Shelterbox US - Yosemite 2026 | Inspired Adventures

Travel Dates

7-10 August 2026

Trekking Distance

28 miles

Challenge Grade

3/5

Fundraising Goal

Raise at least $2,500 to support ShelterBox's mission

Participation Cost

$2,935 covers travel, lodging, and trek experience

Registration Fee

$150 secures your spot and fundraising support

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

Register by clicking the "Register now" button, and choose your payment plan for the travel cost. For more details, see our FAQs.

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

Day 1, Friday, 7 August 2026: Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Grove

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

Day 2, Saturday, 8 August 2026: 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 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

Day 3, Sunday, 9 August 2026: 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, Monday, 10 August 2026: 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.

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 Sam - your personal fundraising expert, who will be with you every step of your fundraising journey!

Sample Fundraising Plan

$1,000 > $2,000 > $3,000 > A few extras

$1,000 >

Online Direct Donations

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?”
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!
Ask your family and friends to reach out to their networks and help spread the word.

Sausage Sizzle

Host a BBQ at your local Bunnings, Woolworths, sports club, or workplace.
Advertise in your local newspaper and invite everyone you know to come along.
Offer vegetarian or gluten-free options to maximise your sales.

$2,000 >

Trivia night

Reach out to a local pub, club, community centre or hotel to host a trivia night.
Charge for entry, or offer group discounts to encourage attendance.
Prepare a fun and varied set of questions, or choose a themed night (e.g. 90s, movies, travel).
Organise prizes for winners!

Morning or Afternoon Tea

Host at home, work, or a local community venue.
Charge a ticket price that covers costs and supports your fundraising goal (e.g. $15–$20 per person).
Ask friends, family, or local businesses to donate baked goods or drinks to help reduce costs.

$3,000 >

Workplace Donations

Ask your employer if they’d be willing to support your challenge with a one-off donation or a sponsorship.
Many workplaces have CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) or community giving programs - check if yours does and see if they can support your fundraising.
Get your workplace involved through internal promotions, posters in the office, or see if they can share your fundraising challenge in their newsletter or on their website to boost visibility.

Auction or Raffle

Reach out to local businesses, friends and family, or corporations for prize donations.
Run it online or as part of an in-person event.
Make it easy for people to purchase tickets by offering payment options.
Be mindful of local raffle permit requirements depending on your state or territory.

A few extras

A Few Extras

Garage Sale: Sell unused items at a garage sale or on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and donate the proceeds.
Virtual Fitness Challenge: Get active! Ask for donations based on reps or distance (e.g. $2 per push-up or $5 per km).
Donation Boxes: Place collection tins in local cafés, gyms, or shops to encourage community support.
Guess-the-number jars: Jars of jelly beans or lollies are a great way to engage office staff, schools or community centres.

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) or phone (1300 905 188). 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 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.

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. 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.

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 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.

Payments, cancellations and refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?

The total cost to participate in this adventure is USD $3,085 which is inclusive of:

Registration fee: $150 (non-refundable)
Travel cost: $2,935 (includes a $600 non-refundable travel deposit)

In addition, you are also committing to raising $2,500 (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.

Travel insurance

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.

Corporate sponsorship

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

“This was a wonderful experience and I'm so glad to have been able to do it with my daughter and granddaughter and to raise awareness and support to ShelterBox.”

– Frances, Shelterbox USA, Yosemite 2023

"This was a wonderful trip as well as a fun way to raise funds for an organization I care deeply about."

– Jenny, Church World Service, Yosemite 2024

Find Out More

Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.