Backpack Yosemite with Galz Gone Wild 2.0

Dates

May 17–22, 2024

Group Size

7–12 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Strenuous

About This Trip

Join your GGW Host as you journey above Yosemite Valley on this six-day backpacking trip along the North Rim. Wild camping under the stars, breathtaking views of Half Dome and the valley below, majestic pine scented forests, gushing and wild waterfalls, crisp clear blue rivers to swim in, lush green meadows, flora and fauna. This unparalleled wilderness combined with the peak hikes and backpacking 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 15+ kilos 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. Tent accommodation is based on two people sharing. This trip is operated by the Wildland Trekking Company, an authorized Guide company in Yosemite National Park.
$2,650USD
$2,650USD
May 17–22, 2024
6 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Galzgonewild_
Galzgonewild_

An all-female lead community that reconnects women with nature, the outdoors, themselves, and one another. GGW's mission is to create an equitable, inclusive, diverse and accessible outdoor community for all Women to have fun together and forge lifelong friendships both on and off the trail.

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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

What's included by Your Host

GGW Opening Circle

Informal Gathering
An opportunity to welcome everyone into the group, share in our excitement of this epic adventure and get to know each other.

3 Day Slieve Bloom Way Backpacking Training Weekend Ireland

Informal Gathering
Slieve Bloom Way Ireland 12th-14th April 2024 This training weekend is 4 weeks out from our Yosemite adventure and is a great opportunity to practice hiking consecutive days with a weighted pack. It's also a great time to meet your fellow adventurers who will be joining you on this trip. Our aim is to average 25km a day. Hiking and wild camping over the 3 days. Each person will carry their own packs which will include but not limited to their Tent, sleeping bag, mat, food, water, clothing etc. Tents are based on two people sharing. The tent parts will be divided between two people to carry e.g one person will carry the poles and pegs and the other carry the fly sheet and inner. This will help reduce the weight of your packs. This training weekend will require you to be fully self sufficient on the trails. You will be responsible for packing and carrying all your own gear, cooking, collecting water etc. In saying this we will be hiking this trail as a group and will be helping and supporting each other along the way. It's what makes Galz Gone Wild such a great community to be part of :) Meals, gear and transport are not included in this trip. However your trip Host Mel will of course be there to help everyone with any questions in the whatsapp group. She will offer tips about lightweight gear, what to bring, best meals to cook, how to cook, how to collect water etc. After completing this training weekend you can go into your Yosemite adventure with confidence knowing you have all the right gear and both the physical and mental strength to do it!

3 Galz Gone Wild hikes of your choice from the GGW website.

Informal Gathering
This is to allow you to further your training throughout the year. We recommend you book our difficult/advanced hikes. On the day of these hikes, carry heavier backpacks to get your bodies use to carrying additional weight.

ZOOM Q&A- Gear, Food, Training

Informal Gathering
Mel will host a Zoom Q&A Gathering. This will be a perfect opportunity to chat through the trip. Answer any questions about the trail, what gear to bring, clothes to wear, food to pack etc We will also have a female strength and conditioning coach on the call to chat to you about what training would be good to do to prepare your body for this trip.

GGW Closing circle

Informal Gathering
An opportunity to reflect and share our experiences in circle and close out the trip together.

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.

GGW Opening Circle

An opportunity to welcome everyone into the group, share in our excitement of this epic adventure and get to know each other.

3 Day Slieve Bloom Way Backpacking Training Weekend Ireland

Slieve Bloom Way Ireland 12th-14th April 2024 This training weekend is 4 weeks out from our Yosemite adventure and is a great opportunity to practice hiking consecutive days with a weighted pack. It's also a great time to meet your fellow adventurers who will be joining you on this trip. Our aim is to average 25km a day. Hiking and wild camping over the 3 days. Each person will carry their own packs which will include but not limited to their Tent, sleeping bag, mat, food, water, clothing etc. Tents are based on two people sharing. The tent parts will be divided between two people to carry e.g one person will carry the poles and pegs and the other carry the fly sheet and inner. This will help reduce the weight of your packs. This training weekend will require you to be fully self sufficient on the trails. You will be responsible for packing and carrying all your own gear, cooking, collecting water etc. In saying this we will be hiking this trail as a group and will be helping and supporting each other along the way. It's what makes Galz Gone Wild such a great community to be part of :) Meals, gear and transport are not included in this trip. However your trip Host Mel will of course be there to help everyone with any questions in the whatsapp group. She will offer tips about lightweight gear, what to bring, best meals to cook, how to cook, how to collect water etc. After completing this training weekend you can go into your Yosemite adventure with confidence knowing you have all the right gear and both the physical and mental strength to do it!

3 Galz Gone Wild hikes of your choice from the GGW website.

This is to allow you to further your training throughout the year. We recommend you book our difficult/advanced hikes. On the day of these hikes, carry heavier backpacks to get your bodies use to carrying additional weight.

ZOOM Q&A- Gear, Food, Training

Mel will host a Zoom Q&A Gathering. This will be a perfect opportunity to chat through the trip. Answer any questions about the trail, what gear to bring, clothes to wear, food to pack etc We will also have a female strength and conditioning coach on the call to chat to you about what training would be good to do to prepare your body for this trip.

GGW Closing circle

An opportunity to reflect and share our experiences in circle and close out the trip together.

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

5 Hours

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

6 Hours

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

7 Hours

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

6 Hours

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:Strenuous

These trips require serious physical activity. You may need special certifications and experience to participate in these adrenaline-pumping challenges. If your idea of a good time is scaling mountains, multi-day hikes or deep-sea dives, these level 5 itineraries have your name all over them.

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.

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.
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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.

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.