- July 18–20
- August 14–16
- September 18–19
Join us on this 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.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL:
Participants will be carrying their own gear, 35 - 45lbs, 5 to 7 miles each day over easy to moderate terrain with SIGNIFICANT elevation drops and gains of up to 4,000 ft in a day, and altitude as high as 9,000ft. 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 - 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.
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.
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
Lunch, Dinner 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, Lunch & dinner 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
Required:
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)
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):
Camera
Ear plugs
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.
Included:
Breakfast, Lunch 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
Not Included:
Transportation to and from the park
Park entrance fees
Personal backpacking gear (see list below: all rentable at Sports Basement)
Insurance of any kind
Guide gratuities