Program Overview: Explore Cathedral Lake on this easy/moderate three-day backpack trip! Cathedral Lake, a sparkling alpine lake set at over 9,000 feet, is framed by the dramatic granite spire of Cathedral Peak. Glacially carved and ringed with meadows, polished granite, and stands of whitebark pine, the lake offers a serene base camp with unforgettable views. The second day will be spent exploring the surrounding alpine terrain on a day hike, discovering more high-country vistas. On the third day, we’ll pack up and hike out the same way we came in. As night falls, you’ll also have the chance to connect with the wilderness above — learning constellations, orienting yourself using the stars, and enjoying pristine night skies far from any light pollution. It’s the perfect summer backpacking trip to experience the magic of Yosemite’s backcountry.
Know Before You Go:
- Program date: Evening meeting on Thursday, August 27, from 6:30–8 pm. Backpacking trip runs Friday, August 28, through Sunday, August 30, 8:30 am–4 pm each day.
- Program location: Cathedral Lake
- What’s Included
- Guided instruction with a Yosemite Conservancy Naturalist Guide
- Park entry pass (valid for program dates only)
- Wilderness Permit
- Shared front-country tent camping before and after the trek (camping dates cannot be altered)
- No discount is available if you choose not to use the gate pass or campsite.
- Camping Information: Before the backpack, participants can arrive to camp on Thursday, August 27, after 12 pm and must depart on Friday, August 28. After the backpack, participants can arrive to camp after 12 pm on Sunday, August 30, and must depart on Monday, August 31, by 11 am. Two shared campsites between participants, each with space for 4–5 tents and equipped with a picnic table, bear locker, and fire pit.
- Camping Location: Tuolumne Meadows
- Important Notes: Due to the shared nature of the campsites, we cannot accommodate RVs, campers, or car camping. If you would like a private campsite, have an RV/camper, or plan to sleep in your car, you’ll need to make your own reservation. Please note that camping is reserved for program participants only.
- Hiking is an integral part of this course, so good physical condition is required. Participants must be able to meet the physical demands of the trip as outlined in the itinerary. This includes carrying a backpack weighing 25–50+ pounds (or at least 25% of body weight), traveling over uneven, rocky, sandy, wet, or unstable terrain for the mileage and at the elevation listed. These requirements are in place for your safety and the safety of the group. If you have questions about whether a course is a good fit, please contact our office at 209-379-2647 — we’re happy to help.
What’s Not Included
- Gear or meals during your program
- Camping gear or meals in the shared campsites
- Transportation
Experience Level: Intermediate
