Immerse yourself in the sheer beauty of Yosemite National Park, with natural beauty that must be seen to be believed, while supporting global disaster relief efforts with Shelterbox US. Make a difference, one step at a time.
Travel Dates
7-10 August 2026
Trekking Distance
28 miles
Challenge Grade
3/5
Fundraising Goal
Raise at least $3,500 to support ShelterBox's mission
Participation Cost
$2,860 (upfront or in instalments) covers travel, lodging, and trek experience
*Minimum numbers apply
Registration Fee
$150 $75 secures your spot and fundraising support
Early bird offer: sign up before 17 November 2025 and save $75 on your registration fee!
The Difference You'll Make
Join ShelterBox for an unforgettable four-day, 28-mile trek through Yosemite National Park - and take meaningful steps toward a world where no one is left without shelter. As part of the ShelterBox Adventurers program, you’ll hike for families who have lost everything to disaster and conflict, raising critical funds to help deliver emergency shelter and essential aid.
Your journey winds through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in North America: the thundering power of Vernal Falls, the ancient Giant Sequoias of Tuolumne Grove, the sweeping 360-degree views from North Dome, and the mirror-still waters of Cathedral Lake. You’ll even summit Mount Hoffman for one of the most remarkable panoramas in the park.
We ask each participant to raise $2,500 in support of ShelterBox’s life-saving mission. Every step you take brings shelter, safety, and hope to people facing unimaginable loss. This is more than a trek. It’s a chance to challenge yourself, connect with purpose, and become a beacon of resilience for families worldwide.
Take action with ShelterBox. Join us on this meaningful adventure and be part of something truly extraordinary - because every step forward brings us closer to a world where no one is left without shelter or hope.
How it works
Secure your place
Start Fundraising
Using the fundraising page we build for you, and book a call with your fundraising coach.
Meet the team
Meet like-minded travellers and hear from the charity about the difference you're making.
Your Adventure Begins
Set off on your adventure! Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.
Trip notes
Welcome 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
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 kilometres, 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: 10.25 miles
Meals: B L D
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
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.
Trekking distance: 5.5 miles
Meals: B L
Package Inclusions: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in campsites • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • English-speaking guide • Entrance fees as per itinerary
Package Exclusions: Airfares • Airport Transfers • Travel insurance (highly recommended) • Visas • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities
Fundraising for good
New to the wonderful world of fundraising, or worried you won't hit your fundraising goal? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. The Inspired Adventures team will support you with a personalised plan, regular coaching, and plenty of resources. From online campaigns to trivia nights, bake sales and creative ideas, we’ve got tried-and-tested tips to help you reach your goal.
Meet Lucy - your personal fundraising expert, who will be with you every step of your fundraising journey!
Sample Fundraising Plan
Online Direct Donations
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Send out personal emails to your network with a clear, specific ask. For example: “My goal is to have 50 people donate $20 each to my cause. Can you help by donating $20?”
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Use the Grassrootz fundraising platform to share your page on social media, copy your unique URL, and download your QR code in just one click, it’s that easy!
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Ask your family and friends to reach out to their networks and help spread the word.
Sausage Sizzle
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Host a BBQ at your local Bunnings, Woolworths, sports club, or workplace.
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Advertise in your local newspaper and invite everyone you know to come along.
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Offer vegetarian or gluten-free options to maximise your sales.
Why you'll love this adventure
- Over four days, intimately explore the majesty of Yosemite National Park.
- Witness stunning waterfalls, vistas, and massive sequoia trees.
- Discover large granite-rock formations carved by glacials.
- Trek knowing that you’re providing essential tools to help rebuild lives after disaster.
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventures.com.au
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 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 - 20 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.
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 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.
Do I have to carry my own bag?
On most adventures, you'll only need to carry a day bag with essentials for your day of activities. Your luggage/big backpacks will either stay at your accommodation, be transferred to your next accommodation, or will be carried by porters.
Who is Inspired Adventures?
ShelterBox USA has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 20 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $32 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and ShelterBox USA, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.
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.
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in comfortable campsites. The campground will have showers, flush toilets, a general store, and WiFi connectively. There is a communal area with picnic tables and fire pit (subject to weather permittance). All tents, sleeping pads, pillows and blankets, camp chairs, and camping equipment for the group is provided.
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 travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.
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 personalised 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 travelling 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.
How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?
The total cost to participate in this adventure is USD $3,010 which is inclusive of:
- Registration fee: $150 (non-refundable)
- Travel cost: $2,860 (includes a $600 non-refundable travel deposit)
In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,500 (per person) for ShelterBox USA.
What happens if I need to cancel?
If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.
- Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund (less card transaction fees).
- Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $600 deposit, $150 registration fee and card transaction fees.
- Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.
Do I need to have insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and 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.
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 are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.
Take this new and exciting corporate social responsibility initiative and see your staff and brand take on this adventure as a team.
An Inspired Adventure with ShelterBox USA offers the following benefits:
- Employee engagement opportunities to attract and retain staff
- Long-term partnership with ShelterBox USA and increased community engagement
- Improved employee wellness through the impact of paying it forward
- Increased brand value through unique PR opportunities
- Improved workplace mental and physical health with a focus on fitness and training for the challenge
- Increased visibility through an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility
- Team building opportunities across departments through the achievement of a common goal
- Great networking opportunities
Find out more by downloading our corporate sponsorship pack HERE.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Testimonials
Find Out More
Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.