Tuolumne Meadows to Half Dome

Tuolumne Meadows to Half Dome Backpacking Tour

Yosemite National Park

Trip Highlights:

Tuolumne Meadows

Suummit Half Dome

Alpine Lakes & Meadows

Granite Peaks & Domes

Merced Lake

Famous Mist Trail

Traveling from Tuolumne Meadows in the Yosemite High Country, over passes and past high-alpine meadows and lakes, with a final destination of Half Dome before descending the famous Mist Trail back into Yosemite Valley, this guided tour offers one of the most comprehensive Yosemite experiences. From Tuolumne Meadows, you’ll climb nearly 1,500’ to Tuolumne Pass at 10,000 feet for stunning alpine vistas of the rugged Sierra Nevada backcountry. Meander through pristine alpine meadows and past massive granite domes. Follow the headwaters of the Merced River as you hike past high alpine lakes and old-growth forests. This trip ends with the last night in Little Yosemite Valley, offering the option to summit Half Dome either that evening for sunset or the following morning for sunrise. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and experience some of Yosemite’s most spectacular backcountry scenery, this multiday Half-Dome guided tour is for you!

Mileage & Difficulty

35 Miles

(Map and Elevation)

Strenuous

Length

5 Days

Price

$2,085

Per Person

Departure Info

Curry Village Shuttle Stop #14

4 p.m.

Check Availability

48-Hour Risk-Free Booking

You will receive a full refund if you cancel within 48 hours of the original booking date.

Lifetime Credit Policy

Book with confidence knowing you can cancel for any reason up to 30 days before your trip date and receive a transferable lifetime credit that is good for use on any of our programs.

Free Date Changes

Not sure if your current trip dates work? Rest assured, you can change your trip date as many times as needed, provided you do so at least 30 days before the current and new trip dates.

All dates remain tentative until confirmed 23-24 weeks in advance.

We are now fully permitted through August 22, 2026 departures.

See HERE for more info.

Yosemite 2025 Update: The National Park Service was given the green light for Yosemite to hire all needed seasonal employees for the summer 2025 season. We do expect to be able to run all our programs as planned. Should reservations be required, participation in Lasting Adventures programs, trips, and/or tours includes entry when reservations are needed

2026 Departure Dates by Month

All dates remain tentative until permitted 23-24 weeks in advance. Please refrain from making travel arrangements outside of this timeline. We will contact you if we are unsuccessful in obtaining your dates. Feel free to contact us if you would like to confirm.

Tuolumne Meadows to Half Dome Backpacking Trip

For a detailed map with elevation profile of the tentative itinerary, click here: Map.

Day 1

Meet your guide at 4 p.m. in Curry Village. Get acquainted with the group and with gear. If time allows before dinner, explore some of the Valley’s iconic features. Camping in the Yosemite Valley Backpackers Campsite.

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: ~0.5 mi / +0′, -0′

Day 2

After breakfast and packing up the campsite, our group will return to Curry Village for our transfer to Tuolumne Meadows by 8 a.m. We will depart Tuolumne Meadows via the John Muir & Pacific Crest Trails, but quickly turn onto the Rafferty Creek Trail. This is a steady uphill hike into high alpine meadows. Our goal this day is to go 7 miles to either Boothe Lake (9,845′) or 8 miles to Vogelsang High Sierra Camp (10,130′) for the night.

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 8 mi / +1671′, -149′

Day 3

Today we will drop in elevation to Merced Lake (7,213′). We will hike a total of 9.25 miles (mostly downhill) as we follow Fletcher Creek, the headwaters of the Merced River, to the Merced Lake area. At Merced Lake, you’ll have the opportunity to relax and cool off among the cascades that flow into the lake.

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 9.25 mi / +366′, -3277′

Day 4

After a hearty breakfast, we will leave Merced Lake as we follow the Merced River through the “Lost Valley”, a glacial and river-cut valley to the east of Half Dome. This trail is mostly downhill and flat, passing incredible backcountry waterfalls and cascades. You’ll be able to experience lush areas filled with wildflowers and babbling creeks as you trek through some of the park’s most pristine wilderness.

Today’s Mileage/Elevation (without Half dome): 8.65 mi / +347′, -1454′

Half Dome

Half Dome will be completed either in the afternoon/evening on Day 4 to catch the sunset or the following morning with an alpine start to catch the sunrise. This is a strenuous uphill of 3.5 miles to the summit at 8,846′. (This is done as a day hike and without the larger backpacking backpacks.) Note: Half Dome is an optional side hike and not required. Those not attending can enjoy relaxing at the campsite and/or along the beach of the Merced River.

Round-trip Mileage/Elevation: 7 mi / +2755′, -2755′

Day 5

Our final hike takes us 4.5 miles down to Yosemite Valley (4,000′). We will hike along the famous Mist Trail that descends beside both Nevada Fall and Vernal Fall before ending in Curry Village. Generally, our goal is to finish between 2-4 p.m. but this can be later due to the human factors within the group.

Today’s Mileage/Elevation (without Half Dome): 4.5 mi / +146′, -2243′

Our trips are all-inclusive. We provide all meals, and we can provide high-quality gear, including Gregory backpacks, Big Agnes tents, sleeping bags and pads, LEKI trekking poles, and eating gear, free of charge. Group gear, including all kitchen supplies, first aid, and water purification, is also included. See the Guide Service Backpacking Equipment List for more information.
See our Frequently Asked Questions, Yosemite Transportation Options, and/or Yosemite Lodging Options.
Parking will be available adjacent to the first day’s meeting location.
All trips include the required permits and are pending permit availability, which we gain 23-24 weeks in advance. Please refrain from making travel arrangements until we have confirmed dates. If we cannot acquire permits for this exact itinerary on your chosen dates, you will be contacted with options to choose different dates and/or cancel/refund.
Should weather, fire, and/or delayed seasonal openings affect the chosen itinerary, a different itinerary will be offered. Lasting Adventures is recognized for its commitment to safety and risk management. In this regard, the summit of peaks will not be attempted when clouds are in close proximity.
Safety harnesses are not a requirement for the Half Dome cables, and we neither recommend for nor against them. It is a personal decision that ultimately lowers risk. We do not supply harnesses and/or Via Ferrata systems. You are, however, welcome to bring your own. For answers to other Half Dome questions, visit our Half Dome FAQ.
Should reservations be necessary to enter Yosemite, your booking confirmation with us will serve as your entry reservation for the days booked with us. This should not be confused with entry fees, which still may be required.

See here for our full Terms & Conditions and Cancellation Policies.

Your participation helps sustain our non-profit mission of supporting youth, families, and disadvantaged communities with positive experiences in America’s National Parks and natural spaces.

I have never backpacked before. Can I still join this trip?

Yes, our backpack trips are perfect for both those who are new to backpacking and those who have backpacked before and are looking to explore new areas.

I am booking as a solo participant. Is that okay?

Yes, overall, most of our clients travel solo, and everyone always leaves with new friends. Often these new friendships return and join us in different parks and/or on different itineraries. Solo participants will be offered single-person tents.

How big are the backpacking groups?

On backpacking trips, our average group size is 8-10 people with at least two guides, however, often groups are much smaller. We strive for a 1:5 guide to client ratio at most on all trips. We also appreciate small group sizes to maximize your experience.

Is there a Packing/Equipment List?

Yes, see here for our Guide Service Backpacking Equipment List.

What gear does Lasting Adventures provide?

On all multiday trips, and unlike most other outfitters, our trips are all–inclusive, with free use of quality gear from partners such as Gregory (backpacks), Big Agnes (tents, sleeping bags, and pads), Leki (trekking poles), and more. See here for Gear We Use. Lasting Adventures also provides all group gear (bear cans, cooking gear, first-aid supplies, water treatment, toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer, bug repellent, suntan lotion, etc).

If I have my own gear, do I get a discount?

Unfortunately no. Lasting Adventures provides our gear free of charge through longstanding partnerships with our gear partners. Thus, we neither charge more to use our gear nor charge less if you use your own. You can also request to use our gear, and also bring your own, and then decide what stays or goes when packing up with the guide(s) and group on the first day.

How much weight will I be required to carry?

You can expect to carry anywhere from 30-50 pounds, but no more than ⅓ of your body weight. You will carry all your personal gear and, if possible, a share of the group gear. Within the group, bigger people carry more and smaller people less. For over 30 years now, this process has worked to everyone’s advantage.

Can you accommodate dietary requests?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We have a long history of meeting the needs of most all dietary restrictions and even some very complicated ones. When registering, you will complete a questionnaire to give us a brief picture of your needs. Later, you will complete a more detailed Medical Form, which you can use to include additional information. The staff guiding your trip will call you the day prior and, when packing the food/gear for the trip, will go over your needs and modifications in more detail. Although we have many options in stock, we respect it if you ultimately decide to bring your preferred substitutions.

Will bathrooms and/or showers be available?

We operate traditional wilderness backpacking trips, and you should prepare yourself for not having access to bathrooms/showers. Guides will provide instructions on how to best use the wilderness when conducting your business while also following the Leave No Trace Principles. There will also be time to rinse off, as we camp near rivers, streams, and/or lakes daily. Less often, we may stay in campgrounds with toilets or outhouses.

Will there be parking available?

Yes, parking is always available close to our first day’s meeting point, and your vehicle can remain there throughout the trip. Although parking is free, remember to expect a vehicle fee when entering the park.

Are there public transportation options available?

Although past clients have said they were glad they rented a vehicle, there are limited public transportation options for most of the trips we offer in Yosemite. See here for additional information: Yosemite Transportation Options.

Where can I leave my extra/other luggage and/or belongings I will be traveling with?

You can store your valuables and/or extra gear/luggage either locked in your vehicle or our guide’s vehicle for the duration of the trip.

How can I avoid the extra processing and booking fees when registering for the trip?

To avoid the processing fees associated with online registration, you can pay by check, Zelle, or bank transfer. See more information here: Payment Options.

What's your cancellation policy?

Lasting Adventures offers a very forgiving and structured Cancellation Policy, with lifetime transferable credit always an option up to 30 days prior to the trip. For a full description, visit our Terms and Conditions page.

Are safety harnesses needed and included for Half Dome trips?

Safety harnesses are not required for Half Dome, and we neither recommend nor oppose them. It is a personal decision and ultimately poses a lower risk. We do not supply harnesses and/or via ferrata systems. You are, however, welcome to bring your own.

See here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.

Our trips are all-inclusive. We provide all meals, and we can provide high-quality gear, including Gregory backpacks, Big Agnes tents, sleeping bags and pads, LEKI trekking poles, and eating gear, free of charge. Group gear, including all kitchen supplies, first aid, and water purification, is also included. See the Guide Service Backpacking Equipment List for more information.
See our Frequently Asked Questions, Yosemite Transportation Options, and/or Yosemite Lodging Options.
Parking will be available adjacent to the first day’s meeting location.
All trips include the required permits and are pending permit availability, which we gain 23-24 weeks in advance. Please refrain from making travel arrangements until we have confirmed dates. If we cannot acquire permits for this exact itinerary on your chosen dates, you will be contacted with options to choose different dates and/or cancel/refund.
Should weather, fire, and/or delayed seasonal openings affect the chosen itinerary, a different itinerary will be offered. Lasting Adventures is recognized for its commitment to safety and risk management. In this regard, the summit of peaks will not be attempted when clouds are in close proximity.
Safety harnesses are not a requirement for the Half Dome cables, and we neither recommend for nor against them. It is a personal decision that ultimately lowers risk. We do not supply harnesses and/or Via Ferrata systems. You are, however, welcome to bring your own. For answers to other Half Dome questions, visit our Half Dome FAQ.
Should reservations be necessary to enter Yosemite, your booking confirmation with us will serve as your entry reservation for the days booked with us. This should not be confused with entry fees, which still may be required.

See here for our full Terms & Conditions and Cancellation Policies.

Your participation helps sustain our non-profit mission of supporting youth, families, and disadvantaged communities with positive experiences in America’s National Parks and natural spaces.

What Our Clients Say

					Lasting Adventures is amazing (Safe, laid back, experienced.....) I did the 5 day Tuolumne Meadows to Half-Dome hike, adding a trip to the redwoods of Yosemite (Mariposa Grove) it was 40 miles total.  I was nervous about ascending half-dome and it was awesome and we descended in the dark and I felt safe the entire time. Dyson and Joe were beyond amazing guides, I felt safe the entire time and oh my well fed. I have dietary allergies (Gluten-free vegan--ouch) and they had great meals for me.  I highly recommend making sure you train for a trip like this. But I give this tour and this company the highest rating I can for a reason. This is hands down the best way to experience the park. The communication from the company prior to was excellent as well.
- Read Moreread less
Chris P.
7/23/2025
×
Chris P.
7/23/2025

						Lasting Adventures is amazing (Safe, laid back, experienced.....) I did the 5 day Tuolumne Meadows to Half-Dome hike, adding a trip to the redwoods of Yosemite (Mariposa Grove) it was 40 miles total.  I was nervous about ascending half-dome and it was awesome and we descended in the dark and I felt safe the entire time. Dyson and Joe were beyond amazing guides, I felt safe the entire time and oh my well fed. I have dietary allergies (Gluten-free vegan--ouch) and they had great meals for me.  I highly recommend making sure you train for a trip like this. But I give this tour and this company the highest rating I can for a reason. This is hands down the best way to experience the park. The communication from the company prior to was excellent as well.
					
					We had an awesome time with Lasting Adventures hiking from Tuolumne Meadows down to Yosemite Valley with a summit of Half Dome. Joe and Dyson were great guides! Extremely attentive to group needs and always ready to help. They made excellent meals and made sure everyone was comfortable as could be during the week. We enjoyed all the insights they offered on the trail, history lessons, geography topics, and other legends of Yosemite. It was a multi-generational trip for us and we made memories that will last a lifetime! I would go on another trip with Lasting Adventures in a heartbeat and highly recommend them!
- Read Moreread less
Ben C.
7/23/2025
×
Ben C.
7/23/2025

						We had an awesome time with Lasting Adventures hiking from Tuolumne Meadows down to Yosemite Valley with a summit of Half Dome. Joe and Dyson were great guides! Extremely attentive to group needs and always ready to help. They made excellent meals and made sure everyone was comfortable as could be during the week. We enjoyed all the insights they offered on the trail, history lessons, geography topics, and other legends of Yosemite. It was a multi-generational trip for us and we made memories that will last a lifetime! I would go on another trip with Lasting Adventures in a heartbeat and highly recommend them!
					
					In August 2024, our group of four adults greatly enjoyed the 5-day backcountry trip in Yosemite's high Sierras, led by Lasting Adventures. (A side note: Since 1997, non-profit organization Lasting Adventures has been leading young people on backpacking wilderness trips without cell phones, challenging them and providing support/encouragement along the way.) Some of us were first time backcountry through hikers, so we really appreciated having a fabulous/friendly/knowledgeable guide with decades of experience in Yosemite. The hikes were challenging (in a good way) and the places we got to see were truly awe inspiring. From gorgeous mountains, to crystal clear lakes to cascading waterfalls complete with rainbows - the scenery made us so happy that our phones had no connectivity. Our photos cannot fully convey the beauty of the landscapes, and the inner peace that grew the longer we were disconnected from our typical busy lives. For our group, the Lasting Adventures trip was like hitting a "reset" button - so when we got home again, we were better able to enjoy and appreciate much that we'd previously overlooked or taken for granted. Also, I'd be remiss if I failed to mention how great the food was on this trip - everyone especially loved the fajitas!
- Read Moreread less
anne b.
9/15/2024
×
anne b.
9/15/2024

						In August 2024, our group of four adults greatly enjoyed the 5-day backcountry trip in Yosemite's high Sierras, led by Lasting Adventures. (A side note: Since 1997, non-profit organization Lasting Adventures has been leading young people on backpacking wilderness trips without cell phones, challenging them and providing support/encouragement along the way.) Some of us were first time backcountry through hikers, so we really appreciated having a fabulous/friendly/knowledgeable guide with decades of experience in Yosemite. The hikes were challenging (in a good way) and the places we got to see were truly awe inspiring. From gorgeous mountains, to crystal clear lakes to cascading waterfalls complete with rainbows - the scenery made us so happy that our phones had no connectivity. Our photos cannot fully convey the beauty of the landscapes, and the inner peace that grew the longer we were disconnected from our typical busy lives. For our group, the Lasting Adventures trip was like hitting a "reset" button - so when we got home again, we were better able to enjoy and appreciate much that we'd previously overlooked or taken for granted. Also, I'd be remiss if I failed to mention how great the food was on this trip - everyone especially loved the fajitas!
					
					Trip of a Lifetime Spent five nights last week on a Lasting Adventures trip in Yosemite. I couldn't have dreamt of a better way to see the park. Our guide was amazing and was a wealth of knowledge on the geology, trees, and history of the park. Finished the trip with a summit of Half Dome on our last day. The only way to really get a scale of Yosemite is to spend a few days backpacking through the park. Amazing food, good company, and some of the best scenery on earth. I highly recommend going with the experts at Lasting Adventures as this is truly their backyard.
- Read Moreread less
Sven B.
9/17/2023
×
Sven B.
9/17/2023

						Trip of a Lifetime Spent five nights last week on a Lasting Adventures trip in Yosemite. I couldn't have dreamt of a better way to see the park. Our guide was amazing and was a wealth of knowledge on the geology, trees, and history of the park. Finished the trip with a summit of Half Dome on our last day. The only way to really get a scale of Yosemite is to spend a few days backpacking through the park. Amazing food, good company, and some of the best scenery on earth. I highly recommend going with the experts at Lasting Adventures as this is truly their backyard.
					
					Completed the Tuolumne Meadows to Half Dome backpacking trip last week - what a perfect experience! It was the immersive Yosemite trip I had hoped for. But most of all Lasting Adventures was the right choice vs figuring it out on my own. Our guide (Zach N) was truly dedicated to making this a great experience for all, from juggling dietary restrictions, to accommodating different fitness levels, and sharing his passion for Yosemite and its history. I would advise anyone considering a guided/outfitted trip to do so and can't imagine anyone doing it better than Lasting Adventures. Advice read and understand the trip itinerary, difficulty level, and heed the advice to condition for the trip. Also - ask questions if you have them.
- Read Moreread less
A G.
9/12/2021
×
A G.
9/12/2021

						Completed the Tuolumne Meadows to Half Dome backpacking trip last week - what a perfect experience! It was the immersive Yosemite trip I had hoped for. But most of all Lasting Adventures was the right choice vs figuring it out on my own. Our guide (Zach N) was truly dedicated to making this a great experience for all, from juggling dietary restrictions, to accommodating different fitness levels, and sharing his passion for Yosemite and its history. I would advise anyone considering a guided/outfitted trip to do so and can't imagine anyone doing it better than Lasting Adventures. Advice read and understand the trip itinerary, difficulty level, and heed the advice to condition for the trip. Also - ask questions if you have them.
					
					6-Day Tuolumne to Half Dome Yosemite Backpacking Adventure My 14 year-old son and I just completed the 6-day backpacking trip from Tuolumne to Yosemite Valley (including a trip up Half Dome) with Lasting Adventures. We highly recommend both Lasting Adventures and this trip which is listed as one of their 'Guide's Choice' on their web site.Booking the trip was straightforward on LA's website. They have several trips to choose from but they clearly spell out the itinerary (with trail maps and routes) to help you decide. LA also did a great job communicating with us leading up to the trip providing a detailed equipment list, required forms and permits needed to get into the park, etc. They were also very responsive to all questions always responding within a couple of hours.Our guide Nicole was phenomenal. She took great care of us. Without her, we no doubt would have gotten lost in the first hour, then starved, suffered dehydration and gotten sick from exposure. In all seriousness, the meals she prepared were unbelievable whether it was the pad thai, tortellini with pesto sauce, blueberry/chocolate chip pancakes, etc. She also showed us some great spots along the trail. On day 1, we met at 4 PM at the main parking lot in Curry Village where they provided and went over all the equipment (backpack, tent, sleeping bag, etc.). They will provide everything you need except your own personal items clothing. We then spent the first night in the Curry Village backpacker's camp in the valley. The next morning we went by shuttle to the Tuolumne visitor center to embark on our 37+ mile journey. While that sounds like a long way, if you are reasonably fit (I'm in my early 50s), you should be able to handle it. The reward is some of the most beautiful scenery you will ever see with numerous glacier carved mountains, waterfalls and alpine lakes. Of course, the pinnacle of the trip is the opportunity to go to the top of Half Dome. While not a relaxing vacation by any means, this was an adventure we will never forget!
- Read Moreread less
Don G.
7/23/2021
×
Don G.
7/23/2021

						6-Day Tuolumne to Half Dome Yosemite Backpacking Adventure My 14 year-old son and I just completed the 6-day backpacking trip from Tuolumne to Yosemite Valley (including a trip up Half Dome) with Lasting Adventures. We highly recommend both Lasting Adventures and this trip which is listed as one of their 'Guide's Choice' on their web site.Booking the trip was straightforward on LA's website. They have several trips to choose from but they clearly spell out the itinerary (with trail maps and routes) to help you decide. LA also did a great job communicating with us leading up to the trip providing a detailed equipment list, required forms and permits needed to get into the park, etc. They were also very responsive to all questions always responding within a couple of hours.Our guide Nicole was phenomenal. She took great care of us. Without her, we no doubt would have gotten lost in the first hour, then starved, suffered dehydration and gotten sick from exposure. In all seriousness, the meals she prepared were unbelievable whether it was the pad thai, tortellini with pesto sauce, blueberry/chocolate chip pancakes, etc. She also showed us some great spots along the trail. On day 1, we met at 4 PM at the main parking lot in Curry Village where they provided and went over all the equipment (backpack, tent, sleeping bag, etc.). They will provide everything you need except your own personal items clothing. We then spent the first night in the Curry Village backpacker's camp in the valley. The next morning we went by shuttle to the Tuolumne visitor center to embark on our 37+ mile journey. While that sounds like a long way, if you are reasonably fit (I'm in my early 50s), you should be able to handle it. The reward is some of the most beautiful scenery you will ever see with numerous glacier carved mountains, waterfalls and alpine lakes. Of course, the pinnacle of the trip is the opportunity to go to the top of Half Dome. While not a relaxing vacation by any means, this was an adventure we will never forget!
					