Program Overview: Explore Cathedral Lake on this moderate three-day backpacking 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.
Backpacking 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 30-50 pounds, 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.
Know Before You Go:
- Program date: Evening meeting on Thursday, July 1, from 6:30–8 pm. Backpacking trip runs Friday, July 2, through Sunday, July 4, 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
- Acclimation day on Thursday, July 1, to explore on your own and adjust to the elevation before the evening meeting
- Shared frontcountry 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 trip, participants may arrive to camp on Wednesday, June 30, after 12 pm; enjoy an acclimation day on Thursday, July 1 to explore on your own and adjust to the elevation before the evening meeting; and must depart on Friday, July 2. After the backpack trip, participants may camp from Sunday, July 4, after 12 pm through Monday, July 5, at 11 am. Campsites are shared between all participants with a picnic table, bear locker, and fire pit. Within two weeks of registration, select “Camping” or “Not Camping” in your online portal to reserve your spot in a shared campsite. Access your portal through your confirmation email, and check your spam folder if needed.
- 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.
What’s Not Included
- Gear or meals during your program
- Camping gear or meals in the shared campsites
- Transportation
Need gear? See gear rental options included in the packing list.
Experience Level: Intermediate
