Yosemite Backpacking – Classic Yosemite
Reaching Great Heights
-
- Activity Level: 3-4
- Days: 4
- Group Size: 4-12
- Member price: from $999
- Non-member price: from $1,074
Overview
For those, like John Muir, who believe time spent in nature is the pathway to a new way of life, majestic Yosemite National Park is the perfect destination. Breathe deeply amidst the Jeffrey pines, wiggle toes in crisp mountain streams and take in the colors of a Sierra sunrise as we backpack through this beautiful area.
Our route along Yosemite Creek takes advantage of running snowmelt, which feeds into crystal clear mountain creeks. Take a refreshing dip to wash away the miles-long journey. Trade our heavy packs for daypacks on a hike to the top of Eagle Peak, considered by John Muir to be the most comprehensive of all Yosemite views from the north rim of the valley. Along the journey, our expert guides will help hone our backpacking skills while teaching us the essentials of packing light and the history of all that surrounds us.
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 explore Tuolumne Meadows and beyond on our High Country backpacking adventure.
Trip highlights
- Hike to America’s tallest waterfall on a 4-day backpacking trip in Yosemite
- Stand atop Eagle Peak and enjoy one of John Muir's favorite views of Yosemite
- Look down 2,500' from the top of Yosemite Falls and marvel at the High Sierra
Activities
- Backpacking
Accommodations
Backpackers campground, 1 night; Backcountry camping, 2 nights
Itinerary
This trip begins in Yosemite National Park, California. Today you will meet your guides and the other group members at the Backpackers' Campground, located at the far end of The North Pines Campground in Yosemite Valley. Group members must arrive at camp by 4:30pm for a trip orientation, gear check and dinner. Please allow yourself ample time as traffic can sometimes be an issue in the valley. Dinner included.
We enjoy breakfast in camp before dividing up group gear, packing up our bags, and caravanning in our own personal vehicles, about 38 miles (45 minutes to an hour). We'll set a comfortable pace as we hike through the coniferous forest of Jeffrey and western white Pines, keeping a sharp eye out for birds like the mountain chickadee or Clark's nutcracker. This is typically a full first day of backpacking, with time along the way for lunch and natural interpretation. Today's trail runs beside the rushing waters of Yosemite Creek, traveling just below the snowline. We'll stop for lunch along our route, which will be between 5-7 miles with an elevation loss of around 700 feet. A refreshing dip in the creek can wash away the miles and after dinner, we'll enjoy some camaraderie around the campfire. All meals and snacks provided.
Mileage: 5-7 miles; 700' elevation loss
After breakfast, we continue exploring the Yosemite backcountry. Today, we'll load up only our daypacks and set out for the rim of Yosemite Valley to enjoy the panoramic view from Eagle Peak, where we will experience Clouds Rest, Half Dome and other iconic features of the park face to face. John Muir considered this view to be "the most comprehensive of all the views" from the north rim of the valley. If there's time and desire, we will head over to the top of Yosemite Falls, 2,425' above the valley floor below. There should be time for a relaxing evening swim before dinner, and our final sleep under the Sierra stars will prepare us for the next day's hike back to civilization. All meals provided.
Mileage: 6-8 miles; 1,000' elevation gain/loss
On our final day, we'll break camp after breakfast and make our way out of the backcountry retracing our path travelling uphill along Yosemite Creek, a different perspective now after our nights out in the clean mountain air. We plan to arrive back at our vehicles by 4pm but there is no guarantee that we'll make it by then, so those flying out of Fresno should plan no flights before 9:30pm and those flying out of Oakland should plan no flights home before 10:30pm. Breakfast, snacks and lunch included.
Mileage: 5-7 miles; 700' elevation gain
Note on Itinerary
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. There are numerous beautiful and suitable routes available to our guides, and these routes may be utilized instead of those published in this itinerary when circumstances or conditions warrant. This trip is operated rain or shine.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
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.
Not Included
Transportation; park entrance fees where required, insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages; soft drinks; guide gratuities and items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Cancellation and Transfer Policy
Full payment is due at sign up, fully refundable up to 30 days prior to departure.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
30+ days prior to departure = $0
15 to 29 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:
15+ days prior to departure = $0
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Single Accommodations
If you are traveling alone we will assign you a roommate of the same gender if possible. A limited number of single accommodations are available, and are assigned only as necessary. For more details about traveling solo, see our Solo Travelers page.
Weather
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.
General Information
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. Additional trip information will be provided 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.
Meet your guides
Gary E.
Gary never tires of sitting on top of Half Dome or swimming in a Yosemite lake. He guides in order to share his passion for the outdoors with others. An REI guide since 2003, he is certified as a Wilderness First Responder and in Leave No Trace principles.
Meet your guides
Tyler G.
This wilderness- and mountain-lover lives to share the magic with others. He was an instructor with REI Outdoor School and has been an REI guide since 2014. Tyler is a Wilderness First Responder and is certified in Leave No Trace principles.
Adventure Expert
Andy
Backpacking along Yosemite Creek to Yosemite Falls instills a deep appreciation for the backcountry of this magnificent park. We sit perched atop the Valley at Muir's favorite viewpoint and sleep in an epic campsite for 2 nights.
Departure dates
Departure dates available soon.
Let us know if you want to be contacted when dates become available.
Notify meQuestions?
You can reach us by phone at 1-800-622-2236
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time.
Gear list
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.
Provided by REI
- All Group Cooking Gear
- Bear Canister
- Group First Aid Kit
- Stoves and Fuel
- Tent(s)
- Water Filter
Required
- Backpacking Pack (Extended, 70+L)
- Base Layer Tops and Bottoms (Lightweight, Synthetic or Wool)
- Fleece/Wool Hat
- Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
- Hiking Boots
- Hiking Pants (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
- Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool)
- Insulated Jacket and/or Vest
- Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
- Pack Rain Cover
- Personal Bathroom Kit: Toilet Paper, Ziplock Bags, Personal Wipes, Hand Cleaner
- Prescription Medications
- Rain Jacket (Hooded, Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
- Rain Pants (Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
- Sleeping Bag (15°-29°, Lightweight, Compressible)
- Sleeping Pad
- Spork, Bowl and Mug
- Water Bottles (Three 1-Quart) or Hydration System Plus One 1-Quart Water Bottle
- Whistle
Recommended
- Bandana
- Day Pack (Lightweight, Compressible)
- Fleece/Wool Gloves
- Gaiters (Low)
- Head Net
- Insect Repellant
- Large Plastic Garbage Bag
- Sun Block and Lip Balm (Small)
- Sun Hat
- Sunglasses and Accessories
- Tee Shirts (Synthetic)
- Toiletries
- Trekking Poles
- Trowel
- Underwear
Optional
- Camera and Accessories
- Camp Towel
- Casual Shoes for Camp
- Compass
- Ear Plugs
- Energy Snacks and Drink Mixes
- Hiking Shorts (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
- Liner Socks (Synthetic)
- Maps
- Personal First Aid Kit/Medications (Lightweight)
- Reading and Writing Materials
- Sleeping Bag Liner
- Small Binoculars
- Small Multitool
- Swimwear
- Water Shoes (No Flip-Flops)
Travel Documents
- Final Bulletin (Emailed Prior to Departure Date)
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 www.rei.com/learn. The Expert Advice section on our "Learn" page has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
.Itinerary
Print Itinerary Expand all days
This trip begins in Yosemite National Park, California. Today you will meet your guides and the other group members at the Backpackers' Campground, located at the far end of The North Pines Campground in Yosemite Valley. Group members must arrive at camp by 4:30pm for a trip orientation, gear check and dinner. Please allow yourself ample time as traffic can sometimes be an issue in the valley. Dinner included.
We enjoy breakfast in camp before dividing up group gear, packing up our bags, and caravanning in our own personal vehicles, about 38 miles (45 minutes to an hour). We'll set a comfortable pace as we hike through the coniferous forest of Jeffrey and western white Pines, keeping a sharp eye out for birds like the mountain chickadee or Clark's nutcracker. This is typically a full first day of backpacking, with time along the way for lunch and natural interpretation. Today's trail runs beside the rushing waters of Yosemite Creek, traveling just below the snowline. We'll stop for lunch along our route, which will be between 5-7 miles with an elevation loss of around 700 feet. A refreshing dip in the creek can wash away the miles and after dinner, we'll enjoy some camaraderie around the campfire. All meals and snacks provided.
Mileage: 5-7 miles; 700' elevation loss
After breakfast, we continue exploring the Yosemite backcountry. Today, we'll load up only our daypacks and set out for the rim of Yosemite Valley to enjoy the panoramic view from Eagle Peak, where we will experience Clouds Rest, Half Dome and other iconic features of the park face to face. John Muir considered this view to be "the most comprehensive of all the views" from the north rim of the valley. If there's time and desire, we will head over to the top of Yosemite Falls, 2,425' above the valley floor below. There should be time for a relaxing evening swim before dinner, and our final sleep under the Sierra stars will prepare us for the next day's hike back to civilization. All meals provided.
Mileage: 6-8 miles; 1,000' elevation gain/loss
On our final day, we'll break camp after breakfast and make our way out of the backcountry retracing our path travelling uphill along Yosemite Creek, a different perspective now after our nights out in the clean mountain air. We plan to arrive back at our vehicles by 4pm but there is no guarantee that we'll make it by then, so those flying out of Fresno should plan no flights before 9:30pm and those flying out of Oakland should plan no flights home before 10:30pm. Breakfast, snacks and lunch included.
Mileage: 5-7 miles; 700' elevation gain
Note on Itinerary
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. There are numerous beautiful and suitable routes available to our guides, and these routes may be utilized instead of those published in this itinerary when circumstances or conditions warrant. This trip is operated rain or shine.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
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.
Not Included
Transportation; park entrance fees where required, insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages; soft drinks; guide gratuities and items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Cancellation and Transfer Policy
Full payment is due at sign up, fully refundable up to 30 days prior to departure.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
30+ days prior to departure = $0
15 to 29 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:
15+ days prior to departure = $0
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Single Accommodations
If you are traveling alone we will assign you a roommate of the same gender if possible. A limited number of single accommodations are available, and are assigned only as necessary. For more details about traveling solo, see our Solo Travelers page.
Weather
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.
General Information
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. Additional trip information will be provided 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.
Meet your guides
Gary E.
Gary never tires of sitting on top of Half Dome or swimming in a Yosemite lake. He guides in order to share his passion for the outdoors with others. An REI guide since 2003, he is certified as a Wilderness First Responder and in Leave No Trace principles.
Meet your guides
Tyler G.
This wilderness- and mountain-lover lives to share the magic with others. He was an instructor with REI Outdoor School and has been an REI guide since 2014. Tyler is a Wilderness First Responder and is certified in Leave No Trace principles.
Adventure Expert
Andy
Backpacking along Yosemite Creek to Yosemite Falls instills a deep appreciation for the backcountry of this magnificent park. We sit perched atop the Valley at Muir's favorite viewpoint and sleep in an epic campsite for 2 nights.