery imaginable. Continue past the Cow Pies and ascend to the Coconino Plateau, where you can enjoy dispersed camping galore amid the elk, black bear and occasional Mexican gray wolf.

16. Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota

The Superior Hiking Trail spans over 300 miles along Lake Superior’s north shore. While there are multiple designated campsites, you must stay within their confines and respect private property rights.

Bring extra spray in May, as ticks and mosquitoes emerge in droves, although late summer and early fall are glorious times to visit. It may be the best place to get outdoors in July while still beating the heat.

What Supplies Do You Need for a Backpacking Trip?

The supplies you need for a beginner backpacking trip fall into distinct categories and groups. Here’s what you should consider for each one:

• Shelter: The smaller the tent, the better for preserving body warmth. Seek a model you can set up with your trekking poles to save space, and consider adding a ground cover for added protection against the cold.
• Sleeping arrangements: While a bivvy bag will do in a pinch, the right sack for your trek’s climate preserves comfort.
• Navigation equipment: A map and compass are musts, as cellphones and smartwatches don’t always work in the wild. A satellite system like Garmin is helpful if you can afford it.
• First aid: Include prescriptions you take regularly.
• Clothing: Extra underwear and socks are musts, while the rest depends on the destination.
• Food: Ensure you get at least 2,500 calories daily.
• Water: Water weighs over 8 pounds per gallon , so invest in a bladder for your backpack and purification tools like a Lifestraw and tablets.
• Tools: Bear spray is a must in some areas. Additionally, a knife, multitool, paracord, sheet of plastic (for making solar stills in desert areas), headlamp, flashlight, power banks and charging cords are helpful.

Pro-tip: Your phone can also serve as evening entertainment. Download a few podcasts, including some scary campfire tales — the latter only if you dare.

What Should You Wear on Your Backpacking Trip?

Dressing for your beginner backpacking trip depends in large part on your destination. A September trip to Yellowstone, where nighttime temperatures may plunge below freezing, is quite different from a similar excursion in the Florida Everglades.

That said, you can’t go wrong if you dress in layers. The basic rule is this:

• Your first layer should wick sweat away from your body and consist of a material like silk, merino wool or a synthetic — not cotton.
• Your second layer is where you pile on the insulation with plenty of flannel and fleece.
• Your third layer is water- and wind-proofing and protects you from the elements, like a thin vinyl jacket over a sweatshirt.

However, you can take some liberties. For example, some folks like a heavy vest that insulates their vital organs but prefer to keep their extremities relatively free. A lightweight pair of leggings under denim shorts protects your lower half on chilly mornings and readily tucks away once the sun rises high enough in the sky.

Remember, you must also protect your extremities. Unless you head somewhere where nighttime temperatures are guaranteed to stay above 60 degrees, pack a hat, gloves, thick socks and possibly a balaclava in truly frigid temps.

Jack Shaw  is a Senior Outdoors Writer for Modded Magazine. Driven by his passion for writing, Jack loves to traverse the wilderness, travel and explore the unknown. He has over six years of experience writing professionally and loves engaging in new projects. His works have been published in The Travel Magazine, EcoHotels, Duluth Pack and more.

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How to spend ONE day in Yosemite National Park

Only have one day in Yosemite National Park? We’re sharing the perfect one day itinerary for first-timers! Yosemite National Park is world renowned for its raging waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and domes, serene meadows, stunning hikes, and scenic drives. It’s easily one of the best National Parks in the US ! And if you only have one day to experience the park’s magic, we’ve gotcha covered! While there are many ways you can spend one day in Yosemite National Park, we’re sharing what we think is the perfect one day itinerary for first-timers, based on our experience visiting the park multiple times!

Check out all of our Yosemite National Park resources

• The 33+ BEST things to do in Yosemite National Park
• Where to stay in Yosemite National Park
• The PERFECT 2 Day Yosemite National Park itinerary
• The Ultimate Yosemite National Park itinerary: Options for 1-6 days!
• The Best hikes in Yosemite National Park (coming soon!)
• The Best Day Hike in Yosemite: Four Mile, Panorama, & Mist Trail  
• See more California National Park guides

How many days do you need in Yosemite?

Yosemite National Park encompasses 1,200 square miles and is split up into 5 major areas: Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, Wawona and Mariposa Grove, Hetch Hetchy, and Tioga Road. And one thing that we didn’t realize before our first visit is that depending on where you stay and what you want to see, it can take quite a bit of time to get around. Because of this, if you want to experience the entire park (or at least all areas), you will need around 5 or 6 days . However, it is possible to see the most iconic sights in just one day in Yosemite National Park! During our first trip to the park we spent 1.5 days in Yosemite and while it definitely wasn’t enough time, it gave us a taste of what this incredible park has to offer. It’s always good to have a reason to come back, right?

About this one day in Yosemite National Park itinerary

With one day in Yosemite National Park we suggest sticking solely to Yosemite Valley, plus popping up to Glacier Point, to see the valley from above. This will be a busy day, but will enable you to see the park’s most famous features.  In this one day Yosemite National Park itinerary we’re including a variety of ways to spend your day, including ways to make it easier (or more challenging).

To learn more about Yosemite National Park, including how to get there, how to get around, when to visit, and more, read this guide . And for more itinerary options, check out our additional Yosemite National Park itineraries , with options for 1-6 days!

One day in Yosemite National Park itinerary

Watch the sun rise at Tunnel View

In our opinion, one of the best views to start with at Yosemite is Tunnel View . When you Google the park, it’s likely one of the first images you’ll see. And it’s the desktop background or screensaver of probably thousands of people’s computers! This was our first view of the park and we’ll never forget the feeling of popping out of the tunnel and seeing the valley for the first time! 

Hike the Mist Trail 

After two visits to the park and hiking many trails, one of our favorite hikes in the park is the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls ! It is a pretty challenging hike at 6.4 miles and 2,208 feet of gain.  At many times on the trail you’ll feel like you’re on nature’s stairmaster. But it’s all worth it because you’ll experience two epic waterfalls and a section of the trail that gives it its name – the mist! As you’re climbing next to Vernal Falls you’ll be blasted with mist and it makes for a refreshing and exhilarating experience.  We recommend packing a picnic lunch for this hike. If the entire hike is too difficult for you, you can either just go to the top of Vernal Falls or hike the Bridalveil Fall Trail instead.

A+K Tip: The parking lot fills up early for the Mist Trail and if it’s full, you’ll have to take a shuttle. We suggest arriving at sunrise for this hike, as after 9 AM, it turns into a bit of a conga line.

Explore the valley

After hiking the Mist Trail, we recommend spending the afternoon checking out the valley floor. There’s lots to see and most of it can be explored by foot or bike!

Depending on how much time you have, check out some of these viewpoints and short walks:

• Walk the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail to see Yosemite Falls. This is a must see! And since it’s paved, dogs can hike it as well.
• Check out the Swinging Bridge . This idyllic bridge passes over the Merced River with views of Yosemite Falls. 
• At Sentinel Beach , you’ll be surrounded by towering cliff faces including Sentinel Rock. This is a great spot for a picnic lunch! 
• Grab a treat at the Village Store . They have cold drinks, snacks, and our favorite…pints of ice cream!
• Check out one of the most impressive climbing walls in the world at El Capitan Meadows . If you have binoculars, you’ll easily be able to see climbers on the wall. And if you can, watch Free Solo before you visit the park to truly appreciate it. You will want to drive to this spot and there is lots of roadside parking. To protect the meadow, please only enter the meadow where the fence is open and there are already established paths.
• Valley View is another gorgeous, quick viewpoint of the Yosemite Valley. You will want to drive to this spot as well!

Sunset at Glacier Point

To complete an epic day in Yosemite National Park, head over to Glacier Point for sunset. While the sun doesn’t set in view here, you get an amazing alpenglow on Half Dome. To view the actual sunset, hike to Taft Point or Sentinel Dome (or both !) instead (if you still have some energy left). Just make sure to swing by Glacier Point beforehand, it’s our favorite view! Keep in mind this area is only open in the summer and takes about an hour to drive to from Yosemite Valley. 

Up for a challenge? Spend the day hiking the Four Mile Trail, Panorama Trail, and Mist Trail instead! This hike will take you up to the top of Glacier Point, along the top of the valley, and down the Mist Trail. In our opinion, it’s the BEST day hike in Yosemite. But it will take all day and is very intense!

Have more time in Yosemite National Park?

If you have more than 1 day in Yosemite National Park, we’ve gotcha covered! We have a 2 day itinerary , plus itineraries for 3-6 days , which will enable you to experience more regions of the park.

Where to stay for this one day in Yosemite National Park itinerary

The most ideal place to stay for this one day in Yosemite National Park itinerary is in Yosemite Valley itself. The valley has campgrounds, a lodge, cabins, and canvas tents. However, it can be VERY hard to secure these spots and many sell out 6 months-1 year in advance. So if you cannot secure in-park lodging, you will need to choose from one of the neighboring communities and towns. We run through all of the options in this guide , but we think El Portal, Oakhurst, Fish Camp, or Mariposa will be the best options for this itinerary. Just be prepared to drive a bit!

Tips for your one day in Yosemite National Park

Be aware of reservations

Since the park is so popular, you’ll need to get a reservation to enter the park between 5 AM and 4 PM on certain days between April 13-October 27, 2024. This reservation costs $2 on top of your entry pass.  However, there are some exceptions to these reservations. If you have an in-park camping, lodging, or vacation reservation, Half Dome permit, or wilderness permit you do not need this reservation. Also, if you’re visiting with a tour or by regional transit, you do not need a reservation.  Reservations do sell out, so buy them as soon as possible. If you do not get a reservation, you can enter the park before 5 AM or after 4 PM without one.

Follow Leave No Trace principles

Before embarking on your Yosemite adventure, please review the Leave No Trace principles to ensure you leave every place better than you found it, so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for many years to come! 

Many areas and trails close in the winter

While Yosemite Valley, Mariposa Grove (by foot only in the winter), and Hetch Hetchy are open year round, some other parts of the park like Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road will close in the winter. Some roads both in and outside the park may require snow chains during the winter as well. You can see all current conditions for the park here .

Dogs are NOT allowed everywhere

If you’re bringing your pet with you to the park, there isn’t a ton for them to do, but there are some options.  Pets are allowed in developed areas, on fully paved roads, paved overlooks, sidewalks, and bike paths, unless there is a “no dogs” sign, and in all campgrounds except walk-in campgrounds. They can also hike on a couple trails, but must be on a 6 foot leash.

• Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
• Cook’s Meadow Loop
• Paved pathway to Mirror Lake
• Tuolumne Grove Trail (only on paved parts)
• Wawona Meadow Loop Trail

Curious what we do with Kona when she cannot join us on a hike? Read this guide about how we travel full time with a dog.

Download offline maps

In many areas of the park there is little to no cell service. We recommend downloading Google Maps for offline use . You’ll want to have the area of the park downloaded so that you can get between places, even if you don’t have cell service. While the park has good signage, there are some kind of confusing one way roads, so it’s nice to have Google Maps to direct you. We also suggest downloading offline AllTrails maps so that you can navigate on hikes even without cell service.

Want to get 30% off an AllTrails+ membership ? Use our code aplusk30 (you must redeem this code on the website, not the app)! We use AllTrails+ on every single hike and it is the most helpful hiking tool out there! Some of the features we love are offline maps (so we can navigate even without cell service), wrong-turn alerts, and its 3D maps feature, so we can get a feel for trails before we hike.

Traffic and parking

Our biggest tip to avoid overcrowding, traffic, and congested trails is to get into the park as early as possible, preferably, just after sunrise, but ideally, no later than 9 AM. After that there will likely be long delays at the entrance, traffic congestion on the roads, difficult parking, and busy trails and overlooks. And to make the most of your one day in Yosemite National Park, we suggest parking in one spot and either biking , taking the free shuttle , or walking around the valley for the day.

While there are plenty of toilets around the park, not all trailheads and parking lots have bathrooms. For example, Tunnel View, a popular viewpoint, does not have toilets. Other hikes, like the Mist Trail, do not have one directly at the trailhead, but rather a short walk away. Make sure to plan ahead!

Be careful in and around water

The rivers in Yosemite can be very swift and every year, people die from being washed over waterfalls or swept down rivers in the park. If you choose to get in or near the water, make sure it is extremely calm.

Respect wildlife & be bear aware

Yosemite is home to a wide variety of animals, including black bears. Make sure you are bear aware while hiking (bear spray is NOT allowed), know what to do if you see one, plus practice proper food storage . When bears get access to human food they often get aggressive. This can lead to the bear being killed in order to protect humans.  Even for less threatening animals, like deer and squirrels, PLEASE do not approach, pet, or feed them. And make sure to drive the speed limit while in the park! Animals can dart out into the road quickly and unfortunately many bears and deer are killed yearly from cars. 

Save this one day in Yosemite National Park itinerary!

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‘Sight of a lifetime’: Yosemite's waterfalls flow hard from historic snowfall, bringing crowds

With a thunderous roar, it sounds like a plane taking off or part of a cliff crashing down. 

It’s actually Bridalveil Fall , one of the most popular attractions and likely the first waterfall people will encounter in Yosemite National Park. 

Standing under the 620-foot-tall waterfall is a chilly but memorable experience. Large flumes of mist blow around me. I pull my jacket tighter since it’s notably colder as I get closer. Bridalveil Creek gushes below. 

Named after how it resembles a bride’s wispy veil when windswept, Bridalveil Falls flows year-round. But this spring and summer, it’s been unusually powerful. Two years ago during this time of year, the falls was about a quarter of the current size, said Bob Copestake, my tour guide with Yosemite 360 Tours by Tenaya . 

Peak time for the waterfalls is mid-May, according to the NPS. By early July, many of the waterfalls dissipate. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Not this year. After record-breaking snowfall in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains this past winter, snow melt is causing Yosemite’s waterfalls and rivers to flow strongly into the summer – even creating spontaneous waterfalls throughout the park. The spectacle is drawing in large summer crowds, creating long delays at the park.  

“What we are noticing is the volume of water that’s coming down right now is not normal,” said Cory Goehring, lead naturalist for the Yosemite Conservancy. 

The park had an “unreasonably cool June,” Goehring said, meaning that there’s still a good amount of snowpack left to melt. In early June, the snow conditions at elevations of 8,000 feet and up were noted to be similar to conditions typically seen in early April, according to NPS. 

“I’ve never seen the water like this, I’ve never seen the water flowing like white water rapids,” said Copestake, who has been regularly visiting the park since 1979. “I think it’s the sight of a lifetime for many of us.” 

More: America's least-visited national parks: Perfect for the nature lover who hates crowds

What should park visitors expect to see? 

Park visitors will be in awe of the park’s well-known waterfalls that are still flowing with gusto. Among them: Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, Sentinel Falls, Ribbon Falls and Royal Arch Cascade. 

During my full day exploring the Yosemite Valley, I easily spot around six waterfalls, with at least a couple being unnamed. We pass by El Capitan, the famous vertical rock formation that many climbers dream of scaling, and spot Ribbon Fall – the longest single-drop waterfall in the country. By late June, this waterfall tends to be gone, but it’s still going strong, according to Goehring. 

With July around the corner, temperatures in the park are starting to rise, causing more snow to melt.

‘Dangerous’ water

Merced River is popular among swimmers and boaters during the summer, but this year it’s “at or near flood stage level” and closed to all watercraft and swimmers.

“We’re coming up on historically one of the busiest days of the year for Yosemite: the July 4 weekend,” Goehring said. “It’s going to be hot, people are going to want to get in the river. We recommend that you don't even go near the water to wash your hands.”

“It’s really fast and it’s from snow and ice melting so it’s really cold,” he added. 

On June 1, snowpack in the Merced River basin was 346% of the average for this time of year, according to NPS. 

How crowded is the park right now?

This is the first summer since 2020 that reservations are not required to enter the park. The park has seen a large number of crowds, especially since many people are hoping to witness the waterfalls in action.

“Be prepared for multi-hour delays at park entrances and traffic congestion, especially in Yosemite Valley,” the NPS website said. 

More: If you can't make it to a national park, your mind can still wander there with this app

“You don’t come to a national park to sit in traffic,” Copestake said. “That has changed this year.” 

My first day in the park – and first time ever in Yosemite – is onboard a yellow shuttle with the Yosemite Summer Tour. The all-day excursion takes you to the Yosemite Valley highlights, including Yosemite Falls and Valley View. We do end up sitting in traffic for 30 minutes at a time but are able to see more because we’re in a tour bus and most personal vehicles are redirected elsewhere. 

On Sunday, I venture into the park on my own. I’m staying right outside the park at Tenaya Lodge, about a five-minute drive away. I reach the park right before 8 a.m. and still end up sitting in 45 minutes of traffic just to reach the park’s South Entrance gates. Albeit, it is a summer weekend so I can’t blame anyone but myself.  

Once inside the park, parking lots for popular locations such as Curry Village and Yosemite Village are already full – and it’s just 9 a.m. I end up exploring Wawona , a less crowded southern part of Yosemite.

“I’m so excited people are loving the outdoors and experiencing our national parks but it’s definitely time to think about how to plan your visit to have the best experience,” said Goehring.

Thankfully, when I'm not at the park, I can escape the crowds back at Tenaya Lodge , located in the equally beautiful Sierra National Forest. Tenaya offers free mountain bike rentals, which I ride over to Tenaya Falls, the only falls visit on my trip where there's only three other people there. At night, I join the lodge's nighttime flashlight hike to learn more about the plants and animals of the area, like the ponderosas and different types of pine trees that I also spot in the park.

Are there any road closures from the water flow?

Yes, there are some road closures from the snow pack as of June 29:

• Tioga Road with no anticipated opening date
• Glacier Point Road will open July 1 from 6 am through July 4 at 10 pm, July 8 from 6 am through July 9 at 10 pm, then every day starting July 15 with 30-minute delays

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected]

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Backpacker’s Favorite July 4th Gear Sales

Check out these editor-approved bargains on everything from lightweight tents to sturdy trekking poles..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

If you’re on the hunt for backpacking gear, the Fourth of July is one of few windows during the warmer months when you can find steep discounts. To help you avoid lighting money on fire this summer, we’ve hand-picked 10 pieces of Backpacker -approved gear on sale over Independence Day, ranging from tents to puffies. Word of the wise from a sale-weary gear nerd: the deeper the discount, the quicker they go.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside.  Learn more .

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 for $318 ( $530 )

Shaving weight often means sacrificing comfort. Not with the spacious Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2. This three-season, two-person backpacking tent has a packaged weight of just over three pounds, meaning it’s light enough that it goes toe-to-toe with much more cramped competitors. Big Agnes kept weight low by using lightweight ripstop nylon, polyester mesh, and anodized aluminum poles while designing a cavernous interior and vestibules that convert into airflow-enhancing awnings. Even better? The backpacking tent is available for 40 percent off through the Fourth of July.

GSI Outdoors Halulite Boiler Pot 1.1 Liters for $30 ( $40 )

Titanium cookware is the move if your only goals are saving weight and boiling water. But if you don’t like to baby your backpacking kitchen gear—and occasionally whip up camp cuisine that isn’t dehydrated—then a durable, versatile aluminum pot like this one from GSI is a smart play. Currently on sale for 25 percent off at REI, the 1.1-liter Halulite Boiler is crafted from strong and easy-to-clean hard-anodized aluminum. It also sports a folding handle and accommodates 220g and 110g isobutane fuel canisters for efficient on-trail storage.

Packtowl Personal Towel for $28 ( $50 )

If you’re less concerned with FKTs and more interested in cannonballing off cliffs into every swimming hole you stumble across, a tiny towel can be a welcome addition to your kit. We’re big fans of Packtowl’s Personal Towels—they’re lightweight, absorbent, and available in multiple sizes, ranging from extremely compact hand towels to nap-friendly beach towels (we lean toward the former for backpacking, but you do you).

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite NXT Ultralight Sleeping Pad for $174 ( $210 )

One of the lightest, most popular sleeping pads on the market is on sale for 17 percent off. Therm-a-Rest’s NeoAir XLite NXT’s three-inch-thick baffles offer backpackers noteworthy support, especially relative to the 13-ounce weight (size regular) and compact packed volume (about the size of a celebratory post-trek burrito). Warmth is also a reason Backpacker testers love this Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad —it has an R-Value of 4.5, offering ample insulation for shoulder season and even moderate winter use.

Outdoor Research Foray II for $169 ( $225 )

The Outdoor Research’s Foray II is a perennial top pick in our backpacking shells category. This affordable, versatile, tester-approved rain jacket is now on sale for 25 percent off at Backcountry. Not only is the rain jacket crafted from a tough, breathable, lightweight, and impressively waterproof Gore-Tex Paclite fabric, but it also sports massive hip-to-pit zips that allow hikers to convert the shell into ultra-breathable, poncho-style alpine armor.

Patagonia Nano Puff Hooded Insulated Jacket Women’s for $188 ( $289 )

The Nano Puff Hooded Insulated Jacket is a Patagonia cult-classic and staple in many an outdoor enthusiasts’ wardrobe. The durable, recycled ripstop fabric is treated with a PFC-free DWR coating for moderate weather resistance, and it’s stuffed with toasty, midweight, synthetic, post-consumer-recycled Primaloft insulation. The resulting jacket is warm enough for winter use but light enough to pack on summer hikes as a foul weather insurance policy. It’s currently available at bargain prices at Backcountry.

Sidio Crates for $24-80

If you ever feel like a member of Search and Rescue hunting for headlamps, pocket knives, and other easy-to-lose backpacking gear before a trip, organize your gear closet or garage with Sidio Crates. These stackable, durable crates are highly customizable thanks to a nifty divider system and a slew of accessories , making them ideal for stashing everything from camp cooking gear to first aid essentials. We’re especially fond of the clear bins—they make it easy to find whatever you’re looking for—but the crates are available in a bunch of solid colors, too. Fourth of July shoppers can score 20 percent off when buying six or more crates, and 25 percent off on a dozen or more.

REI Co-op Traverse Trekking Poles for $83 ( $119 )

Ultralight carbon trekking poles are a dream until they’re a nightmare, snapping like exorbitantly priced twigs miles from civilization. Crafted from brawny 7075 aluminum, REI Co-op’s cork-gripped Traverse Trekking Poles are refreshingly durable. If you plan to use the included snow baskets in winter, it’s worth noting that the Traverse’s collapsible lever system is more trustworthy in snowy conditions than popular push-button styles, which often ice over at the most inopportune times.

Outdoor Research Echo Hooded Long-Sleeve Shirt for $56 ( $75 )

The sun hoodie is a popular category these days, and OR’s Echo is one of the best. Crafted from the brand’s aptly named, UPF-15, 100-polyester Airvent material, the Echo is lightweight and breathable enough to wear while crushing vert under the heat of the sun. The hood is a life-saver—or at the very least, a burn-blocker—on desert hikes and shadeless treks. Not to mention, the fabric is reinforced with OR’s ActiveFresh anti-odor treatment to reduce stink on multi-day missions. Certain sizes and colorways are now on sale for up to 60 percent off at Backcountry.

REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent With Footprint for $244 ( $349 )

Budget backpackers have turned to REI’s Half Dome tent for over two decades now, appreciative of the two-person tent’s frill-free design, spacious interior, on-trail dependability, and attractive price tag. It’s also much more spacious than standard two-person options, making it a better pick for backpackers who trek with doggos. While it’s a bit pricier than it was in the good ol’ days, REI also recently trimmed a pound of fat to better compete with pricier, lighter competitors. The updated SL+ version has a sub-four pound trail weight and remains reasonably priced—especially on sale for 30 percent off.

When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.

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Wildhaven Yosemite is the newest glamping destination for visitors to Yosemite National Park, located in the charming gold-rush town of Mariposa, CA. Guests can spend a unique and comfortable night outdoors in canvas tents or updated glamping cabins and get treated to beautiful views of rolling foothills & snow-capped mountains from the property. In addition to the comfortable beds with heat and electricity, guests have access to clean bathrooms & showers, hiking trails, outstanding views, a camp store, Wi-Fi, and help planning the perfect Yosemite getaway. Wildhaven is located 45 minutes from the park entrance, and just 1 mile from Mariposa. The location provides convenient access to nearby lakes and rivers for boating and swimming, restaurants and bars, wine tasting, skydiving, and more. Learn more at WildhavenYosemite.com …

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My stay at Wildhaven Yosemite was AMAZING! It was my first time visiting the Yosemite area, but not my first time glamping (I've stayed at their Sonoma location twice!) I am so pleased with this stunning property- Wildhaven really brings glamping to a whole new level and truly makes nature meet comfort. We stayed in Valley View Cabin #41 and it was super spacious! There's a little kitchen area that was perfect for prepping meals (bonus points for the fold out table), the bed was so comfortable and big, the view out the large window was stellar, and the hot shower was truly a luxury. The property is literally 5 minutes away from Mariposa where we drove to eat breakfast everyday at the local eateries- so yummy! Can't say enough about Wildhaven and the beauty of this place.

View of the cabins from the hike up to the pergola

Had the best time in Yosemite at Wildhaven! We stayed in one of the tiny cabins and it was so cute, clean and had all the amenities we needed. It was somewhere between glamping in a tent and staying in a full blown cabin. We had a small stove top and mini fridge, but no tv for instance. Which I loved because we were able to be really present and feel a little more removed from the luxuries of home. But if you are coming with little ones or the weather is questionable you may want to consider packing games or a project for movie night. Or just get creative like we did or venture into town!

See all photos from Annaliese P. for Wildhaven Yosemite

Absolutely gorgeous area, surrounded by lush hills. Although the weather wasn't as we had expected, just great views and photo opportunities. Not to mention the quick service by the host. He was very kind, and not only did he assist us with our requests (along with some tips), he went out of his way to make us comfortable and feel like we were a priority. The cabin was really cozy, and had comfy beds as well. All in all a great place to stay on your visit to Yosemite, whether you're a first time tourist, or an experienced traveler, or anything in between! Thank you Wildhaven!!

Love this spot! It's perfectly located near Mariposa so you can take advantage of the dining opportunities and only an hour from Yosemite's El Portal entrance. The property is quite expansive with hiking trails and communal gathering spots where they plan to offer yoga and live music in the summer. The studio cabin was quite spacious and we loved having our own kitchen with mini fridge. You won't feel the damp/cold that you usually get when camping in this area as Wildhaven is on a hillside. Sunset views were pretty epic!

Loved our stay in the premium queen tent! The site is extremely quiet; you'll get great sleep while you're here. The bathrooms are brand new and spotless. The staff is extremely helpful and offered great recommendations in Mariposa and Yosemite. We left the site around 7AM each day and it took us about 45 minutes to get to the Yosemite park entrance. We also spent a day exploring Mariposa where there's tons to do. It was so nice to come back to Wildhaven at the end of the day!

We visited Wildhaven Yosemite for a family weekend break from SF. The property is absolutely gorgeous, with private trails, great view points, and a real sense of being away from the crowds and in nature. We were blown away by our cabin, which felt really luxe and thoughtfully designed. It had everything we needed: a comfortable bed, hot shower, and a cute kitchenette. But it was the view from the huge picture windows that we loved the most - we spent both nights watching the sunset with a glass of wine after a day of activity. It's a super convenient location to get into the park, though next time I'd probably build in another night to just relax on site and not rush to get anywhere. It was ideal for a family with young kids, but I also think this would work well for a girls' trip. I'm already planning our next trip back!

See all photos from Catriona B. for Wildhaven Yosemite

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Business Owner

Mar 26, 2024

We appreciate you taking the time to leave us a review, Catriona! Hope to see your family up here again this summer!

I spent two nights at this wonderful place and would recommend it to anyone. First of all, Wildhaven is a beautiful property, in addition, the cabins are very comfortable with big windows, a well-designed kitchen, and a private patio which is great for relaxing during the day or sitting around the campfire at night. The staff is very friendly and attentive, I felt very welcome during my visit. The views of the surrounding hills and high Sierra are fantastic, also there were a lot of wildflowers at this time. There are hiking trails on the property and many other sites and trails to explore in the surrounding area. Yosemite Park is about an hour away and Mariposa is a great walking town with a solid selection of restaurants and shops. Wildhaven is well worth a visit!

We had the most amazing weekend at Wildhaven! We will most definitely be back. The accommodations were awesome and lovely- definitely recommend tent #22 which is nestled in the trees! The bathrooms were spotless and really nice- I did not feel like I was camping at all. The staff was sweet, knowledgeable, and seemed to work around the clock to cater to our every need- thank you!!! Highly recommend hiking to the lookout point- we went in May and saw the most beautiful wildflowers. Town is a 2 minute drive away. What more could you ask for? Ps. Our dog Frankie had the best time sitting on our deck enjoying the view.

See all photos from Ali A. for Wildhaven Yosemite

We came here as part of a trip to Yosemite. The cabins are really lovely and the views are incredible. We saw wild turkeys, crows, hawks, and enjoyed the sweet smell of spring and fresh air. A special shout out to the service here. Thank you Todd for your support and responsive and kind help!

This was an amazing experience! The campsite was exceptionally clean and the bathrooms/showers were more than I expected! Wonderful, peaceful, beautiful place! The staff were also extremely friendly and helpful.

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