Sierra Day Hikes – 4 Day
Explore the "quiet side" of Tahoe as we hike the hidden trails of the Tahoe National Forest on this weekend getaway. Day hiking through fern-carpeted cedar forests carrying only a daypack and a lunch, we'll explore an open granite basin dotted with alpine lakes and surrounded by the rugged summits of Old Man Mountain and the Black Buttes. Our destinations each day are hidden lakes or cascading mountain streams well off the beaten path, the perfect place for a cool mountain dip! At night we'll relax at our private, 160-acre REI Adventures Eagle Lakes camp located on the wild and scenic South Yuba River. Our secluded camp is completely surrounded by National Forest land with a private swimming hole, handmade fir and cedar camp furniture, private portable toilets, and expansive views of the granite-tipped Sierra. Our campsite is supplied with fresh Sierra Nevada well water, so there is no need to pack water in.
Sierra Day Hikes – 4 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 7 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
A hearty camp breakfast is served at 7:30 a.m. After an orientation and gear check we'll hike directly from camp, crossing the Yuba River on a fallen log bridge to begin our journey. Our hike this morning takes us to the open granite country of the Fordyce Creek Basin where we'll follow the cascading waters of Fordyce Creek to a series of waterfalls and deep pools, stopping to identify the many wildflowers along the way. There's plenty of time for a swim before returning for a BBQ dinner and s'mores at our private camp. Hiking distance: 5 miles, elevation gain 500'. All meals and snacks provided.
- Day 3
Our route this morning follows the Yuba River downstream to an impressive waterfall surrounded by smooth, flat granite and lots of swimming holes. After lunch on a granite sand beach we'll follow the river to where it cascades into a narrow gorge on Lake Spaulding: the ideal spot to swim, relax, and explore. Hiking distance: 4.5 miles, elevation gain 200'. All meals and snacks provided.
- Day 4
Today we have time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of our riverside camp. You can find a quiet spot to sit and relax with a book and an inspiring view of the solid granite dome of Old Man Mountain, spend time at our private swimming hole, or choose to explore a new section of trail on an optional guided hike. Depart Eagle Lakes campsite for home by 4 p.m. Hiking distance: 0 to 4 miles, elevation gain: 0 to 700'. Breakfast, lunch and snacks 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 weather and terrain conditions. This trip is operated rain or shine.
Contact REI Adventures prior to purchasing your airline tickets to confirm that the trip has the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Three nights tent camping at REI Adventures Eagle Lakes campsite; professional guiding; all meals from breakfast on Saturday morning through lunch on Monday; campsite and permit fees; on-trip van transportation from REI Eagle Lakes campsite to and from trailheads. Fresh spring water is available in camp. Toilet facilities consist of a private PortaPotty (or 2, based on group size) 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; insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages; soft drinks; guide gratuities and items of a personal nature.
Sacramento California, 90 miles, 1.75 hrs; or Reno Nevada, 61 miles, 1.25 hrs.
There is no reliable transfer service from any airport to our meeting place. Anticipate renting a car if flying in for this weekend getaway.
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 feel 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 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.
Sierra Day Hikes – 4 Day
Weather
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.
Gear Checklist
- Tents (3 season, 2 person)
- Camp Cooking gear
- Eating utensils, plates, cups
- Water filter
- Trip leader first aid kit
- Sleeping bag (20° - 25°)
- Sleeping pad
- Sleeping bag liner (optional, but comfortable and versatile, highly recommended)
- Daypack: approx. 1,500 - 2,000 cu”
- Pack cover – waterproof
- Rain jacket and pants, lightweight waterproof and breathable
- Midweight fleece jacket or wool sweater
- Mid- or lightweight thermal top and bottom made of synthetic or wool
- Hiking pants, quick-drying, lightweight (zip-off legs are great)
- Hiking shorts, quick-drying, lightweight
- T-shirts, synthetic
- Underwear
- Hiking socks, 3 pairs
- Swimsuit
- Sun hat with brim
- Wool or fleece hat
- Bandana
- Lightweight wool or fleece gloves
- Hiking boots: sturdy, stiff-soled, well broken-in
- Running shoes or sandals for around camp
- Tevas or equivalent, or lightweight water shoes for possible creek crossings
- Three 1-quart water bottles or hydration system equivalent
- Headlamp with spare batteries and bulb
- Sunglasses and retainer strap
- Sunblock and lip balm
- Personal medications
- Insect repellent (small, packable)
- Toiletry kit: roll of toilet paper, toothbrush & paste, pack towel (think light!)
- Personal first-aid kit, small and light
- Biodegradable soap
- Trekking poles
- Pocket knife or multi-tool
- Ear plugs
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
- Exceeded expectations (6)
- Guides (6)
- Well organized itinerary (6)
- Accommodations (5)
- Activity level (5)
Cons
Best Uses
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual adventurer (4)
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Destination (5), I liked the itinerary (5), Active adventures (4), Good value (3), Travel with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts (3)
Reviewed by 6 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-6
Pros
- Accommodations
- Exceeded Expectations
- Guides
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Sierra Day Hikes – 4 Day:
Great trip all the way around. Fabulous fellow travelers. Everyone had a great time.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Destination, I Liked the Itinerary
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- It was my first time camping and I didn't want to rough it completely. And the itinerary looked great.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- Loved the hikes. Very beautiful scenery with every step. The knowledgeable guides (Lynnea and Jerry) were great.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Follow the recommended gear list. Had the exact amount of clothes/items that I needed during the trip.
Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Once in a Lifetime Experience
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Sierra Day Hikes – 4 Day:
Fabulous time! That's pretty much it. You'll love the great scenery, the informative guides, the fabulous food (including fresh coffee every morning!) and everything else. Follow the recommended gear list. Brought what they recommended and it was perfect. It was my first time camping and this was a wonderful way to ease into it.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, Destination, I Liked the Itinerary
Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Enjoyable
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Soothing
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
- None
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Sierra Day Hikes – 4 Day:
- Excellent guide team
- Beatiful places
- Off the beaten path
- Both challenging and enjoyable
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- The place (Sierra Nevada) and the lengh, not too short, not too long.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- The places we went to
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Take the trip and enjoy yourself, it is worth every penny and effort.
Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Sierra Day Hikes – 4 Day:
The hikes are gorgeous, such an awesome place to see with great water spots to enjoy the water. Craig is so informative about the area and such a great cook! The swimming was great, although a bit cold, it felt wonderful after a day of hiking...the jumps were fun too!
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Recommended by a Friend, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- Friend recommended it I think! Looked like a great way to experience nature...and my first official hiking vacation.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- Our guides! The scenery! The relaxation!!
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Give yourself plenty of time to get to the campsite the first day, we were late so we got there in the dark, our group met us with headlamps which was a great welcoming but I would have liked to have had more time to settle in during the daylight...darn traffic!
Bottom LineYes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by SJMiller
Beautiful Water!
Images shared by SJMiller
Our group!
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
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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 Sierra Day Hikes – 4 Day:
I can't say enough about our guide. I really enjoyed the hikes he took us on and how he went about them. Each hike had something different to test our skills, and to build our confidence. He took the time to show everyone how to do something, but never did anything for them. He allowed each person to accomplish something on their own, but was always there for support. It was a great confidence-boosting weekend!
I also can't rave enough about the tent locations. The view was simply amazing every morning and every evening.
The food was also superb. I felt healthy and great each day. An excellent selection in my book.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I was looking for a good beginning hike. It was my first attempt at hiking and camping on a scale such as this. I have camped in campgrounds before but nothing like this. This one offered what I believed to be a stretch for me, but in a safe way as to not go too overboard to turn me off from hiking.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- I do not think I can really designate any one thing as the highlight. There were many! From bouldering, to multi-climate hiking, to cliff diving, it was just an awesome experience all around. I guess if I had to pick one thing as a highlight, it would be the lack of stress I felt on the trip. I was completely relaxed.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Bathing was always an option but prepare for the water to be a bit cold. We went on the last trip of the year, over Labor Day weekend, and it was a bit chilly. Otherwise, just the basics that are listed like containers for water, water shoes, a hat, and adaptable clothing.
Bottom LineYes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Andrew T
Camp Site
Images shared by Andrew T
Amazing Scenery
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
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Pros
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Guides
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
- Accommodations
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Sierra Day Hikes – 4 Day:
Guides were professionals and very knowledgable. Food was delicious and healthy. Learned useful information such as how black bears are very shy, water snakes are not harmful, how to climb boulders, etc. Seems like it would not have been hard or expensive for REI to have supplied tents with a little more room, maybe ones you don't have to crawl into. Also seems like it wouldn't have been too hard to have a camping shower that sucks water out of the river and, even though it might be cold river water, would allow you to wash without balancing on slimy rocks in a freezing cold, water snake abundant river. It added to our experience that the owner of the property dined with us one night and explained interesting information about the area.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Destination, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I like to hike and don't seem to do it on my own.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- Climbing boulders up the Yuba, discovering caves and waterfalls. The food, especially the organic food, was very good.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- You have to really like a small tent and the only bathing place to be a cold river.
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