Program Overview: The route will take us through a variety of environments and into the heart of Yosemite. This trip starts at the world-famous Glacier Point with views of Yosemite Valley, Vernal and Nevada Falls, and Yosemite’s backcountry. After taking in those views, we’ll put on our packs and hike about 4 miles to our first camp. Much of this hike will be along the Illilouette Creek, giving us an opportunity to explore the flora and fauna that inhabit this environment and to consider the watershed that delivers essential water to the San Joaquin Valley for farmers and their families. That evening, your naturalist will discuss topics related to the park as you gaze at the impressive forms of Mount Starr King and the Clark Range.
The next day, rise with the sun as the park comes to life! After enjoying breakfast, we’ll start a 5.5-mile day of hiking by swinging past Mount Starr King towards Little Yosemite Valley. Half Dome will rise above the horizon as we drop down to cross above Nevada Falls, where we’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch by the Merced River and marvel at the granite domes that surround us. In the afternoon, our hike will take us past The Liberty Cap and into Little Yosemite Valley and afford you a chance to swim in the Merced River before your dinner. That evening, enjoy a stargazing program from the comfort of your sleeping bag. Your naturalist will lead you on a trek through the galaxies. Let your legs rest while your mind wanders among the stars and planets above.
On the last day, just when you think it can’t get any better, it will! We’ll return to Glacier Point via the Panorama Trail, which will give us incomparable views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Sierra Point, and Yosemite Valley. A 5.5-mile hike will bring us back to Illilouette Creek, where we can enjoy Illilouette Falls as it drops 370 feet into Yosemite Valley. After eating and replenishing our water, we’ll tackle the last 2 miles back to Glacier Point.
Know Before You Go:
- Program dates: Thursday, August 7, evening meeting 6:30–8 pm. Start hike Friday, August 8 at 9 am and exit Sunday, August 10 by 4 pm.
- Program location: Starting at Glacier Point and backpacking to Little Yosemite Valley.
- What’s included: An evening meeting, a three-day backpack trip with guided instruction by two Yosemite Naturalists, park entry (as needed), a wilderness permit, bear canister rental (as needed), and shared tent camping before and after the trek (camping dates cannot be altered). There is no discount if you choose not to use the included gate pass or campsite.
- Camping dates: Participants can arrive on August 7 after 12 pm and must depart on August 8. After the backpack, participants can arrive on August 10 after 12 pm and depart on August 11 by 11 am. There are three shared campsites among all the participants. We guarantee tent camping only. If you choose to bring a recreational vehicle, we cannot guarantee you will have a parking spot. Please be prepared to tent camp. A picnic table, bear locker, and firepit are provided at each site. Campsites fit six people per site.
- Campground Location: Bridalveil Creek. Please note that if the campground is not open for some reason, then camping will be provided at the best alternative location available.
- Lodging: No lodging accommodations other than camping are available.
- Experience level: All levels welcome, must be physically fit to walk at elevation with a backpack.
What’s not included:
- Gear or meals during your program.
- Camping gear or meals in the shared campsites.
- Transportation.
View a suggested packing list, including gear rental options.
