Trip Length: 5 Days/4 Nights

Group Size: 2-5

Co-ed group

June 20-25, 2024

$2195

Book Your Spot!

Save Up to 10% on this trip with Alpinistas Star Rewards.

Trip Summary

Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit on the ULTIMATE Yosemite Backpacking Trip

Embark on an unforgettable journey designed exclusively for adventure folk who crave exploration, camaraderie, and breathtaking natural beauty. Join us on an awe-inspiring 5-day backpacking adventure through the heart of Yosemite National Park, where towering granite peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and pristine wilderness await. Meet your guide in Yosemite Valley, shuttle to Tuolumne Meadows and trek out through Rafferty Creek, Vogelsang and Half Dome. Led by experienced and passionate guides, this empowering expedition promises to be an experience of a lifetime.

This trip is open to all genders. Bring your friend, your significant other or brother!

Highlights

Travel through beautiful Tuolume Meadows through Vogelsang.
Summit of Half Dome, an iconic peak with 360-degree views of the park and surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains
Breathtaking views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and surrounding peaks
Delicious meals provided throughout the trip
Supportive and empowering environment to connect with other like-minded folks
Opportunity to experience the transformative power of outdoor adventure in a beautiful and inspiring setting
Experienced guides to provide expert instruction on backpacking and wilderness skills

What’s Included

Professional guides
6:1 client to guide ratio or less, with a max group size of 6 clients
All breakfasts, dinners and hot beverages cooked by your guide
Tents, sleeping pad, bear canister (additional gear may be available or rented)
Group first aid kit
Water filtration
Group cooking gear and all eating dishes/utensils
Campsite
Permit fees
5% back to the park
Special discount to shop at Alpinistas store

Don’t see the dates you are looking for?

Sign up to be notified when new dates are released or book a private guide to get the trip of your dreams.

Yosemite Rafferty Creek Backpacking + Half Dome Summit

Day 1

7.5 miles, 1,500’ elevation gain
Tuolumne Meadows - The Gateway to Adventure
You will meet your guide at Curry Village in Yosemite Valley in the morning and shuttle to Rafferty Creek Trailhead. Our trek begins in the iconic Tuolumne Meadows, a tranquil oasis nestled amidst the grandeur of the Sierra Nevada. As we lace up our boots and shoulder our backpacks, anticipation fills the air. We'll set off on a scenic trail, immersing ourselves in the tranquil beauty of Rafferty Creek. The sounds of babbling creeks, fragrant pine forests, and sweeping meadows will serenade us as we traverse this awe-inspiring landscape. Along the way, our knowledgeable guides will regale us with stories of the park's history, flora, and fauna, enriching our connection to this natural wonderland.
Meals provided: dinner, hot drinks
Day 2

8 miles, 2,000’ elevation loss
Vogelsang - Alpine Bliss
Ascending through alpine valleys, our path leads us to the majestic Vogelsang region. As we emerge from the tree line, we'll be greeted by jaw-dropping vistas of rugged peaks and pristine alpine lakes. Here, time slows down, allowing us to fully appreciate the serenity and sheer magnificence of our surroundings. Our expert guides will share their insights into the delicate ecosystems that thrive in these high-altitude realms, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for this fragile wilderness.
Meals provided: Breakfast, dinner, hot drinks
Day 3

7.5 miles, 1,000’ elevation gain
Half Dome Beckons
The pinnacle of our adventure awaits us as we head towards the legendary Half Dome today. Passing the crashing water of the Merced River, gazing out across the valley you will take in sweeping views of Echo Valley and Lost Valley.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, dinner, hot drinks
Day 4

Half Dome Summit Day
9 miles, 2,000’ elevation gain
Today is the day! The awe-inspiring summit of Half Dome. As we ascend this iconic granite monolith, our spirits soar with each step forward. The sheer grandeur of Yosemite Valley unfolds before our eyes, providing a bird's-eye view of nature's masterpiece. With the support and encouragement of our fellow female adventurers, we'll conquer this symbolic feat, reminding ourselves of the strength, determination, and resilience within us all.
*Important Considerations for Half Dome Ascent: The Cable Route presents a thrilling yet challenging option. Its exposed and steep nature may not suit individuals with fear of heights. However, conquering Half Dome's summit is optional, as the remarkable views from Sub Dome are equally awe-inspiring! Those who prefer not to summit can stay at Sub Dome, bask in the breathtaking scenery, and await the group's return. Those that choose to go with their guide to summit Half Dome will be using climbing protection when ascending and descending, as provided and instructed by your guide.
Day 5

John Muir Trail to the Valley
5.5 miles, 2,000’ elevation loss
On our final day, we'll gather around a great breakfast and focus on reflection and celebration, sharing stories about the journey we've undertaken together. We'll celebrate the triumphs, the friendships forged, and the moments of personal growth we've experienced along the way.
This remarkable adventure will forever leave an indelible mark on our lives, reminding us of the boundless possibilities that lie within when we dare to explore, challenge ourselves, and support one another.

Activity, Fitness & Skills

This trip is rated Intermediate+ [4]. Our longest day of backpacking is 8 miles with 2,000’ feet of elevation gain. Half Dome summit day will be with daypacks only, but is also a long day at 9 miles and 2,000’ elevation gain. Participants will be carrying their own backpacks weighing 35-45 pounds.
To maximize your enjoyment of the trip, we encourage you to participate in a training program before the trip. We recommend that your program includes training by hiking with a weighted pack.
This trip begins at an elevation of 8600 feet. Our maximum elevation during the trip is the summit of Half Dome at 8839’. Though our first day is not particularly strenuous, if you are coming from sea level, we recommend that you spend a night in the park at altitude before the trip. Staying well hydrated before the trip can also assist in mitigating altitude sickness.
Overall fitness is important to your enjoyment of the trip. The only thing taking your breath away should be the views!

Accommodations

Backcountry camping, 4 nights

2 person tents are provided and will be shared with those that are bringing their +1s. Solo travelers will have the choice of using a single person tent or sharing a tent with another traveler. You may also bring your own tent.

The Yosemite Valley Backpackers Campground can be available to stay the night before and night after this itinerary, ask us for details after you book if interested.

Book Now

Save Up to 10% on this trip with Alpinistas Star Rewards.

Not Included

Transportation from your hometown to group meeting point in Curry Village, Yosemite National Park.
Park entrance fees where required
Trip insurance
Lunches & snacks - some light snacks provided but nowadays, everyone’s preference on the trail is so different that we’ll leave it to you to bring your lunch.
Alcoholic beverages or soft drinks
Guide gratuities
Personal items such as toiletries, clothing, accessories, sleeping bag.

Gear List

Layering is the key to staying comfortable while being active outdoors. The secret to achieving maximum comfort with minimum weight is to bring versatile layers that can be mixed and matched to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation, and weather protection.

When packing, try to bring only what you need. This not only makes your load lighter but also helps our amazing field staff.

If you've already booked your trip, don't worry! You’ll be getting emails with a detailed list of what you'll need to bring (plus tons of other helpful information).

Are you looking to reduce your carbon footprint or save some money? Check out our rental page for great gear to borrow for your trip or shop at Alpinistas Re-Cover department for gently used gear online.

Get ready to conquer the outdoors, Alpinistas! We can't wait to see you on the trail.

All Group Cooking Gear
Dishes and eating utensils
Bear Canister
Group First Aid Kit
Stoves and Fuel
Tent(s)
Sleeping pad
Trekking Poles - if requested
Water Filter
Backpacking Pack (Extended, 55-65L) - need room for bear canister
Base Layer Tops and Bottoms (Lightweight, Synthetic or Wool)
Fleece/Wool Gloves
Fleece/Wool Hat
Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
Hiking Boots
Hiking Pants (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool)
Insulated Jacket and/or Vest
Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
Pack Rain Cover
Personal Bathroom Kit: Toilet Paper, Ziplock Bags, Personal Wipes, Hand Cleaner
Prescription Medications
Rain Jacket (Hooded, Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
Rain Pants (Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
Sleeping Bag (15°-29°, Lightweight, Compressible)
Sunblock and Lip Balm
Water Bottles (Three 1-Liter) or Hydration System Plus One 1-Liter Water Bottle
Bandana or Buff for Sun Protection
Day Pack (Lightweight, Compressible)
Face Mask
Hand Sanitizer
Head Net
Hiking Shorts (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
Insect Repellent
Garbage Bag for Personal Trash
Sun Hat
Sunglasses and Accessories
Tee Shirts (Synthetic)
Toiletries
Trowel
Underwear
Camera and Accessories
Camp Towel
Casual Shoes for Camp
Ear Plugs
Energy Snacks and Drink Mixes
Lightweight Backpacking Chair
Liner Socks (Synthetic)
Personal First Aid Kit/Medications (Lightweight)
Reading and Writing Materials
Sleeping Bag Liner
Small Binoculars
Small Multitool

Have questions about the gear list?

Give us a call at 775-230-7125 or send us a chat or email.

Helpful for booking

After you book your reservation, you will receive a confirmation email with some action items. (Please check promotions and spam folder if you don’t receive a confirmation immediately.)
As you start to get closer to your event date, you will receive additional emails confirming access to your client portal that includes itinerary details and other important or helpful supplemental information such as start time and driving directions. You will also have someone from our office reach out to discuss any questions that you might have.
The week of the event, you should be ready to go and you will receive a final email introducing your guides, providing you with their contact information and other last minute notes.
The closest airport to Yosemite National Park is the Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), located about 65 miles (105 km) away. Another option is the Merced Regional Airport (MCE), located about 80 miles (129 km) away.
Public transportation is available from Fresno Airport to various locations in Yosemite via the Yosemite Area Regional Transit System. There is also public transportation available within the park. Please review their schedule for the latest dates and times.
Sierra daytime temperatures can range between 60 to 80 degrees F, with overnight lows dropping to the 40s or 50s. You may encounter freezing temperatures at some of the higher elevations. Afternoon thunderstorms are a distinct possibility so adequate raingear is important. Please view our Yosemite Weather page for additional information.
While the majority of our trips are female only, this trip is open to all genders!
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Travel Insurance: We highly recommend travel insurance to protect your trip in the event unforeseeable circumstances or illness comes up that interferes with your ability to join the trip.