The Amazing Sunsets Trip
Highlights: If you’re looking for an incredible backcountry adventure that isn’t too strenuous, look no further! During this five-day trip you’ll experience some of Yosemite’s pristine wilderness locations. Camp at the base of Mount Hoffman (10,850′) along the shore of May Lake. Swim, relax, or opt for a four-mile roundtrip hike to the summit of Mount Hoffman. Trek through high alpine meadows as you make your way to Polly Dome Lake—a hidden location surrounded partially by granite. Camp at Glen Aulin, nestled at the mouth of the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne River. Amazing sunsets are a specialty along this route! This trip is perfect for a family backpacking adventure, or those wanting something less strenuous.
2019 SNOWPACK UPDATE: Our snowpack this year in the Sierras is currently at about 150% of normal. We anticipate a late opening for the Yosemite High Country with snow prevalent into late June and beyond at higher elevations. River, creek, and waterfall flow will be at high and sometimes dangerous levels. We do not estimate the cables on Half Dome being installed until the first week of June. Any trips through mid-late June can be impacted and back-up itineraries will be offered when necessary. Further updates will be provided by email for registered clients and campers.
Check Out the The Amazing Sunsets Trip Experience!
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet your guide in front of the Tuolumne Meadows Store at 3:00 PM. Get acquainted with the group and with gear. If time allows before dinner, explore some of Tuolumne’s hidden gems. Grab dinner at the Tuolumne Grill before settling in for the night at the Tuolumne Meadows Backpacker’s Camp. (Note: food in the front-country is not included.)
Day 2
After grabbing breakfast at the Grill, take the shuttle to the May Lake trailhead. Before hitting the trail, soak in the alpine views at Tenaya Lake (8,150′) before hiking approximately 3 moderate miles up to May Lake. After setting up camp, opt for a four mile roundtrip hike to the summit of Mount Hoffman. Mount Hoffman is the geographical center of Yosemite National Park and was John Muir’s favorite summit view. After dinner, scramble up onto the secret bluff to witness the first amazing sunset.
Day 3
Hike 4.5 miles to Polly Dome Lake. Relax and swim in the pristine alpine lake as your guide prepares you a hearty dinner. Explore up one of the granite walls around the lake for another amazing sunset!
Day 4
Hike 4.5 miles to Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp. Spectacular waterfall and swimming hole here. After dinner take a short stroll to a bluff overlooking the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne for the final (and typically the most incredible!) Yosemite sunset.
Day 5
Hike out 6 miles along the meandering Tuolumne River to Tuolumne Meadows. Typically we arrive back in Tuolumne Meadows between 11am-1pm; perfect time for a burger from the Tuolumne Grill!
Other: This is a great route for the inexperienced hikers and families. Two campsites are on a lake with swimming and fishing possibilities. The other campsite is along the Tuolumne River with a great swimming hole below an awesome cascade. There are toilets and running drinking water in two of the three campsites.
Required shuttle costs are included in the above costs. We also include backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, pads, trekking poles and eating utensils at NO EXTRA COST as needed. Lastly, all profits from our guided trips go towards our non-profit youth summer camp program.
Note: All trips are subject to Lasting Adventures obtaining the necessary wilderness permits. Although our success rate is 98%, should we not obtain the exact trail-head, a trip of equal quality will be obtained. Should weather, fire, and/or delayed seasonal openings affect the chosen itinerary, a different itinerary will be offered. You will be kept in contact throughout this process.
*All trips are pending permit availability which we gain 24-weeks in advance. Please refrain from making travel arrangements until we have confirmed dates.
Testimonials
*All trips listed above are permitted for 2019.
