Yosemite Valley Hiking & Camping | Under 35

Trip Length3 Days
Group Size4–12
Activity level
Starting from
$1,649 for REI Members
$1,809 for non-members
DeparturesMay 2024-Oct 2024

Hit the trail with a group of like-minded adventurers to explore the scenic wonders of Yosemite National Park on this fun-filled 3-day hiking trip designed especially for travelers aged 18–35 (but anyone over 18 can join!).

A hiker’s dream destination, Yosemite National Park contains some of the most beautiful and dramatic mountain landscapes in the American West. Its majestic redwood groves, soaring peaks and enormous glacier-carved valleys blend together to form an awe-inspiring wilderness playground. On this memorable backcountry adventure, we hike along some of the park’s most spectacular trails in the shadows of giant sequoias and alongside roaring waterfalls hundreds of feet tall. We also take in panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and its iconic granite formations, including El Capitan, Half Dome and Cathedral Rocks. While the days are action-packed, the evenings are the epitome of relaxation as we return to our campsite and enjoy the camaraderie of our fellow adventurers, and the delicious meals prepared by our exceptional guides. A perfect long-weekend getaway to escape from the routines of daily life and forge new friendships with those who share your passion for outdoor exploration.

Enjoy a perfect long-weekend getaway to escape from the routines of daily life and forge new friendships with those who share the same passion for outdoor exploration.

Trip Highlights

  • Discover the scenic highlights of Yosemite National Park on this active 3-day adventure
  • Explore the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias and hike among the largest trees on Earth
  • Climb the granite stairs of the Mist Trail past thundering Vernal and Nevada Falls
  • Soak up Ansel Adams views of Yosemite Valley
  • Sleep in comfy oversized tents and enjoy delicious guide-prepared meals

Activities

This trip is rated Moderate [3]. Participants should be comfortable with daily hikes ranging between 3 - 8 miles with elevation gains/losses of up to 3,800 ft. Guests should expect to carry a 5-10 pound day pack over varied terrain between 5,000' and 8,000' in elevation. Trails are composed of dirt and granite with some steep sections and exposed overlooks..

All hikes are optional and our guides will brief trip members on the vigorousness and exposure of each hike prior to setting out; however, trip members should have previous hiking experience and be in good physical condition. We recommend a conditioning regimen beginning at least 3 months prior to departure that includes hiking (preferably), walking or some other form of cardiovascular exercise (swimming, cycling) in order to prepare for the activity in this adventure.

  • Hiking

What's Included

Two nights camping accommodations; guide leadership; round-trip van transportation from/to Fresno, California; all meals beginning with lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 3; beverages including coffee, hot tea and hot chocolate; all group camping equipment; park fees and local taxes.

Accommodations

Camping, 2 nights

Your Adventure Itinerary

Itinerary map for Yosemite Valley Hiking & Camping | Under 35
Day 1

Arrive in Yosemite and explore the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias

Our trip begins early today in Fresno, California, where we meet our guides and fellow hikers at the host hotel. After a warm welcome and brief orientation, we jump in our private van and begin the drive to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park. One of three spectacular groves of redwoods in Yosemite, the Tuolumne Grove reveals the magic of these majestic trees that occur nowhere else in the world, with their gorgeous red-barked trunks soaring over 200 feet into the Sierra sky. Our hike leads us into the heart of this magnificent grove and allows ample time to photograph and wander among these awe-inspiring arboreal giants. After reinvigorating our love nature, a short van ride takes us to our campsite where we set up our tents before digging into a delicious guide-prepared dinner. For the night owls among us, a crackling campfire provides heat and light for evening conversation and contemplation. Lunch and dinner included.

Hiking: 3 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +/- 710'; Van transfer: 3.5 hours

Day 2

Hike up the spectacular Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls

On our way to the trailhead this morning, we gaze out at Yosemite Valley’s iconic peaks and the towering walls that comprise this epic granite landscape beloved by John Muir, Ansel Adams, Royal Robbins and a host of other renowned explorers and adventurers. Today’s exhilarating hike up the Mist Trail climbs granite staircases built alongside the cascading Vernal and Nevada Falls, to the top of 600-foot-high Nevada Falls itself. On the descent, we follow in the footsteps of John Muir, hiking along his namesake trail and enjoying exceptional views of Half Dome, Mount Broderick and Liberty Cap. Returning to camp, we can kick back and catch up on some vacation reading or just hang with our new hiking buddies. After dinner, a good night’s sleep is only a few steps away in our large, comfortable tents. All meals included.

Hiking: 7.5 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +/- 3,800'; Van transfer: up to 1.5 hours

Day 3

Bid a fond farewell to Yosemite on a final hike to Sentinel Dome and Taft Point

Awaken to the first rays of sunshine and smell of freshly-brewed coffee before digging into a tasty hot breakfast – fuel for today’s adventure. For our grand finale, we’ve planned a double-header hike to Sentinel Dome (8,123’) and Taft Point (7,503’). This pair of stellar south rim viewpoints offer some of the best bird’s-eye panoramas of Yosemite Valley and the rugged high peaks of the Sierra Crest, stretching out towards the distant horizon. After a picnic lunch on trail, we return to our van and make a final photo stop at magnificent Glacier Point before setting out on the drive back to Fresno. Our adventure ends with a drop off in Fresno at approximately 6:30pm. Please do not schedule any departing flights from Fresno prior 8:30pm this evening. Breakfast and lunch included.

Hiking: 5 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +/-1,050'; Van transfer: 4 hours

Itinerary map for Yosemite Valley Hiking & Camping | Under 35

Gear List

This gear list has been created to help you choose the best equipment for the trip. Try to bring only what is necessary, as this will help you and the field staff. The weather and other conditions at the time of your arrival will dictate what clothing and equipment you will be required to use each day and what (if anything) can be left behind. It may be a necessary precaution that you bring certain items on the list, even if it is uncertain whether or not they will be needed.

Already booked this trip? Sign into your online traveler profile for a more detailed list of what you'll need.

REI members can shop for gently used gear online or at most REI stores. Members can also trade in pre-loved used gear online or at any REI store in exchange for REI gift card credit. Check out Re/Supply at REI to learn more.

Provided by REI

  • All Group Cooking Gear
  • Group First Aid Kit
  • Sleeping Pad
  • Tent(s)

What to pack

Contact Us

Feel free to give us a call at 1 (800) 622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales ( 1 (800) 426-4840 ) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out REI Expert Advice , which has great information to help you prepare for your trip.

Trip specifics may change over time. Reviews reflect the version of the trip that was active at the time the reviewer took it. Please review the itinerary as described above and call our team for any additional details.