Sierra Day Hikes – 3 Day

Sierra Day Hikes – 3 Day Itinerary:

• Day 1

  Your trip begins today in Eagle Lakes, California.  Arrive at the REI Adventures Eagle Lakes campsite anytime between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. this evening.  Our camp host will be waiting to greet you and show you to your tent.  A cozy campfire under the bright Sierra stars will welcome you and your fellow hikers to the mountains.  Dinner is on your own tonight – there are no services at Eagle Lakes, so plan on stopping at or before Colfax if coming from Sacramento or in Truckee if coming from Reno.

• Day 2

  Meet your guides and other group members for a hearty camp breakfast at 7:30 a.m.  After an orientation and gear check we’ll hike directly from camp and wade across the Yuba River where we’ll pick up a seldom-used trail that leads up to wide open granite country of Fordyce Creek Basin.  We’ll follow the cascading waters of Fordyce Creek to a series of waterfalls and deep pools, stopping to identify the many wildflowers we’ll encounter along the way.  There’s plenty of time for a swim before returning to our private camp for a BBQ dinner and s’mores by the campfire.  Hiking distance: 5-10 miles, elevation gain 700’-2500’ (depending on group’s desires/abilities).  All meals provided.

• Day 3

  Our route this morning follows the nearby Yuba River downstream to an impressive waterfall surrounded by smooth, flat granite: the ideal spot to swim, relax, and explore. There’s even a rope swing along the way!  Depart Eagle Lakes campsite for home by 4:00 p.m. Hiking distance: 3-5 miles, elevation gain 100’-700’ (depending on groups desires/abilities).  Breakfast and lunch provided.

Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including group members’ abilities, weather and terrain conditions.  This trip is operated rain or shine.

Two nights tent camping at REI Adventures Eagle Lakes campsite; professional guiding; meals as noted in the daily itinerary; campsite and permit fees; on-trip van transportation from REI Eagle Lakes campsite to and from trailheads.  Fresh well water is available in camp.  Toilet facilities consist of a private PortaPotty used only by our group.  Bathing is accomplished with a dip in the nearby Yuba River (biodegradable soap only).

Transportation from your hometown to group meeting point; park entrance fees where required, insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages; soft drinks; guide gratuities and items of a personal nature.

This trip is rated Moderate (3) as we plan to hike 4-6 hours each day.  If the group is up for more activity, longer hiking options will be provided, and any hike or activity can be opted out of if you are feeling like relaxing in camp instead.  To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and to avoid sore muscles, we suggest that you engage in a regular exercise regimen beginning at least three months prior to your departure.  Most important to your enjoyment of the trip is your overall fitness level. 

Daytime temperatures usually range between 60-80°F, with evening temperatures dropping to the 40s and 50s. Early- or late-season trips will experience a wider range of temperatures. Thunderstorms are a possibility at any time in the mountains making adequate raingear a necessity.

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Weekend Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and detailed pre-trip information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased within 21 days of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

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