Alpine Lakes and Summits

2 Summits, 3 Alpine Lakes, Countless Adventures - Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trips

Yosemite National Park

Trip Highlights:

May Lake

Mount Hoffmann

Tenaya Lake

Clouds Rest

High Alpine Wilderness

Great Summit Views

Summit two of Yosemite’s most iconic peaks over the course of three nights in the backcountry, while camping and exploring the park’s stunning alpine lakes one of our most popular guided Yosemite Backpacking Trips! Start your journey camping at the shore of May Lake at the base of Mount Hoffmann (10,850’). Cool off in Yosemite’s largest lake (Tenaya) before hiking up to the Sunrise Lakes area where you will camp before tackling the Clouds Rest summit (9,926’). Leave the packs at camp for a light day hike to Clouds Rest on Day 4, where you’ll experience one of the best views of Yosemite Valley in the park! On the final day, retrace your steps for a downhill hike back to Tioga Road where you’ll be shuttled back to Yosemite Valley to end our trip. If you’re looking for a quintessential Yosemite high country experience, this adventure will not disappoint!

Mileage & Difficulty

25 Miles

(Map and Elevation)

Moderate-Strenuous

Length

5 Days

Price

$2,000

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 July 4, 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.

Guided Yosemite Backpacking Trips – Alpine Lakes & Summits

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

Day 1

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

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

Day 2

After breakfast and packing up the campsite, our group will return to Curry Village before relocating vehicles to the trailhead near Tenaya Lake. Catch your first glimpse of the high country while hiking 2.6 moderate miles up to May Lake (9,329′). After setting up camp along the lake’s shore, hike the four miles round-trip to the top of Mount Hoffmann (10,850′). Mount Hoffmann is the geographical center of Yosemite National Park and was also John Muir’s favorite summit view. Also at this location: swimming, relaxing, and taking in an amazing sunset on the secret bluff which looks east across the Yosemite high country.

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 2.6 mi / +1093′, -6′ (Optional additional 3.2 mi/1535′ of elevation if hiking Mount Hoffmann)

Day 3

Hike back down to Tioga Road and then up to Sunrise Lakes, stopping off for lunch and a dip in Tenaya Lake along the way. After the day’s biggest uphill hike, cool off in the cold alpine water before catching another spectacular sunset.

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 6.6 mi / +1349′-1405′

Day 4

After a hearty breakfast, leave the packs at camp for a light day hike approximately 3.5 miles to the summit of Clouds Rest at 9,926′. Enjoy lunch at the top while soaking in panoramic views of Yosemite’s wilderness. An easy mostly downhill hike takes us back to camp at Sunrise Lakes to end the day

Today’s Mileage/Elevation: 9.2 mi / +2148′, -2148′

Day 5

Enjoy a leisurely wake-up time on the last morning, followed by the final breakfast of the trip. After packing up camp, take in the views as you descend 3 miles down the Sunrise Trail back to Tenaya Lake, where you’ll be transported back to Yosemite Valley to end your trip. 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: 3.5 mi / +218′, -1335′

Other: When going this route, there are options. For example; there is a trail that goes around the summit of Clouds Rest should anyone not want to summit.

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.
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.

Note: the itinerary for this trip may be different from what is listed, based on permit availability. We will discuss all options when permits are finalized. All options will be similar, with access to lakes, summits, and beautiful forests.

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.

See here for 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.
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

					4-Day Half-Dome Backpacking.  AMAZING! An AMAZING trip.  Well organized, professional and kind.  Highly recommend.

From their detailed pre-trip planning, to the knowledgeable and kind guide (Dyson) this trip was FAR BETTER than I ever could have imagined.  All around fantastic organization and experience.
- Read Moreread less
Jay E.
10/14/2025
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Jay E.
10/14/2025

						4-Day Half-Dome Backpacking.  AMAZING! An AMAZING trip.  Well organized, professional and kind.  Highly recommend.

From their detailed pre-trip planning, to the knowledgeable and kind guide (Dyson) this trip was FAR BETTER than I ever could have imagined.  All around fantastic organization and experience.
					
					Freedom to Immerse Ourselves in Nature We loved our experience with Lasting Adventures!  Our guides were top notch!  Their expert guidance freed us from all logistical stress and allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the majestic beauty of Yosemite.  We saw so much in such a short time.  The double rainbow after a light rainfall was particularly beautiful.

Our guides went above and beyond to make sure everyone was comfortable and well-fed. We all appreciated their endless patience and deep knowledge of Yosemite — it made the experience truly unforgettable. We’re so grateful for all the care and attention they put into every detail and for all they did to make our Yosemite dreams come true.  

Additionally, many in our group utilized Lasting Adventure's gear and all were extremely happy with everything including backpacks, trekking poles, sleeping bags, tents, etc.
- Read Moreread less
Alissa B.
10/06/2025
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Alissa B.
10/06/2025

						Freedom to Immerse Ourselves in Nature We loved our experience with Lasting Adventures!  Our guides were top notch!  Their expert guidance freed us from all logistical stress and allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the majestic beauty of Yosemite.  We saw so much in such a short time.  The double rainbow after a light rainfall was particularly beautiful.

Our guides went above and beyond to make sure everyone was comfortable and well-fed. We all appreciated their endless patience and deep knowledge of Yosemite — it made the experience truly unforgettable. We’re so grateful for all the care and attention they put into every detail and for all they did to make our Yosemite dreams come true.  

Additionally, many in our group utilized Lasting Adventure's gear and all were extremely happy with everything including backpacks, trekking poles, sleeping bags, tents, etc.
					
					Awesome Experience We had an incredible inspiring experience on this trip.  The guides, Chloe and Isaac, did an excellent job explaining, leading, educating, cooking, encouraging (especially going up the cables), and even nursing a minor wound. And they were fun to hike with.  Everything was planned out and executed well.  The food was plentiful and delicious, given that we were on the trail and carrying supplies.  No complaints about the equipment.  Half Dome at Sunset was a once-in-a-lifetime event.
- Read Moreread less
Sean C.
9/19/2025
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Sean C.
9/19/2025

						Awesome Experience We had an incredible inspiring experience on this trip.  The guides, Chloe and Isaac, did an excellent job explaining, leading, educating, cooking, encouraging (especially going up the cables), and even nursing a minor wound. And they were fun to hike with.  Everything was planned out and executed well.  The food was plentiful and delicious, given that we were on the trail and carrying supplies.  No complaints about the equipment.  Half Dome at Sunset was a once-in-a-lifetime event.
					
					Had the best time on my backpacking trip! Our guide, Dyson, was incredibly patient and knowledgeable, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Overall, it was an amazing adventure
- Read Moreread less
Pooja
9/15/2025
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Pooja
9/15/2025

						Had the best time on my backpacking trip! Our guide, Dyson, was incredibly patient and knowledgeable, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Overall, it was an amazing adventure
					
					Perfect experience! We just returned from Lasting Adventures amazing multi-day backpacking trip from Cathedral Lakes to Clouds Rest. Maggie, our guide, was calm, kind, and incredibly competent—exactly the kind of person you want to follow into the backcountry. Maggie had this quiet way of encouraging us without ever making us feel pressured. And even though we were probably half the speed of most hikers on the trail, Maggie never made us feel anything but strong and capable. Maggie provided everything we needed, from biodegradable glitter to delicious meals (seriously, the food was outstanding!). Along the way, she patiently taught us how to pack our packs more efficiently and set up our tent like pros. Honestly, Maggie is such an extraordinary human being that we have joked about writing a thank-you note to her parents for raising someone so thoughtful, grounded, and skilled. If you’re considering a trip with Lasting Adventures, go! We were taken care of from start to finish.
- Read Moreread less
meghanp904
9/14/2025
×
meghanp904
9/14/2025

						Perfect experience! We just returned from Lasting Adventures amazing multi-day backpacking trip from Cathedral Lakes to Clouds Rest. Maggie, our guide, was calm, kind, and incredibly competent—exactly the kind of person you want to follow into the backcountry. Maggie had this quiet way of encouraging us without ever making us feel pressured. And even though we were probably half the speed of most hikers on the trail, Maggie never made us feel anything but strong and capable. Maggie provided everything we needed, from biodegradable glitter to delicious meals (seriously, the food was outstanding!). Along the way, she patiently taught us how to pack our packs more efficiently and set up our tent like pros. Honestly, Maggie is such an extraordinary human being that we have joked about writing a thank-you note to her parents for raising someone so thoughtful, grounded, and skilled. If you’re considering a trip with Lasting Adventures, go! We were taken care of from start to finish.
					
					Excellent backpacking trip with Lasting Adventures. I joined the group in the last minute but the communication with the company as well as with the guide was easy and I didn’t feel like I missed anything in preparation of the trip. Our guide Dyson was a real gem. Such a great personality and a wonderful guide. He made sure everyone in the group was comfortable, whether it was sleeping at night, carrying the backpacks or emotional encouragement to those who could have given up without his gentle push. The meals he cooked were amazing: from fresh kale-chorizo-cheese-eggs to treating us to freshly made donuts or dinner on top of the Half Dome. During the hike he would point out birds and plants that were unique or interesting, or tell historical tales/stories about the area. His confidence in guiding made everyone feel at ease and comfortable. Overall, I was very happy with my choice and the trip. Thank you!!
- Read Moreread less
Tatsiana S.
9/14/2025
×
Tatsiana S.
9/14/2025

						Excellent backpacking trip with Lasting Adventures. I joined the group in the last minute but the communication with the company as well as with the guide was easy and I didn’t feel like I missed anything in preparation of the trip. Our guide Dyson was a real gem. Such a great personality and a wonderful guide. He made sure everyone in the group was comfortable, whether it was sleeping at night, carrying the backpacks or emotional encouragement to those who could have given up without his gentle push. The meals he cooked were amazing: from fresh kale-chorizo-cheese-eggs to treating us to freshly made donuts or dinner on top of the Half Dome. During the hike he would point out birds and plants that were unique or interesting, or tell historical tales/stories about the area. His confidence in guiding made everyone feel at ease and comfortable. Overall, I was very happy with my choice and the trip. Thank you!!
					
					Amazing Experience! Such an amazing trip, totally worth the price. Guide was very knowledgeable and knew where all the good spots to camp were. Would totally recommend.
- Read Moreread less
Shelby P.
9/13/2025
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Shelby P.
9/13/2025

						Amazing Experience! Such an amazing trip, totally worth the price. Guide was very knowledgeable and knew where all the good spots to camp were. Would totally recommend.
					
					Had an amazing trip from Glacier Point to Half Dome. Isaac and Chloe were an unbeatable combo! They came up with an excellent meal plan and served us tons of great food. The pace was good, they were friendly and helpful and it was cool talking to them and everyone else on the trip and hearing all their stories! We had all of Half Dome to ourselves and then had a really cool night hike back down through the woods. Unforgettable trip!
- Read Moreread less
Chris C.
9/13/2025
×
Chris C.
9/13/2025

						Had an amazing trip from Glacier Point to Half Dome. Isaac and Chloe were an unbeatable combo! They came up with an excellent meal plan and served us tons of great food. The pace was good, they were friendly and helpful and it was cool talking to them and everyone else on the trip and hearing all their stories! We had all of Half Dome to ourselves and then had a really cool night hike back down through the woods. Unforgettable trip!
					
					This four-day hike to the top of Half Dome was the best way to knock this beast off your bucket list! We truly got to explore Yosemite well beyond the grueling one-and-done day trip. Expect to carry 25 pounds or more over miles—but with a rewarding payoff. Day 3 especially was a good workout, with 5.5 miles in the morning, making camp, and then hiking 3.5 miles more (with lighter daypacks) up to sub dome and the top of Half Dome. The plan was excellent, with the cables empty of other hikers in the late afternoon. Then we watched the sun go down from the top, with 360 views and beautiful orange sky. We headlamped back to our camp, which took advantage of the evening weather. On top of it all, our food was top quality, thanks to our guides, Chloe and Isaac carrying an array of pots, pans, big propane cylinders, food and more. They set a great tone and lots of guidance for the overall hike.
- Read Moreread less
Phil G.
9/11/2025
×
Phil G.
9/11/2025

						This four-day hike to the top of Half Dome was the best way to knock this beast off your bucket list! We truly got to explore Yosemite well beyond the grueling one-and-done day trip. Expect to carry 25 pounds or more over miles—but with a rewarding payoff. Day 3 especially was a good workout, with 5.5 miles in the morning, making camp, and then hiking 3.5 miles more (with lighter daypacks) up to sub dome and the top of Half Dome. The plan was excellent, with the cables empty of other hikers in the late afternoon. Then we watched the sun go down from the top, with 360 views and beautiful orange sky. We headlamped back to our camp, which took advantage of the evening weather. On top of it all, our food was top quality, thanks to our guides, Chloe and Isaac carrying an array of pots, pans, big propane cylinders, food and more. They set a great tone and lots of guidance for the overall hike.
					
					Fantastic Half Dome trip We did the 4 day Lasting Adventures backpack trip to Half Dome and were impressed with everything from the detailed packing list to the bucket list summit of Half Dome at sunset on day 3 to the great meals and information provided throughout by our amazing guide Dyson.  Highly recommend!
- Read Moreread less
Eric O.
9/10/2025
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Eric O.
9/10/2025

						Fantastic Half Dome trip We did the 4 day Lasting Adventures backpack trip to Half Dome and were impressed with everything from the detailed packing list to the bucket list summit of Half Dome at sunset on day 3 to the great meals and information provided throughout by our amazing guide Dyson.  Highly recommend!
					
					Along with my dad and brother, I did the 4 day Glacier Point - Half Dome backpacking trip. The trip was an amazing experience, with a fun group full of mostly solo travelers plus great weather! Our guides Isaac and Chloe were great and they did it all, from tending to minor medical issues, cooking surprisingly great food (for being out in the wilderness), and getting our large group safely up to Half Dome and back after sunset. As someone who’s not an avid hiker, I’d recommend that the average person understand what they’re getting into on the hike; Half Dome is not an easy climb. But as long as you’re relatively active and try to follow the pre-trip training guide, the views are well worth the trip to the top! Would definitely recommend Lasting Adventures for those looking for a unique hiking experience in Yosemite.
- Read Moreread less
Will C.
9/08/2025
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Will C.
9/08/2025

						Along with my dad and brother, I did the 4 day Glacier Point - Half Dome backpacking trip. The trip was an amazing experience, with a fun group full of mostly solo travelers plus great weather! Our guides Isaac and Chloe were great and they did it all, from tending to minor medical issues, cooking surprisingly great food (for being out in the wilderness), and getting our large group safely up to Half Dome and back after sunset. As someone who’s not an avid hiker, I’d recommend that the average person understand what they’re getting into on the hike; Half Dome is not an easy climb. But as long as you’re relatively active and try to follow the pre-trip training guide, the views are well worth the trip to the top! Would definitely recommend Lasting Adventures for those looking for a unique hiking experience in Yosemite.
					
					Had an amazing backpacking trip! The group vibe was incredible, and our guide, Matt, was the best! He was knowledgeable, fun, and super supportive the whole way. An unforgettable experience from start to finish! Highly recommend this wonderful company!
- Read Moreread less
Catherine F.
8/26/2025
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Catherine F.
8/26/2025

						Had an amazing backpacking trip! The group vibe was incredible, and our guide, Matt, was the best! He was knowledgeable, fun, and super supportive the whole way. An unforgettable experience from start to finish! Highly recommend this wonderful company!
					
					I booked 3 nights with Lasting Adventures on the Glacier Point to Half Dome hike. Our guide Matt was excellent; knowledgeable, well prepared and a great cook (they'll surprise you with what they can pull off). I’d highly recommend signing up especially if you're a little nervous. We felt safe every step of the way.
- Read Moreread less
Tony B.
8/18/2025
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Tony B.
8/18/2025

						I booked 3 nights with Lasting Adventures on the Glacier Point to Half Dome hike. Our guide Matt was excellent; knowledgeable, well prepared and a great cook (they'll surprise you with what they can pull off). I’d highly recommend signing up especially if you're a little nervous. We felt safe every step of the way.
					
					Yosemite Yoga Retreat A couple friends and I booked the Yosemite yoga retreat with Lasting Adventures. It was an absolutely amazing experience with plenty of exhilarating hikes, breathtaking views, and refreshing yoga classes. Zuzanna was a fantastic guide and made it a truly fun and rewarding experience.
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Climber15588213691
8/16/2025
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Climber15588213691
8/16/2025

						Yosemite Yoga Retreat A couple friends and I booked the Yosemite yoga retreat with Lasting Adventures. It was an absolutely amazing experience with plenty of exhilarating hikes, breathtaking views, and refreshing yoga classes. Zuzanna was a fantastic guide and made it a truly fun and rewarding experience.
					
					The entire trip was excellent! I had never done yoga before and Zuzanna was incredibly helpful in teaching me how to get into it! I can't say enough about the experience it was well worth the cost and would recommend it to anyone!
- Read Moreread less
Mike B.
8/14/2025
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Mike B.
8/14/2025

						The entire trip was excellent! I had never done yoga before and Zuzanna was incredibly helpful in teaching me how to get into it! I can't say enough about the experience it was well worth the cost and would recommend it to anyone!
					