Yosemite Backpacking Trips

Backpacking - Alpine Lakes - Itinerary

  • ABOUT THE TRIP:
    The high country lakes and peaks of the Ansel Adams Wilderness along the southern Yosemite border are truly spectacular.  This trip takes you deep into a seemingly unspoiled subalpine environment where granite peaks, clear lakes, cascading streams, and wildflower filled meadows captivate all who travel here.  This trip is for those with some hiking experience who would like to enjoy the dramatic landscapes of Southern Yosemite while travelling with a professional, friendly, and knowledgeable guide.  We'll hike both on trail and off, venturing off the beaten track to visit places seldom seen by most visitors to Yosemite.

    ACCOMMODATIONS:
    Our first night is spent in chalet lodging on beautiful Bass Lake.  Facilities include lakeside pool and hot tub, as well as tennis courts, market and restaurants.  Chalets contain two queen beds and a fold out queen and are shared among trip participants (3-4 per chalet) unless otherwise arranged.

    GROUP SIZE:
    3-12 participants with 1-2 guides.

    GRADE:
    Moderate: On- and off-trail hiking or backpacking on uneven terrain with modest to difficult climbs. These trips are up to five days in duration and the commitment level varies by trip.

    EQUIPMENT:
    SYMG can supply all needed personal (backpacks, sleeping bags, ground pads, tents) and group camping equipment if requested on the registration form.  There is no additional charge for this service. You may print from our web page a detailed gear list, directions, and this itinerary.

    MEALS:
    Meals begin with lunch the second day and are provided through breakfast and trail snacks the last day.  Our "Backcountry Gourmet" meals have been acclaimed in Sunset Magazine.

    COST OF THE TRIP:
    $695 per person.
    Optional single supplement for lodging $125.00/per person. Forced single $75.00.

    YOUR COST INCLUDES:
    Meals provided, camping gear, shared accommodations and guide(s).

    NOT INCLUDED:
    Personal gear, meals at the Pines Resort, tips for guides (10-20% of trip fee), transportation, optional trip cancellation insurance.

    PREPARATION:
    We recommend increasing your exercise routine in the month prior to the trip to increase your cardiovascular/aerobic ability.  Hiking, with a backpack, preferably on hills and off pavement is excellent practice.

    Day 1:
    Check in at the Pines Resort on Bass Lake anytime after 4 PM.  Meet your guides in the Pines Lobby at 6PM for a brief trip orientation.  Choose from several local restaurants for dinner.

  • Day 2:
    After breakfast we drive to our remote trailhead and prepare for the day. We'll hike approximately 6 miles to one of the Alpine Lakes where we'll make camp.   In the evening there is time to swim or fish as your guide(s) prepare dinner. 

  • Days 3 & 4:
    Choose from several options each day.  Hike to Madera or Sing Peak, the upper lakes, or stay near camp and relax, fish, read or photograph. Stargazing and campfires round out spectacular days in the High Sierra.

  • Day 5:
    An early breakfast and departure will put us back at the resort on Bass Lake with time to use the hot tubs or a swim before heading home.

  • Please call the SYMG office with any questions ~ 800 231-4575

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