TRIP DATES
Trip Overview
Join us on this moderate but breathtaking route to the spectacular Ten Lakes basin in Yosemite's high country - a perfect introduction for bold first time backpackers or intermediates. This route is perfect for those looking to discover the solitude of the Yosemite backcountry by getting away from the Valley crowds. Highlights include swimming in pristine alpine lakes, flower-filled meadows, and stunning views from exposed ridgelines. *Dates are tentative based on backcountry permits, secured 6 months prior to departure. Please do not make travel arrangements until permits are confirmed. Travel Insurance is recommended.
Please read our updated COVID-19 trip safety precautions. You may find our cancellation policy at the bottom of this page.
Have a question about this trip? Email us at sboutdoors@sportsbasement.com.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Participants will be carrying their own gear as well as group gear (35 - 45 lbs total), roughly 6 miles each day over moderate to strenuous terrain with elevation drops and gains of up to 2,000 ft in a day at an altitude as high as 9,000 ft. While the route is not particularly difficult, the high altitude can make this trip extra challenging without proper conditioning. We recommend doing numerous day hikes and training with a 35 - 45 lb pack prior to your trip. Individuals should be in good physical condition (See our Training Recommendations). Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian participating on the trip and are subject to manager approval.
Trip 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 as long as it is safe to do so.
Day 1
Meet at the Yosemite Creek Trailhead Parking Lot at 9 am
Trip orientation and gear discussion
Hike 6 miles on gradual, but sometimes strenuous uphill terrain, then descend to one of the amazing Ten Lakes
Enjoy a trailside lunch
Make camp
Enjoy spectacular views of majestic high-country lakes
Enjoy a delicious, hot dinner along with a selection of hot beverages (e.g. coffee, tea, apple cider, hot chocolate)
Day 2
LAYOVER DAY
Enjoy a delicious, hot breakfast along with a selection of hot beverages (e.g. coffee, tea, apple cider, hot chocolate)
Rest day if desired (napping, sunbathing, and relaxing)
Optional day hikes to nearby peaks and lakes (1 to 9 mile options)
Enjoy a trailside lunch
Enjoy spectacular views of majestic high-country lakes
Enjoy a delicious, hot dinner along with a selection of hot beverages (e.g. coffee, tea, apple cider, hot chocolate)
Day 3
Enjoy a delicious, hot breakfast along with a selection of hot beverages (e.g. coffee, tea, apple cider, hot chocolate)
Break camp
Hike 6 miles on predominately downhill terrain after one short, steep ascent
Enjoy a trailside lunch
Return to the Yosemite Creek Trailhead Parking Lot
Congratulations! You just backpacked/hiked 12-21 miles with 3-5k elevation gain over 3 days!
Packing List
Required:
Lightweight 2 Person, 3-Season Tent (rentals available)
Backpacking Pack - minimum 60L (rentals available)
Lightweight, Compressible Sleeping Bag rated 15 to 25 degrees (rentals available)
Lightweight Sleeping Pad, inflatable recommended (rentals available)
Headlamp with fresh batteries (rentals available)
Mess Kit (bowl, insulated cup, and spork)
Sturdy Hiking Boots that are broken in
2-3L Water Bladder and 1L Bottle
Sunscreen, Sun Hat, Sunglasses
Hiking Pants/Shorts (lightweight, quick dry)
Wool or Synthetic Hiking Tops (quick dry)
Wool or Synthetic Hiking Socks, Liner Socks
Seasonal Layers: Baselayers, Fleece/Down Jacket, Winter Hat, Lightweight Gloves
Waterproof Rain Jacket and Pack Cover (Poncho at minimum)
Optional (but recommended):
Trekking Poles (rentals available)
Lightweight Day Pack
Lightweight Camp Shoes/Water Shoes
Camera/Phone
Luxury Item (small book/kindle, deck of cards, etc.)
Guide Gratuities (optional)
Do NOT bring:
Soap
Full Wallet and Set of Keys
Full sized Toothpaste, Deodorant, Sunscreen, etc. (Please only bring small packages of these things or re-package them yourself.)
Photo Gallery
$645 per person
Included:
Day-Use Entry Exemption to Yosemite (given to participants in the week leading up to trip)
Two Expert, Medically Trained Guides
Group First Aid Kit
All Wilderness Permits and Camping Fees
Bear Canisters
Group Cooking Gear (including stoves and fuel)
Water Filtration
Dinners, Breakfasts, Hot Beverages, and Trail Snacks
Pre-Trip Phone Briefing Approximately Two Weeks Prior to Trip
An Amazing Wilderness Experience
Not Included:
Transportation to and from Yosemite
Personal Backpacking Gear (see Gear List below; rentals available)
Lunches (although a Trail Snack Bag is provided)
Park Entrance Fees
Insurance of any kind
Guide Gratuities