Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country
Are you new to backpacking or simply hoping to bypass the work of planning it all yourself? Either way, this adventure is sure to speak to you as you explore what some call "the real Yosemite" in an area known as the high country. The park can be enjoyed through a variety of routes, each with its own distinct and ideal season and conditions for exploration. Our guides will take you into the backcountry and show you the wonders of the mountains while teaching you how to establish a camp with minimum environmental impact, the basics of packing light, natural history, and personal care. Be aware that this is a backpacking course, and participants will be required to carry their personal gear (weighing about 20-25 lbs) and a portion of their tent, food, and group gear (weighing about 10-15 lbs) for the duration of the trip.
Routes are dependent upon a number of factors: Park Service permits, area conditions, etc., and may not be known until quite near the departure date. All itineraries are equally unforgettable and will provide a magical experience in the sublime beauty of one of the world's most revered wilderness areas. Mileage and elevation gain and loss will vary accordingly, but be prepared to hike 2 to 9 miles daily (at an altitude above 8,000 feet) with anywhere from 200 to 1700 feet of elevation gain or loss.
Looking for more ways to get away from the crowds and explore Yosemite’s backcountry? See another side of the park with our Hetch Hetchy backpacking trip or set yourself up for some stunning views on our Yosemite Valley backpacking adventure.
Yosemite Backpacking: The High Country Itinerary:
Day 1 Welcome to Yosemite where our backpacking adventure begins at Backpackers Camp with dinner and orientation.
Day 2 Enjoy a full day of backpacking among the peaks and domes of the high country.
Day 3 Continue exploring the magnificent backcountry, working on your skills, and enjoying the scenery.
Day 4 Break camp and enjoy a final view of Yosemite's granite icons today before we head back to civilization.
There are numerous beautiful and suitable routes available to our guides, and these routes may vary slightly from the suggestion above when circumstances or conditions warrant. This trip is operated rain or shine.
Contact REI Adventures prior to purchasing your airline tickets to confirm the trip has the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Professional instruction and guiding; meals as noted on the daily itinerary; 2-person tents; group cooking gear; group first aid kit, water filter; campsite and permit fees; shuttle between trailheads.
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.
Merced, CA: 127 miles, 3 hours
Fresno, CA: 144 miles, 3.5 hours
Oakland, CA: 207 miles, 4 hours
Reno, NV: 211 miles, 4.5 hours
REI Adventures recommends one of the following ways to make your rendezvous: either rent a car and drive to the designated location or fly into Merced, CA and use YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation Service) to travel the rest of the way. YARTS can be contacted at 1-877-98-YARTS.
Please note that you may not be able to connect with YARTS service out of the park until after 5:00 p.m. on the last day of our itinerary on most departures, and this may impact your air travel plans.
Daytime temperatures usually range between 60-80 degrees F, with evening temperatures dropping to the 40s or 50s. You may encounter freezing temperatures at some of the higher elevations. Afternoon thunderstorms are a distinct possibility so adequate raingear is important.
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 at the time 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.
Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country
The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. Try to bring only what is necessary—this will help you and the field staff.
Gear Checklist
- Tents (3-season, 2-person)
- Cooking gear
- Stoves and fuel
- Water filter
- Group first-aid kit
- Bear canister
- Backpack: large internal frame or external frame (4000-6000 cu”)
- Pack cover - waterproof
- Sleeping bag (rated at 20º-25º F)
- Sleeping pad
- Small lightweight day pack
- Rain jacket and pants, lightweight waterproof and breathable
- Midweight fleece jacket or wool sweater
- Midweight thermal top and bottom made of synthetic or wool
- Hiking pants, quick-drying, lightweight (zip-off legs are great). No jeans!
- Hiking shorts, quick-drying, lightweight
- 1 T-shirt, synthetic
- 2 changes of underwear
- Hiking socks, 2 pairs of wool or synthetic
- Sock liners, 2 pairs of synthetic liners (optional)
- Sun hat with brim
- Wool or fleece hat
- Bandana
- Lightweight wool or fleece gloves
- Hiking boots: heavy duty, waterproof, and well broken-in, should rise above ankle
- Two 1-quart water bottle, Nalgene-type, even if you have a hydration system
- Headlamp with spare batteries and bulb
- Plastic bowl, spoon, fork, 16 oz. mug with lid
- Sunglasses and retainer strap
- Sunblock, small amount not the whole bottle, min SPF 25
- Lip balm (unscented)
- Insect repellent (small)
- Head net for mosquitoes, especially in July
- Toothbrush & trial-sized paste
- Pack towel and/or washcloth
- Personal first aid kit, small and light with personal medications
- Bic lighter
- TP System: In a gallon Ziploc Bag store these items from the packlist above: Toilet paper (not a full roll) & 1 ziploc quart baggie, orange plastic trowel, WetOnes, Feminine Wipes, Pantiliners for women
- 1 large plastic garbage bag
- Trekking poles
- Down vest or jacket (highly recommended)
- Swimsuit (for bathing and swimming)
- Compass - the guide teaches with a Sunto M-2
- Ear plugs
- Lightweight camp shoes/sandals
- Journal and pen
- Pocket knife or multi-tool (small & lightweight)
- Camera and spare batteries
- Hydration system (bring at least one Nalgene-type bottle, even if you do bring a hydration system)
Feel free to give us a call at (800) 622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales (800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out www.rei.com/learn. The Expert Advice section on our "Learn" page has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
- Well organized itinerary (12)
- Guides (11)
- Activity level (10)
- Group camaraderie (10)
- Exceeded expectations (8)
Cons
Best Uses
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual adventurer (8), Casual/ recreational (5)
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active adventures (11), Destination (10), Travel with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts (9), I liked the itinerary (8), All the details planned for me (6)
Reviewed by 12 customers
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Pros
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Once in a Lifetime Experience
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
Great way to get a backpacking trip under your belt. You won't be disappointed.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- This was a birthday gift/bucket list adventure to myself so I went with a backpacking adventure during that time frame and the Yosemite Backpacking to the Sierra High Country fit the bill.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- The camaraderie of our group was very special and the guides were excellent!
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Really practice mountain hiking type terrain and hills. Also, don't underestimate warm (yet light weight) clothing.
Pros
- Activity Level
- Food
- Guides
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
This trip was a perfect blend of stunningly beautiful nature, knowledgeable and fun guides, and physically challenging activity. Stick to the supply list closely, and make you sure to get consistent cardiovascular training before the trip. The hike through Yosemite will leave you with a life time of wonderful memories, and a lifetime of skills to continue on confidently with similar adventures.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
Bottom LineYes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Mike Gershberg
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Pros
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
All aspects of this trip were well planned. The food was very good for a backpacking trip. Spaghetti and Fajitas are not meals I expected on a backpacking trip. The hikes were about what I was looking for in difficulty. The second day we did day hikes and were given several options. I opted for a more difficult hike that gave a great view of the Northern portion of the park. If you want to visit Yosemite and do a backpacking trip, this is a great way to do it.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, Destination, I Liked the Itinerary
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I took this trip because I wanted to take a backpacking trip in Yosemite and plans with friends fell through.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- The day hikes we did on day two of the trip gave some great views of the Northern part of Yosemite.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- If you are not familiar with the area around Yosemite ( I wasn't. ), pay attention to the time that is mentioned to get to the meeting location. Yes, it is only 110 miles from Fresno, but it is still going to take the 4 hours they list to reach the meeting location. I gave myself extra time to get there and was glad I did.
Pros
- Activity Level
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
Very organized trip. Hiking was strenuous enough to get a good workout, but not so bad that the group couldn't stay together. Also liked that groups of us would form to try out routes. Everyone seemed to be able to find a group that fit their desire for adventure. Was amazed at how much camaraderie there was in the group after only a couple of days. Definitely recommend this trip if you want to learn more about backpacking or want to enjoy the majesty and beauty of Yosemite.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, Destination, I Liked the Itinerary
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I chose this trip because I wanted to extend my backpacking experience beyond several day hikes and single night camping trips into multi-day trips into the back country. The Rocky Mountain trip seemed a little too hard and this seemed like the perfect trip for someone looking to grow their skills. Several people in the group were day hikers/ car campers and wanted to do the same thing.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- The very best part of this trip was the day hike we took from our base camp at the lower Grant Lake up to a 10,000 ft ridge overlooking the 10 lakes area. We had lunch on the ridge and just sat there taking in the gorgeous scenery for several minutes.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Really pay attention to the gear list and be very systematic about it. I used everything on the list and other things would have been dead weight. Definitely get in cardio several weeks/months before you trip if you don't exercise much. You'll need it for the hill climbs and some of the longer stretches. A down sweater/jacket is ideal for keeping warm over fleece.
Bottom LineYes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by OutdoorJim
View overlooking ten lakes
Images shared by OutdoorJim
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
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Pros
- Activity Level
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
The itinerary was very well planned and worked well for me - a flat lander in reasonable shape but doesn't work out that much. Loved Yosemite and the guides' love and knowledge of the place also. The views were stunning, and the group was terrific. The REI staff on the phone and email were terrific as well. The only thing I didn't like was balancing my dislike of getting up in the middle of the night with a full bladder, with the important need to drink lots of water at that altitude :-)
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, Destination, I Liked the Itinerary, Pro help in bear country, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I wanted to go backpack camping with my son, but don't have enough experience to feel comfortable in bear country on our own. The itinerary looked good, and I liked that it assumed comfort being outdoors, but would teach some basics to first-time backpack campers.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- All of it, but probably enjoying the beauty of our essentially private lake Saturday night, and how great the group was with my 15 yr-old son.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- As they say, pack EXACTLY what is suggested. You really don't need more. Get your backpack fitted well to you and use it, full, in advance with your boots. Bring your smile and good attitude and you'll have a great time.
Bottom LineYes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by AnneK
Saturday night campsite
Images shared by AnneK
Finding bones
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
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Pros
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
The guides were extremely knowledgeable in the botany, geology, and weather of the area. And good cooks.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I choose this trip for the price and time frame. But after I can say that I would choose it for the itinerary and the great guides.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- Swimming in the river.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- If you plan on using YARTS transportation, it is not all that convenient for this trip due to their schedule. Also if you fly into Merced, CA on the regional airline ,Great Lakes Aviation, don't be surprised if your flight is canceled or several hours late.
Bottom LineYes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Joe Schmoe
Swimming in the river of icy snow melt
Images shared by Joe Schmoe
View from camp of Alpine lake
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Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
The leaders were very knowledgeable about the trails, flowers, and waterways. The meals were tasty and appetizing, and the conversations were always fun, lighthearted and enlightening.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I wanted my first backpacking experience to be to a location that I have visited before but only from the valley floor. I wanted to know what was "up there" above the falls.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- The highlight was taking in the views of the vistas that we hiked to and the camaraderie of the group.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- The trip was so well-planned and organized that it was worry/hassle free. The guides were so supportive that any reservations I had about hiking through challenging terrain were quickly squelched.
Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Once in a Lifetime Experience
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Spectacular Views
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
The food was excellent on this trip. We were definitely spoiled by our guides, who prepared all of our meals (3 a day) and cleaned up afterward; something that will be missed on my future personal backpacking trips.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I've always been interested in backpacking, but never really knew where to start. This trip was the perfect opportunity to gain experience in the back country and get some tips from pros who have been doing this for years. Also, I've always wanted to experience Yosemite, not just drive through and take a few snapshots from the valley floor.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- There were so many great moments throughout this trip. If I had to pick one, then it would be the view from Eagle Peak.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Go! That is my advice. You won't regret it.
Bottom LineYes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by jeffhunta
View from Eagle Peak
Images shared by jeffhunta
Creek Crossing
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
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Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
Being at Yosemite is like being home. I never get tired of the scenery and the wildlife. The guides have a wealth of backpacking experience that I will use on my future backpacking trips.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, Good Value, Recommended by a Friend, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I wanted to learn how to backpack first hand.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- An afternoon side hike.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Be prepared to carry a backpack weighing 35 pounds.
Pros
- Exceeded Expectations
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Once in a Lifetime Experience
- Perfect begining experien
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Yosemite Backpacking – The High Country:
I took the Yosemite Valley trip and loved the views and natural surroundings. It was great crossing the streams, following the trails deep into the backcountry. The guides made the trip a really positive experience.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Destination, Good Value, Professionalism
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- To begin to learn about backpacking.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- Fantastic location and great people.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- You want to take very light equipment and minimal "stuff" don't take anything you don't require.
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