Backpacking in Yosemite with Denae!

Dates

Sep 18–23, 2023

Group Size

8–12 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Challenge

About This Trip

Journey above Yosemite Valley on this six-day backpacking trip along the North Rim. Take in the breathtaking views of Half Dome and the valley below, the majestic forests, the rivers and waterfalls. This unparalleled wilderness combined with the peak hikes is sure to be the adventure of a lifetime. TRIP DISCLAIMER: Our backcountry adventures take you to wild, remote destinations where you will be exposed to the majesty and challenges of the outdoors. You should be able to withstand exposure to a variety of climatic conditions, such as heat, cold, rain and wind. You should have a good understanding of your ability and be able to self-monitor your health. You must have a high-level of fitness and have the experience and ability to complete all stages of the hike. Please keep in mind that daily elevation gain can be over 3000 feet. You'll carry a pack weighing 35-45 pounds containing your sleeping bag, pad, tent, clothing, personal items, water, and a share of the group's trip food and a share of group trip gear. You could be hiking with the weight of this backpack for up to 6 or more hours (depending on the pace of your group) in a day over steep, loose, rocky, and/or exposed terrain. Guides are extensively trained to ensure a safe trip, but will need your attention to ensure a memorable backcountry experience. This trip is operated by the Wildland Trekking Company, an authorized Guide company in Yosemite National Park.
$2,585USD
$2,685USD
Sep 18–23, 2023
6 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

The weekend forecast
The weekend forecast

Hey everyone! I am Denae Karber I will be your host, i could not be more excited to share this adventure with all of you! I have been hoping for a way to get a group of ladies together for a while and this trip is it! This time is going to create memories for a life time and friendships for a life time. Cant wait to meet everyone!

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Trip Activities

  • Day 2 Backpacking

  • Day 3 Hiking in the High Country

  • Day 4 Backpacking

  • Day 5 Backpacking

  • Yosemite Valley Highlights

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in tents (singles available on request)

  • Certified hiking Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (one at 12 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (one on morning of last day)

  • Tips for Guides are included

Not Included

  • Flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to California! You will be picked up at the airport and transferred to Mariposa where you'll meet your Guide. From here, you'll shuttle into Yosemite Valley and get settled into the Backpackers Camp, a stone's throw from majestic Tenaya Creek and under the spectacular domes and cliffs of Yosemite Valley.

Arrival Transfer

4 Hours 30 Mins

Transfer

dinner

Welcome dinner at camp is included.

Backpackers Camp

Night 1/1

Tent camping in Backpackers Campground.

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Day 2

Info

Your hike begins with a hike from the Yosemite Valley, upward towards the Northern Rim, with awesome views of Tenaya Canyon and the north face of Half Dome. The trail finally reaches the shade of a black oak forest near the northern rim of Yosemite Valley. A bit farther on, you’ll make camp beside the gentle cascades of a creek and enjoy the pine-scented air as your Guide prepares a well-deserved dinner.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included.

Day 2 Backpacking

1 Hour

Hike Mileage: approx. 4.5 miles / Elevation Gain: approx 3,115 feet, Elevation Loss: approx. 375 feet. / Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

lunch

Picnic lunch on the trail is included.

dinner

Dinner at camp is included.

Backcountry Campsite

Night 1/1

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Day 3

Info

You’ll explore the surrounding high country with excursions to either the historic Snow Creek Cabin and summit the secluded Mount Watkins; or a day hike to the summit of Eagle Peak or El Capitan, depending on current factors.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included.

Day 3 Hiking in the High Country

1 Hour

Leave your heavier packs at camp and take day bags to explore the nearby high country. There are plenty of routes to choose from, so regardless of the path you choose, you will get to explore an incredible part of the Yosemite landscape.

lunch

Picnic lunch on the trail is included.

dinner

Dinner at camp is included.

Backcountry Campsite

Night 2/1

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Day 4

Info

Today you will continue your backpacking journey along the north rim, reaching the summit of North Dome. This is Half Dome’s smaller twin and the only natural arch in Yosemite National Park that is above water. Make camp beside a forest stream and gaze at the stars after dinner.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included.

Day 4 Backpacking

1 Hour

Hiking Mileage: approx. 8 miles / Elevation Gain/Loss: approx. 2,200 feet / Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

lunch

Picnic lunch on the trail is included.

dinner

Dinner at camp is included.

Backcountry Campsite

Night 3/1

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Day 5

Info

It’s your final day on the rim, you’ll break camp and descend back into the valley on a scenic trail with majestic views, tumbling waterfalls and evergreen forests. You’ll arrive at the backpacker's campsite around lunchtime, where you can relax and reflect before a final, farewell dinner.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included.

Day 5 Backpacking

1 Hour

Hiking Mileage: approx. 6.5 miles / Elevation Gain: approx. 1,160 feet / Elevation Loss: approx. 4,240 feet. / Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

lunch

Picnic lunch on the trail is included.

dinner

Farewell Dinner at the backpacker's campsite.

Backpackers Camp (or similar)

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

Night 5/1

Tent camping in Backpackers Campground.

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Day 6

Info

Until next time! Pack up and say farewell to your new backpacking friends.

breakfast

Breakfast at the campground is included.

Yosemite Valley Highlights

1 Hour

Your trip isn't quite over, as you'll have some time to visit Tunnel View and the valley below El Capitan for some classic views and photo stops before your transfer back to San Francisco.

Departure Transfer

4 Hours 30 Mins

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Physical Activity Level:Challenge

These trips are designed to increase your heart rate. You can expect daily hikes or swims, long-distance bike rides and a good amount of sweat. These itineraries are meant for adventure and are perfect for those with a higher level of physical fitness. Some training may be required to prepare for 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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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.

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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:

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  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
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  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
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You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

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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.

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