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. (check out updated COVID-19 trip safety precautions)
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 4,000 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 training recommendations)
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.
Day 1
Meet at Yosemite Creek Trailhead parking lot at 9 am
Trip orientation and gear discussion
Hike 6 miles on a gradual (but at times steep) ascent, and then descend to one of the amazing Ten Lakes
Enjoy a trailside lunch
Make camp along a majestic lake
Enjoy a delicious, hot dinner
Day 2
Enjoy a delicious, hot breakfast
No official hiking - rest day if needed (napping, sunbathing, and relaxing)
Optional day hikes to nearby peaks and lakes
Enjoy a trailside lunch
Take in spectacular views of the basin
Enjoy a delicious, hot dinner
Day 3
Enjoy a delicious, hot breakfast
Break camp
Hike 6 miles on a steep ascent, then gradual descent to Yosemite Creek Trailhead parking lot
Enjoy a trailside lunch
Photo Gallery
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
Waterproof Rain Jacket and Pack Cover (poncho at minimum)
Seasonal Layers: Baselayers, Fleece/Down Jacket, Beanie, Gloves
Optional (but recommended):
Trekking Poles (rentals available)
Lightweight Day Pack
Camera
Ear Plugs
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.)
$545 per person
Included:
Expert, Medically Trained Guides
Group First Aid Kits
All Wilderness Permits and Camping Fees
Bear Canisters
Group Cooking Gear
Water Filtration Gear
Dinner & Breakfast meals and Trail Snacks (lunches eliminated due to COVID-19 contamination risks)
Not Included:
Transportation to and from Yosemite
Lunches (see above)
Personal backpacking gear (see Gear List below - rentals available)
Park Entrance Fees
Insurance of any kind
Guide Gratuities