Experience the quiet and astonishing beauty of Yosemite in the winter as we camp on the rim of the valley. Leave the crowds and tour buses of summer behind with each step as you snowshoe in to the stark, stunning Yosemite backcountry where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Yosemite's famous rock monuments from our camp on the valley rim.
DIFFICULTY LEVEL:
Participants will be carrying their own gear, 35 - 40lbs, for roughly 4 miles each day over moderate terrain. We recommend doing some day hikes with a 35 - 40lb pack prior to your trip. 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 - Saturday
Meet at the Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area parking lot at 10am
Trip orientation, gear discussion and lunch
Hike roughly 4 miles on moderate terrain
Make camp at Dewey Point
Enjoy a delicious, hot dinner by the rim of Yosemite Valley
Take an optional evening snowshoe hike under the stars
Day 2 - Sunday
Enjoy a delicious, hot breakfast
Take an optional morning snowshoe hike
Break camp
Hike 4 miles to the trailhead at Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area
Required:
Snow shoes with Trekking poles (provided)
Lightweight 2 person, 3-season tent (rentals available)
Backpacking pack - minimum 60L or 3700cu. in. (rentals available)
Lightweight, compressible sleeping bag rated 0 degrees (rentals available)
Lightweight sleeping pad - inflatable insulated recommended (rentals available)
Additional Foam pad (provided)
Headlamp (with fresh batteries)
Bowl, Cup, Spork (provided)
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots that are broken in
3L Water Bladder and 1L Bottle
Sunscreen, Sun hat
Sunglasses (for snow blindness)
Hiking pants/shorts, lightweight, quick dry
Waterproof pants
Wool or synthetic hiking specific socks, liner socks
Waterproof rain gear (Rain jacket + pack cover recommended, poncho at minimum)
Warm layers: baselayers, fleece, down jacket, beanie, gloves, insulated jacket/pants
Optional (but recommended):
Do NOT bring:
Soap
Full wallet and set of keys (especially rental sets)
Full sized toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen, etc.
Included:
Expert, medically trained guides
All permits and camping fees
All cooked and trail meals/snacks
Snowshoes and poles
Mess Kit with insulated mug
"Poddy" Bags (there is no soil typically)
An amazing winter wilderness experience
Not Included:
Transportation to and from the park
Personal backpacking gear (see gear list below - rentals available)
Park entrance fees
Insurance of any kind
Guide gratuities