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15 - 18 September 2024

$1,212

Trip Cost
Paid in instalments

3/5

Challenge Grade

$2,500

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

They might be fleeing war, persecution or gang violence. Perhaps their home and livelihood was washed away in a flood. There are more than 100 million people around the world who have been forced to flee their homes. But all people deserve to live safely and have access to life’s necessities.

The money you raise hiking with Church World Service in Yosemite will help us serve displaced populations, such as refugees, asylum seekers and unaccompanied children, by providing them with food, shelter, legal support, counselling, health care and other critical services so they can rebuild their lives. The funds will also support development programs that stabilize communities so that they can stay where they are, as well as helping communities recover from the devastation of natural disasters .

Everyone deserves to live in safety and you can help us provide a secure place to call home for the most vulnerable and overlooked people around the world.

How it works

Flexible bookings

Pay upfront or in flexible instalments.

Cancel more than 90 days before departure to receive refund options (excluding deposit).

For more details, see our FAQs.

Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 0: Arrive in Fresno

Day 0: Saturday 14th September, 2024: Pickup from Fresno Airport

Upon arrival in Fresno, you will be picked up from the airport and transferred to your hotel. Drop off must be to a hotel located in Mariposa, CA. (Accommodation for this night is not included). Please be sure to send us your arrival flight details and where you will be staying.

Day 1: Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Grove

Day 1: Sunday 15th September, 2024: Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Grove

This morning you will be picked from your hotel and transferred to Yosemite! First, we’ll meet our guide in Yosemite Valley, then we’ll head off for our first hike of the trip at the Happy Isles Trailhead. Here we’ll enjoy an outstanding view of Yosemite’s crown jewels, Vernal Falls, along the John Muir trail. While many of Yosemite’s hikes are centered on a final destination, this route features stunning views the whole way. Take in the incredible panorama that includes Upper Yosemite Falls across the Valley, to the phenomenal heights of Liberty Cap, Grizzly Peak, and Panorama Cliffs, Sentinel Dome, Glacier Point and even Half Dome soaring above our heads.

After our waterfall hike, we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch then head up into the high country. We’ll stop off for another short hike through the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias on the way to relish in the subtle power of these ancient trees. Once at camp, we’ll get settled and enjoy a wonderful outdoor dinner with views of Mono Lake and foothills of the Sierras as our backdrop.

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 4 miles

Meals: B L D

Day 2: Indian Arch to North Dome

Day 2: Monday 16th September, 2024: Indian Arch to North Dome

Today we will climb one of Yosemite Valley’s iconic granite domes, Half Dome’s northerly sibling, the spectacular North Dome. Our hike starts above the Valley at a quiet trailhead and heads south through a pristine Lodgepole Pine forest. After only a few miles, we will enjoy a rejuvenating break at Indian Arch, an arch shaped rock that provides breathtaking views of the mountains that surround us.

From Indian Arch we will descend onto the top of North Dome where we will enjoy a picnic lunch with out-of-this-world, 360-degree views of Yosemite Valley and the surrounding mountain peaks as our backdrop. After soaking up the views, we will complete our hike back to the trailhead, return to camp for showers, dinner, and a relaxing evening.

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 10.3 miles

Meals: B L D

Day 3: Tuolumne Meadows to Cathedral Lake

Day 3: Tuesday 17th September, 2024: Tuolumne Meadows to Cathedral Lake

Another unforgettable adventure today, as we embark on a hike to one of Yosemite’s most beautiful lakes – Cathedral Lake. Our hike begins in Tuolumne Meadows and quickly ascends into a lodgepole forest as we pass Cathedral Peak and crest a saddle before descending to Cathedral Lake. On the shores of the lake, we’ll dip our feet or go for a chilly but refreshing swim, enjoy a wonderful picnic lunch, and relish the world-famous views of one of the most picturesque features of Yosemite’s high country: Cathedral Peak reflected in the crystal waters of Cathedral Lake. Another feast of dinner awaits when we return back to camp.

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 8 miles

Meals: B L D

Day 4: Mount Hoffman Summit to May Lake

Day 4: Wednesday 18th September, 2024: Mount Hoffman Summit to May Lake

After a satisfying breakfast, we’ll attempt to summit a peak at the geographical center of Yosemite National Park. Our hike takes us uphill to May Lake, a charming sub-alpine lake framed by sheer granite cliffs. We’ll take a break at the lake before continuing up the flanks of Mount Hoffman. This summit involves only hiking but is an exciting ascent up a picturesque mountain peak. The real gem of today comes when we reach the summit of Mount Hoffman, which some people say offers the best views of Yosemite!

From its high perch, we will be looking down on Half Dome and Clouds Rest – a rare vantage point – and over to the bright granite peaks of the Cathedral Range. We’ll soak up the views over some lunch before heading down to May Lake and back to the trailhead. After our hike, we’ll enjoy one last scenic drive out of the high country and back to Yosemite Valley for the conclusion of our adventure.

If you’ve chosen to be transferred back to Fresno, you will be picked up and taken back to your hotel or Fresno airport.

Trekking distance: 5.6 miles

Meals: B L

Includes: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in campsite • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • Local guide • Entrance fees as per itinerary

Doesn’t include: Domestic Flights • Travel insurance (recommended) • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities

Why you'll love this adventure

Follow trails with incredible views of sites like El Capitan and Half Dome
See Grizzly Giant, a huge sequoia almost 65 meters tall
Hike to the top of one of the world’s tallest waterfalls
Raise vital funds for the Church World Service and make friends with like-minded people

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone CWS on 888-297-2767. We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Yosemite High Country Base Camp trek is a physical challenge, involving trekking approximately 28 miles over 4 days. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.

How many people will be on my adventure?

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 25 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

Church World Service has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $46 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Church World Service, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day. It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in comfortable campsites.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m traveling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re traveling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide and Team Leader on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalized coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined. By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m traveling with a friend, can we fundraise together?

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Will the funds raised go directly to Church World Service?

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to Church World Service. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired Adventures.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for Church World Service are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Payments, cancellations and refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?

The total cost to participate in this adventure is: US$1,212 (including a non-refundable $606 deposit).
In addition, you are also committing to raising $2,500 (per person) for Church World Service.

You have the opportunity to pay the travel cost in 4 installment of $303 over 4 months, or upfront.

Is the travel cost guaranteed?

We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation or lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit

www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.