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May Lake to Snow Creek

May Lake to Snow Creek

Trip Highlights:

May Lake

Yosemite Valley Views

Classic Backpacking

Camp Across from Half Dome

Mostly downhill

This family-friendly Yosemite backpacking adventure includes some of the most iconic Yosemite vistas, coupled with fun and relatively mellow hiking. Begin the trip in Yosemite’s high country camping at the base of Mount Hoffman (10,850’) along the shore of May Lake. An ascent of Mount Hoffman is an option for those looking for extra mileage and scenery. From the high country you’ll descend into Yosemite Valley, camping directly across from the North Face of Half Dome nearly 2,750 feet above the Valley floor. The final descent takes you past the spectacular cascades of Snow Creek. This is the perfect Yosemite family backpacking trip!

Please Note: Due to the 2023 record-setting snowpack, we are estimating an early July opening for the Hwy 120/Tioga Pass Road and access to this trips itinerary.  (However this can change also and be earlier/later as it is all dependant on the weather between now and then.) Trips scheduled before this opening will be relocated to a similar itinerary at a lower elevation. See more information below.

Due to a record setting snowpack this winter, we anticipate late seasonal openings for the 2023 summer at higher elevations (with Tioga Road opening between July 1-15th) and modified itineraries at lower elevations and on early season trips as needed. Our online offerings have been updated to reflect this.

Be prepared for wet/muddy trails, and the possibility of stream/river crossings and/or walking on/crossing/camping on/near snow. Trekking poles will be provided. Also be prepared for added adventure as you experience Yosemite in unparalleled beauty as it comes to life after one of the wettest winter seasons on record. If seasonal access or trail conditions present issues, the tour/hike/itinerary will be modified accordingly. For more information and what to expect, see: Yosemite’s 2023 Snowpack & 2023 Summer Expectations.

Mileage & Difficulty

15-18 Miles

Length

4 Days

Price

$1,400

Per Person

Departure Info

4pm
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2023 Departure Dates by Month

    June Departure Dates  

  • Sat, Jun 24th – Tue, Jun 27th
  • July Departure Dates  

  • Mon, Jul 17th – Thu, Jul 20th
    Hurry, only 4 spots remain

    August Departure Dates  

  • Tue, Aug 8th – Fri, Aug 11th
  • Sat, Aug 12th – Tue, Aug 15th
  • Thu, Aug 31st – Sun, Sep 3rd
    Hurry, only 4 spots remain
  • September Departure Dates  

  • Wed, Sep 6th – Sat, Sep 9th
  • Thu, Sep 14th – Sun, Sep 17th
    Hurry, only 4 spots remain
  • Wed, Sep 27th – Sat, Sep 30th

    October Departure Dates  

  • Wed, Oct 4th – Sat, Oct 7th


All 2023 dates remain tentative until permitted 20-weeks in advance. Please remain from making travel arrangements outside of this timeline. We will contact you if we are unsuccessful in obtaining the exact dates listed above. Feel free to contact us if you would like to confirm.”

#1 Rated Guide Service in the West

Guide Service Guest, 2021
Guide Service Guest, 2021
@stephenp236
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"My son and I (both tax accountants) recently enjoyed a three-day private guided backpacking trip with Last Adventures. The trip met all our expectations; we had a great time! The guide’s love of her work and knowledge of Yosemite National Park made the trip a success. She planned all the details, provided excellent gear, and made sure everything worked out as planned"
Guide Service Guest, 2021
Guide Service Guest, 2021
@D8156BRjennifero
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"Lasting Adventures made my trip to Yosemite a dream vacation! It was stress-free because every detail was covered from food and transportation to clear meeting instructions and itinerary. Our guide took a hike that would have been fun and made it magical by explaining the history and ecology of the area we were hiking. He matched our pace and often let us lead. I can't say enough good things about Zachary and Lasting Adventures!”
 Yoga Retreat Guest, 2021
Yoga Retreat Guest, 2021
@MikeK746
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“I did the Yosemite yoga 3 day backcountry camping. It was amazing! I would definitely do it again. The food was great! The scenery was superb camping in high country aside a mountain lake, and the guides and yoga instructor were fantastic!!!”
 Guide Service Guest, 2021
Guide Service Guest, 2021
@cezefo
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"We were a group of 7 family members (ages 22-65 years old), and for all of us it was our first hiking/backpacking/camping experience. We all had such an amazing yet challenging experience! Our guides’ spirit, cooking, and knowledge were great!”
 Guide Service Guest, 2021
Guide Service Guest, 2021
@Ambrosiaboyd
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“We backpacked with a group of 7 other people from 'Backpacker's Camp' to Mae Lake, up to Mt Hoffman, Cloud's Rest, and finally completed the trip with an amazing last day, summiting Half Dome at sunrise! It. Was. Incredible!! Our guides immediately made us feel comfortable and excited. Their passion for the wilderness, people, and their career as a guide is contagious. If you have the chance to go on a Lasting Adventures trip - please do it!”
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