Yosemite, Sequoia, + Big Sur with Rachel Macy Stafford

Dates

Sep 19–24, 2024

Group Size

8–11 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Adventure

About This Trip

On this epic six-day adventure, we'll hike and explore three national parks in the Sierra Nevada mountains before heading to the stunning California coast. Our adventure begins in Yosemite's breath-taking granite wonderland, then we’ll head to Sequoia and King’s Canyon where we will walk among the oldest and most majestic trees in the world. Next, we'll road trip to the coast and kayak alongside sea lions and otters in Monterey Bay. Finally, we'll head south to embrace the serenity of the Big Sur coastline. Along our travels, Rachel Macy Stafford will lead meaningful discussions and introspective exercises to shed light on damaging beliefs that keep you from hearing the guidance of your soul and pursuing the delights of your heart. Please Note: This is a participatory camping trip, in which all Travelers will be assisting in setting up camp and cooking meals. Guides will teach you the best methods for quick set up and take down of tents and will lead the cooking, providing clear instructions and oversight. If you’ve never set up camp or cooked outdoors before, this is the perfect opportunity to learn under expert supervision!
$2,355USD
$2,455USD
Sep 19–24, 2024
6 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Rachel Macy Stafford
Rachel Macy Stafford

Rachel is a self-professed “directionally-challenged traveler” who has spent the past 10 years learning to trust the guidance of her soul. Rachel believes when we go outside our comfort zone, we are able to hear our deepest longings and identify our most authentic path. Rachel wants to explore places she has never seen and hopes you do too!

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Trip Activities

  • Yosemite: Hetch Hetchy Hike

  • Yosemite: Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls Hike

  • Kings Canyon: General Grant Grove

  • Sequoia: General Sherman Visit and Congress Trail Hike

  • Sequoia: Moro Rock Trail

  • Kayak Monterey Bay

  • Highlights of Big Sur

  • Big Sur: McWay Falls

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in tents (limited single tents available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (noon on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (evening of last day, please book flights for after 6 pm)

  • All camping and cooking equipment (except for sleeping bag and pillow)

Not Included

  • Flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas (if needed) and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Sleeping bag and pillow

  • Tips for Guides

What's included by Your Host

Welcome Session

Informal Gathering
After returning to the campsite after the day's activities, Rachel will lead each participant through exercises designed to identify their goals and re-inspire hope for new or lost dreams.

Self-Compassion Session

Informal Gathering
Upon returning to the campsite after the day's activities, we will identify at least one self-sabotaging statement that keeps us from trusting the guidance of our soul and pursuing the delights of our heart. Participants will learn tools for responding compassionately and impartially to their number one critic – themselves.

Authenticity Session

Informal Gathering
Upon returning to the campsite after the day's activities, we will practice how to shed facades and remove masks; a necessary step in gaining self understanding and lasting motivation. Participants will take a significant step toward living as their authentic self by learning about themselves and identifying exactly what it is they need to thrive.

Self-Honoring Session

Informal Gathering
Upon returning to the campsite after the day's activities, participants will identify when and where their heart feels most assured and at peace — and then we will craft a plan for boundary-setting so they can live from that place when they return home.

Reconnection Session

Informal Gathering
Upon returning to the campsite after the day's activities, participants will reconnect with their inner dreamer as a means of discerning what some of their gifts are and how they can offer them to the world. Rachel will invite participants to articulate their unvoiced dreams and experience the empowering feeling of support through the friendships made in the group.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to the Golden State! Start your adventure with a short hike in the Hetch Hetchy area of Yosemite after your transfer. Later, enjoy a welcome dinner with your group.

Airport Transfer

4 Hours 30 Mins

(~4.5 hours)

Yosemite: Hetch Hetchy Hike

1 Hour

Enjoy this hike in the high country of Yosemite. Distance: 2.5 miles / Elevation Gain: 400ft / Duration: 1-2hrs / Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

dinner

Included welcome dinner at the campground.

Welcome Session

After returning to the campsite after the day's activities, Rachel will lead each participant through exercises designed to identify their goals and re-inspire hope for new or lost dreams.

Yosemite Lakes Campground

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight camping by Yosemite National Park

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Day 2

Info

It's a full day in Yosemite today as you hike and explore one of the premier national parks of the United States. Your Guide will take you on the picture-perfect Mist trail as you hike up to Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls.

breakfast

Included breakfast at the campsite.

Yosemite: Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls Hike

1 Hour

While many of Yosemite's hikes are centered on a final destination, this route features stunning views the whole way, from Upper Yosemite Falls across the Valley to the phenomenal granite heights of Liberty Cap, Grizzly Peak, the Panorama Cliffs, Sentinel Dome, Glacier Point, and even Half Dome soaring above your head. Hike Distance: 7.5 miles / Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,900 feet. Difficulty: Strenuous / Duration: 5-6hrs

lunch

Included pack lunch.

dinner

Included dinner at the campsite.

Self-Compassion Session

Upon returning to the campsite after the day's activities, we will identify at least one self-sabotaging statement that keeps us from trusting the guidance of our soul and pursuing the delights of our heart. Participants will learn tools for responding compassionately and impartially to their number one critic – themselves.

Yosemite Lakes Campground

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight camping by Yosemite National Park

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Day 3

Info

Travel further into the Sierra Nevada mountains as you head south into the incredibly impressive Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Stop first to walk the General Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park, then hike the Congress Trail, home to many mighty sequoias. Marvel at the sight of General Sherman, the single largest tree in the entire world, then hike up Moro Rock for expansive views of the surrounding forest and sierras.

breakfast

Included breakfast at the campsite.

Yosemite to Sequoia and Kings Canyon

4 Hours 30 Mins

Head south along the Sierras into Sequoia and Kings Canyon. (~4.5 hours)

Kings Canyon: General Grant Grove

1 Hour

An impressive behemoth of a tree, we'll stop first to view General Grant and eat our picnic lunches in Kings Canyon National Park.

lunch

Included pack lunch.

Sequoia: General Sherman Visit and Congress Trail Hike

1 Hour

Pay a visit to the largest tree in the entire world! It stands 275 feet tall and is over 36 feet in diameter at the base. From the nearby trailhead, you'll walk through other impressive sequoias on the Congress Trail, each tree named after politicians of the past. Distance: 3 miles / Elevation: 483 / Difficulty: Easy / Duration: 1.5hrs

Sequoia: Moro Rock Trail

1 Hour

A concrete and stone stairway leads over 350 steps to the top of Moro Rock. Even just a short distance from the parking area and above the forests' canopy, the Great Western Divide's peaks become visible. As you climb, views open up from the foothills and San Joaquin Valley to the west, to deep into the wilderness to the east. Distance: 0.5 miles / Elevation: 189ft / Difficulty: Moderate / Duration: 30 minutes

dinner

Included dinner at the campsite.

Authenticity Session

Upon returning to the campsite after the day's activities, we will practice how to shed facades and remove masks; a necessary step in gaining self understanding and lasting motivation. Participants will take a significant step toward living as their authentic self by learning about themselves and identifying exactly what it is they need to thrive.

Visalia/Sequoia NP KOA

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight camping in Visalia

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Day 4

Info

After breakfast this morning you'll head west, leaving the mountains for the equally stunning California coastline. Take to the water on kayaks, exploring Monterey Bay with stunning scenery and wildlife. Say goodbye to the seals and sea lions as you head back to shore and down into Big Sur for the night.

breakfast

Included breakfast at the campsite.

From the Mountains to the Coast

4 Hours

Head across the central valley to the coastal town of Monterey. (~4 hours)

lunch

Included pack lunch.

Kayak Monterey Bay

1 Hour 30 Mins

This afternoon you'll paddle in the beautiful Monterey Bay, a protected zone where you can spot sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, shorebirds, and more!

dinner

Included dinner at the campsite.

Self-Honoring Session

Upon returning to the campsite after the day's activities, participants will identify when and where their heart feels most assured and at peace — and then we will craft a plan for boundary-setting so they can live from that place when they return home.

Camping on the California Coast

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight camping on the California Coast

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

It's time to explore Big Sur! Hit the highlights including Andrew Molera State Park and the ocean bluff, Pfieffer Beach, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and McWay Falls.

breakfast

Included breakfast at the campsite.

Highlights of Big Sur

1 Hour

From the bluffs of Andrew Molera to the picturesque Pfeiffer Beach, and the coastal redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Parks, you'll spend the full day with your Guide exploring and marveling at one of the best coastal areas in the world.

lunch

Included pack lunch.

Big Sur: McWay Falls

1 Hour

Enjoy the short walk down to a viewpoint of this waterfall on the beach, the iconic image on all Big Sur postcards. Distance: 0.5 miles / Elevation: 50ft / Difficulty: Easy / Duration: 20 minutes

dinner

Included dinner at the campsite.

Reconnection Session

Upon returning to the campsite after the day's activities, participants will reconnect with their inner dreamer as a means of discerning what some of their gifts are and how they can offer them to the world. Rachel will invite participants to articulate their unvoiced dreams and experience the empowering feeling of support through the friendships made in the group.

Camping on the California Coast

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight camping on the California Coast

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

It's your final morning as you head north to San Francisco and your flight back home. Enjoy the sights on your coastal drive north. Until next time!

breakfast

Included breakfast at the campsite

Airport Transfer

2 Hours

(~2 hours)

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Physical Activity Level:Adventure

These trips are great if you want to get moving. These itineraries may include scenic hikes and/or exercise. A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy these trips.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

How does a Trova Trip actually work? Who's involved?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your trip to life:

  • The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
  • The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform that powers it all. We connect Hosts with trusted Operators, provide the tools to design and manage trips, and support Travelers before and during their journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Does my Host make money from hosting?

TL;DR: Sometimes! Many Hosts earn income from leading trips, but not always.

Every trip on Trova is uniquely shaped by the Host. They choose the destination, curate the itinerary, and rally their community to come along for the adventure. It’s a big effort (and a rewarding one, or so we hear!).

A Host’s earnings depend on the trip price they set and how many Travelers join. Trova provides the tools, support, and platform—but ultimately, income isn’t guaranteed.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.