Ten Lakes Beginner Trip

Join us on this moderate but breathtaking route to the high country and enjoy lake after lake in the spectacular Ten Lakes basin. This route is perfect for those looking to get away for the Valley crowds and want to discover the solitude of the Yosemite backcountry. This route is perfect for the first time backpacker looking for a great introduction to backpacking in Yosemite.

What's included: Breakfast and Dinner Meals (Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free available) Group cooking gear, bear canisters, water filtration systems Group first aid kit Wilderness Permits Expert guides

What's not included: Transportation to and from the park Park entrance fees Personal backpacking gear (see list below: all rentable at Sports Basement) Trip Insurance

 

DIFFICULTY SCALE

EASY

MODERATE -  Participants will be carrying their own gear, 35 - 45lbs, 5 to 7 miles each day over easy to moderate terrain at elevation drops and gains of up to 4,000 ft in a day. We recommend doing numerous day hikes and training with a 35 - 45lb pack prior to your trip. Individuals should be superior physical condition. A training regime can be supplied, at request. Also, please make sure your hiking boots are broken in before the trip.

DIFFICULT

VERY STRENUOUS

 

Day 1

• Meet at Yosemite Creek Trailhead parking lot along Tioga Pass (HWY 120) at 9am (MAP)
• Trip orientation and gear discussion
• Hike 6 miles on a gradual, and at times steep, ascent and then descent to one of the amazing Ten Lakes
• Make camp along a majestic lake
• Enjoy spectacular views of the basin
• Dinner and a fire provided

Day 2

• No official hiking, rest day if needed (napping, sunbathing and relaxing all available)
• Optional day hikes to nearby peaks and lakes
• Breakfast, dinner and a fire provided

Day 3

• Break camp
• Hike 6 miles out via the same route as day 1
• Return to cars late afternoon / early evening
• Breakfast provided

Note on Itinerary: Although we’ll always do our best to adhere to this schedule, it is often dictated by factors outside of our control and is therefore subject to change. We will run this trip rain or shine.

 

You bring:

• Lightweight 2 person, 3-season tent (rentals available)
• Backpacking pack - minimum 60L or 3700cu. in. (rentals available)
• Lightweight, compressible sleeping bag rated 15 to 25 degrees (rentals available)
• Lightweight sleeping pad - inflatable recommended (rentals available)
• Headlamp (with fresh batteries)
• Bowl, Cup, Spork
• Sturdy hiking boots that are broken in
• 3L Water Bladder and 1L Bottle
• Sunscreen, Sun hat, Sunglasses
• Hiking pants/shorts, lightweight, quick dry
• Wool or synthetic hiking specific socks, liner socks
• Waterproof rain gear (Rain jacket + pack cover recommended, poncho at minimum)
• Seasonally: baselayers, fleece, down jacket, beanie, gloves

Optional (but recommended) gear:

• Camera
• Insect Repellant
• Trekking poles
• Ear plugs
• Small pack towel
• Pillow
• Luxury Item (small book/kindle, deck of cards, etc.)

Do NOT bring:

• Soap
• Full wallet and set of keys (especially rental sets)
• Full sized toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen, etc.