Yosemite High Country
California, USA
We give you the best of both sides of Yosemite – phenomenal hikes in Yosemite Valley as well as up in the Park’s stunning Tuolumne Meadows.
Trip duration:
4 days
Challenge duration:
4 days
Challenge grade:
3/5
Departure months:
August
Accommodation:
Camping
Why you'll love this adventure
- Spend four days intimately exploring the majesty of Yosemite National Park, from the valley to the meadows
- Camp amongst clear-blue lakes and subalpine parklands, seeing parts of the park often missed by tourists
- Discover epically large waterfalls and glacial rock formations
- Raise vital funds for your chosen cause and make friends with like-minded people when you travel for good
Explore a world-famous granite landscape
Over four days, experience the best of Yosemite National Park.
On this adventure, explore Yosemite Valley’s world-famous granite features, like Half Dome and El Capitan, as well as its amazing waterfalls and incredible glacial history. You will also enjoy plenty of time in the cooler, quieter high country around Tuolumne Meadows, hiking through subalpine parklands, past beautiful clear-blue lakes and to the summits of some of the Park’s “cathedral” peaks!
We’ll set up our base camp on the Eastern “quiet side” of Yosemite, at a private campground with views of Mono Lake. Each day after a hearty breakfast we’ll drive along Yosemite’s Tioga Pass and head into the park for unforgettable days of hiking on a diversity of hand-picked trails.
Trip notes
Day 1: John Muir Trail
Our first Yosemite hike begins at the Happy Isles trailhead with an outstanding hike to view one 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. We’ll enjoy a panorama that includes Upper Yosemite Falls across the Valley, to the phenomenal granite heights of Liberty Cap, Grizzly Peak, the Panorama Cliffs, Sentinel Dome, Glacier Point and even Half Dome soaring above our heads.
After our waterfall hike we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and then begin our shuttle up into the high country. We’ll stop and enjoy a short hike through the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias on the way to relish in the subtle power of these ancient trees. After the short hike, we will continue on our way toward our camp, just outside of Yosemite National Park. 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
Transfer Time: 3 hours
Trekking distance: 6.5km
Meals: B L D
Day 2: 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 normally 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 down 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 snapping lots of photos and soaking up the views, we will complete our hike back to the trailhead, then return to camp for showers, evening cuisine, and another relaxing evening.
Accommodation: Camping
Transfer Time: 3 hours
Trekking distance: 16.5km
Meals: B L D
Day 3: Cathedral Lake
Today is an unforgettable adventure 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 and/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 a dinner and relaxing evening await us back at camp.
Accommodation: Camping
Transfer Time: 2 hours
Trekking distance: 13km
Meals: B L D
Day 4: May Lake - Mount Hoffman
Today, 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 view of any in 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 snap some pictures and soak up the views over a picnic lunch before heading back down to May Lake and back to the trailhead.
After our hike we’ll enjoy one last scenic drive out of the high country back to Yosemite Valley for the conclusion of our adventure.
Accommodation: Camping
Transfer Time: 2 hours
Trekking distance: 13km
Meals: B L
Day 1: John Muir Trail
Our first Yosemite hike begins at the Happy Isles trailhead with an outstanding hike to view one 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. We’ll enjoy a panorama that includes Upper Yosemite Falls across the Valley, to the phenomenal granite heights of Liberty Cap, Grizzly Peak, the Panorama Cliffs, Sentinel Dome, Glacier Point and even Half Dome soaring above our heads.
After our waterfall hike we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and then begin our shuttle up into the high country. We’ll stop and enjoy a short hike through the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias on the way to relish in the subtle power of these ancient trees. After the short hike, we will continue on our way toward our camp, just outside of Yosemite National Park. 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
Transfer Time: 3 hours
Trekking distance: 6.5km
Meals: B L D
Day 2: 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 normally 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 down 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 snapping lots of photos and soaking up the views, we will complete our hike back to the trailhead, then return to camp for showers, evening cuisine, and another relaxing evening.
Accommodation: Camping
Transfer Time: 3 hours
Trekking distance: 16.5km
Meals: B L D
Day 3: Cathedral Lake
Today is an unforgettable adventure 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 and/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 a dinner and relaxing evening await us back at camp.
Accommodation: Camping
Transfer Time: 2 hours
Trekking distance: 13km
Meals: B L D
Day 4: May Lake - Mount Hoffman
Today, 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 view of any in 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 snap some pictures and soak up the views over a picnic lunch before heading back down to May Lake and back to the trailhead.
After our hike we’ll enjoy one last scenic drive out of the high country back to Yosemite Valley for the conclusion of our adventure.
Accommodation: Camping
Transfer Time: 2 hours
Trekking distance: 13km
Meals: B L
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au
About the adventure
How challenging is this adventure?
Your adventure is ranked a moderate 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 trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge.
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.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
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 16–80+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
Fitness and training
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
In addition to your physical training, it’s important to be mentally prepared for the challenge. You might encounter setbacks and difficult periods during the trek, but remind yourself that many people have achieved this feat before you, and you can do it too. Maintain a positive attitude, and remember your guide will be there to encourage and inspire you all the way!
Accommodation
What is the accommodation like?
You will be camping at Mono Vista RV Park, a family owned park at the Eastern Gateway to. Yosemite National Park. The tents are spacious and include comfortable sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and camp pillows.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. When in twin share, you will be paired with a teammate(s) of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms may be available on some evenings at additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and where possible, we will pair you together.
What to expect
What is the food like?
You will be served a diversity of tasty meals packed full of critical carbohydrates, proteins and fats. These tend to be foods that travel well in the outdoors – rice, pastas, lentils, beans, couscous, packaged meats, nuts, breads, oatmeal, granola, and more.
For optimal taste and energy, all meals are supplemented with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables (fresh and dried). In addition, you will be provided with an assortment of trail mix, snacks, and dried fruits to eat at your own discretion.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will do our best to arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please note in the rural parts of this itinerary, there may be limited choices for those with dietary requirements.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
The mobile phone reception/service will most likely be unreliable but don’t worry it is all part of the experience. The National Park Service does suggest Verizon has the widest coverage.
Will I have access to electricity?
Access to electricity is limited. We recommend bringing along a portable recharging device, some of which can be recharged using solar energy. Wifi is also not available.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
You need to bring your main piece of luggage as well as a small to medium daypack for hiking walks (20-25 litres). Your main luggage/bag will be transferred for you to the next destination while you are hiking.
You will need to pack good walking shoes, a hat, some sunscreen, and a daypack. We strongly recommend bringing a pair of walking poles. Please note, these cannot be obtained locally.
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. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
Costs and payments
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation
- Local guide
- Meals as per itinerary
- Activities as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance (highly recommended for US residents, compulsory for non-US residents)
- Visa, if required
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Are the travel costs subject to change?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
How much spending money do I need?
This adventure is mostly all inclusive with transportation, entry fees, campsites, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, trekking poles, daypacks, all meals, hikes, and guides being provided. We recommend bringing some spending money for souvenirs, beverages, and guide gratuity.
Is it customary to tip?
It is customary to tip in the USA. The hospitality industry relies on tipping due to the low minimum wage. You will notice servers at restaurants are generally more friendly, knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile for customers. We recommend tipping 15-20%.
YOUR LOCAL GUIDE: You may consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline US$10-20 per person per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your leader on your trip. You will only need to budget for one tip, as the guides will be able to determine a fair split amongst themselves. Tipping is always appreciated.
Travel insurance and visas
Do I need to have insurance?
US Citizens: Travel insurance is highly recommended for US citizens
Australian Citizens: Travel insurance is compulsory 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.
Do I need a visa to travel to USA?
Australian and New Zealand passport holders are required to obtain an ESTA (Visa Waiver) for travel to the US for less than 90 days. See Smartraveller for the most current information. If you are travelling on a different passport or for further information, please contact the relevant embassy.
About California
What weather can I expect?
Being a high mountain environment, the Sierra Nevada Mountains are prone to sudden temperature and weather shifts. This is an exciting aspect of being in the mountains. In September and October temperatures can range from minimum 3 degrees to maximum 27 degrees.
About the adventure
How challenging is this adventure?
Your adventure is ranked a moderate 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 trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. It is essential that you prepare for this challenge.
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.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
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 16–80+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
Fitness and training
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
In addition to your physical training, it’s important to be mentally prepared for the challenge. You might encounter setbacks and difficult periods during the trek, but remind yourself that many people have achieved this feat before you, and you can do it too. Maintain a positive attitude, and remember your guide will be there to encourage and inspire you all the way!
Accommodation
What is the accommodation like?
You will be camping at Mono Vista RV Park, a family owned park at the Eastern Gateway to. Yosemite National Park. The tents are spacious and include comfortable sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and camp pillows.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. When in twin share, you will be paired with a teammate(s) of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms may be available on some evenings at additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and where possible, we will pair you together.
What to expect
What is the food like?
You will be served a diversity of tasty meals packed full of critical carbohydrates, proteins and fats. These tend to be foods that travel well in the outdoors – rice, pastas, lentils, beans, couscous, packaged meats, nuts, breads, oatmeal, granola, and more.
For optimal taste and energy, all meals are supplemented with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables (fresh and dried). In addition, you will be provided with an assortment of trail mix, snacks, and dried fruits to eat at your own discretion.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will do our best to arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please note in the rural parts of this itinerary, there may be limited choices for those with dietary requirements.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
The mobile phone reception/service will most likely be unreliable but don’t worry it is all part of the experience. The National Park Service does suggest Verizon has the widest coverage.
Will I have access to electricity?
Access to electricity is limited. We recommend bringing along a portable recharging device, some of which can be recharged using solar energy. Wifi is also not available.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
You need to bring your main piece of luggage as well as a small to medium daypack for hiking walks (20-25 litres). Your main luggage/bag will be transferred for you to the next destination while you are hiking.
You will need to pack good walking shoes, a hat, some sunscreen, and a daypack. We strongly recommend bringing a pair of walking poles. Please note, these cannot be obtained locally.
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. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
Costs and payments
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation
- Local guide
- Meals as per itinerary
- Activities as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance (highly recommended for US residents, compulsory for non-US residents)
- Visa, if required
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Are the travel costs subject to change?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
How much spending money do I need?
This adventure is mostly all inclusive with transportation, entry fees, campsites, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, trekking poles, daypacks, all meals, hikes, and guides being provided. We recommend bringing some spending money for souvenirs, beverages, and guide gratuity.
Is it customary to tip?
It is customary to tip in the USA. The hospitality industry relies on tipping due to the low minimum wage. You will notice servers at restaurants are generally more friendly, knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile for customers. We recommend tipping 15-20%.
YOUR LOCAL GUIDE: You may consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline US$10-20 per person per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your leader on your trip. You will only need to budget for one tip, as the guides will be able to determine a fair split amongst themselves. Tipping is always appreciated.
Travel insurance and visas
Do I need to have insurance?
US Citizens: Travel insurance is highly recommended for US citizens
Australian Citizens: Travel insurance is compulsory 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.
Do I need a visa to travel to USA?
Australian and New Zealand passport holders are required to obtain an ESTA (Visa Waiver) for travel to the US for less than 90 days. See Smartraveller for the most current information. If you are travelling on a different passport or for further information, please contact the relevant embassy.
About California
What weather can I expect?
Being a high mountain environment, the Sierra Nevada Mountains are prone to sudden temperature and weather shifts. This is an exciting aspect of being in the mountains. In September and October temperatures can range from minimum 3 degrees to maximum 27 degrees.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Responsible Travel
Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.
Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral.
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good
Upcoming adventures
Church World Service – Yosemite Trek
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Enquire today about an itinerary for your organisation.
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We’re a certified B Corp, committed to using business as a force for good.