Outside Magazine rated hiking the JMT with SYMG as one of the 50 greatest trips in the world. It spans 212 miles from Yosemite National Park to Mt. Whitney along the crest of the famed Sierra Nevada. Porter guides hike in 4 re-supplies of food during the journey, making the pack weight manageable each section. The JMT is, for many, a lifelong goal and accomplishment. Begin planning early if you're interested in joining us on a departure this year, our limited availability and small group size makes this trip fill quickly.

	Dates of Trip in 2018 July 7-29, 2018 (FULL - wait list available) Aug 11-Sept 2, 2018 (FULL - wait list available)
	Duration 23 days/ 22 nights
	Difficulty Strenuous

John Muir Trail Northbound: Florence Lake to Yosemite Valley

The John Muir Trail is one of the most famous trails in the world. It follows the rugged spine of the Sierra Nevada, passing by pristine alpine lakes, wildflower-strewn meadows and hulking glaciated peaks. This section will take us northward from Florence Lake to Yosemite Valley, tackling the imposing Selden, Silver and Donahue Passes, visiting Cathedral Lakes, and continuing to the Northern Terminus of the JMT: Yosemite Valley. The JMT Northbound takes you backpacking through what the guides call “Postcard Country” among the sparkling lakes beneath the imposing Ritter Range.

	Dates of trip in 2018 July 23 - August 4, 2018
	Duration 13 days / 12 nights
	Difficulty Strenuous

Yosemite Grand Traverse Backpack

This backpack trip has garnered much attention from the press and guests alike. With highlights including an ascent of Cloud's Rest, a section of the John Muir Trail, camp at the iconic Cathedral Lake and a nearly 60-mile hiking traverse through the remote heart of Yosemite it just may be the perfect week-long backpacking trip.

	Dates of trip in 2018 July 7-14, 2018 Aug 18-25, 2018 Sept 1-8, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 8 Days / 7 Nights
	Difficulty Challenging

Rae Lakes Loop

The John Muir Trail is one of the most classic trails in the world and what better way to experience it than with “The Best Outfitter On Earth!” On this classic week long backpacking trip we’ll navigate the accessible Rae Lakes Loop through the wilderness of King’s Canyon National Park. Along the way we’ll tackle the JMT’s famous Glen Pass (11,978’) and camp in the Rae Lakes Basin beneath the Painted Lady and Fin Dome. This moderately challenging route has huge payoffs, getting you deep into the heart of California’s superlative Sierra Nevada.

	Dates of trip in 2018 July 21-28, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 8 Days / 7 Nights
	Difficulty Challenging

Trans-Sierra Trail to Mt. Whitney

A grand crossing of the Sierra Nevada through Sequoia Nat'l Park, culminating in an ascent of Mt. Whitney from the west, coupled with dramatic hiking deep in the wilderness makes this backpacking trip one of our most spectacular adventures. This 83-mile Trans-Sierra crossing takes us through the most remote spots of the High Sierra. You'll climb Mt. Whitney from a direction that hikers seldomly see. Our travels take us on 3 famous trails: The John Muir Trail, The High Sierra Trail, and we exit the wilderness on the Pacific Crest Trail.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Aug 23-Sept 01, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 10 Days/9 Nights
	Difficulty Strenuous

Red Peak Loop

The Red Peak Pass Loop is a 52-mile route through the heart of Yosemite. It spends equal time the most remote and also most iconic regions of the park. Highlights include the rugged Red Peak Pass, hiking alongside the cascading "Wild and Scenic" Merced River, and a lakeside camp beneath the ice fields of the stunning Ottoway Lakes Basin. Expect challenging days, incredible scenery, and memories that will last a lifetime.

	Dates For Trip in 2018 July 30-August 5, 2018 August 13-August 19, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 7 days, 6 nights
	Difficulty Challenging

Yosemite High Passes Loop

The high-country lakes, peaks, and passes of Yosemite are truly spectacular and on this 50 mile loop we'll hike deep into the heart of this alpine environment. We'll travel mostly on trail while topping out over 4 high mountain passes -including Red Peak Pass at 11,180', the highest trail pass in Yosemite. Enjoying astounding views of Yosemite and the High Sierra in some of the least visited areas of the park make this trip yet another SYMG classic.

	Dates of trip in 2018 July 9-15, 2018 August 6-12, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 7 days/ 6 nights
	Difficulty Challenging

Alpine Lakes

Remote timberline lakes, spectacular views of the Sierra Crest, and an itinerary geared towards exploration of this seemingly untouched landscape all create an ideal setting for our most popular backpacking trip. Hike through the pristine high lakes basins of the Ansel Adams Wilderness, and there's even an option to summit one of the 10,000+ft peaks of Yosemite's Merced Range.

	Dates of trip in 2018 June 20-24, 2018 July 18-22, 2018 Aug 8-12, 2018 Aug 29-Sept 2, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 5 Days/ 4 Nights
	Difficulty Moderate / Basecamp

Yosemite Falls Loop

Lot of "bang for the buck," on this short trip, spending 3 days backpacking Yosemite Valley's North Rim. This is a wonderfully scenic trip with moderate days and highlights including hiking alongside the highest waterfall in North America (Yosemite Falls-2,425') and some of the best views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome in the entire Park.

	Dates of trip in 2018 May 26-28, 2018 June 1-3, 2018 June 22-24, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 3 Days/2 Nights
	Difficulty Moderate

Half Dome Backpacking Weekend

On this long-weekend style adventure we'll backpack from Yosemite Valley along the Merced River towards the summit of Half Dome. Along the way, we'll hike up the famous Mist Trail, camp in picturesque Little Yosemite Valley and travel a section of the iconic and historic John Muir Trail.

	Dates of trip in 2018 June 20-23, 2018 July 11-14, 2018 Sept 12-15, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 4 Days/3 Nights or 5 Days/4 Nights
	Difficulty Moderate

Half Dome and Cloud's Rest Backpack

After a night spent in scenic Yosemite Valley, we'll set off from the Tuolumne highcountry with our eyes toward the iconic summits of Clouds Rest (9,926') and Half Dome (8,836'). Along the way, we'll hike a section of the famous and historic John Muir Trail past two of the world's most iconic waterfalls back into Yosemite Valley.

	Dates of trip in 2018 June 27-30, 2018 Sept 5-8, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 4 Days/ 3 Nights or 5 Days/ 4 Nights
	Difficulty Moderate

High Tour

Journey into the spectacular sub-alpine lakes basins of the Ansel Adams Wilderness. With only 4 miles of backpacking to basecamp, this trip offers quick access to the high country, followed by several options for enjoying the rest of the trip: climbing a 10,000+ foot peak, touring the upper basin, or relaxing at the lake are all possible options.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Aug 9-12, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 4 days/3 nights
	Difficulty Moderate / Basecamp

Sierra High Route

National Geographic Adventure Magazine chose the Sierra High Route as one the Best New Trips for 2010 in their October issue. SYMG is the first company to offer a guided departure on the 195-mile extreme trek from Southern Kings Canyon to Northern Yosemite. The Sierra High Route is an official name for an unofficial "route" that runs mostly above timberline through the heart of the High Sierra. It is rumored that more people attempt and climb Mt Everest each year than attempt and complete the Sierra High Route.

	Dates of trip in 2018 TBD
	Duration 26 Days/ 25 Nights
	Difficulty Strenuous

Yosemite Grand Traverse with Horsepack Support

Combine the remote crossing of Yosemite on SYMG's award winning Yosemite Grand Traverse (chosen 25 Best New Trips in 2007 National Geographic Adventure Magazine) with the luxury of the mules carrying your gear and you have the makings of a memorable vacation! The 57 mile crossing starts in the Ansel Adam's Wilderness and ends in Yosemite's Tuoulmne Meadows. The terrain is moderate and the days are filled with just the right amount of physical challenge -including an optional summit of Cloud's Rest- coupled with time to enjoy the surroundings.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Jul 14-21, 2018 (1 spot remaining) Aug 25-Sep 1, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 8 days/ 7 nights
	Difficulty Moderate

John Muir Trail: Agnew Meadows to Tuolumne Meadows

Alpine lakes, wildflower-strewn meadows and glaciated peaks set the stage for an exciting and memorable adventure on one of the world's most classic hiking trails, the John Muir Trail. If that wasn't enough, we've arranged for mules to carry all the gear leaving you free to hike unburdened and just enjoy the scenery.

	Dates of trip in 2018 July 17-21, 2018 August 7-11, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 5 Days/4 Nights
	Difficulty Moderate

Mt Whitney with Horsepack Support

This trip if for those who would like to summit Mt Whitney while enjoying the remote backcountry wilderness of Sequoia National Park. Packstock will ease our burden as we travel between camps along scenic high-coutry sections of the famous John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail enroute to the highest summit in the lower 48: Mt Whitney (14,500').

	Dates of trip in 2018 August 12-18, 2018 (Permit Pending-Dec 01, 2017)- 1 Spot Remaining Custom dates & pricing often available!
	Duration 7 Days/ 6 Nights
	Difficulty Challenging

Ansel Adams Wilderness High Sierra Camp

The Ansel Adams Wilderness is filled with high peaks, crystal clear alpine lakes, glorious meadows, and amazing panoramas - a fitting tribute to one of America's most influential photographers and conservationists. The packstock carries all of the gear to our camp along a scenic lake, leaving you to hike unburdened deep into this pristine wilderness area.

	Dates of trip in 2018 July 4-8, 2018 Aug 1-5, 2018 (Family Departure) Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 5 Days/4 Nights
	Difficulty Moderate / Basecamp

Ales and Trails

Just in case you were unsure if Beer and the Backcountry go together, we're here to help! SYMG has teamed up with our fellow Yosemite-ites (Yosemitians?) South Gate Brewery to craft a truly unique trip within our favorite local haunt, the Ansel Adams Wilderness. High peaks, pristine alpine lakes, cold beers, and great company make for an unforgettable mountain experience.

	Dates of trip in 2018 July 11-15, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 5 Days/4 Nights
	Difficulty Moderate / Basecamp

Yosemite Valley Hiking Weekend

Follow in the footsteps of John Muir hiking within the wild landscapes of Yosemite. We'll be based from a well-appointed campground within Yosemite Valley and our days are spent hiking and exploring the southern portion of the park. Highlights include Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and the viewpoint at Glacier Point.

	Dates of trip in 2018 June 14-17, 2018 June 21-24, 2018
	Duration 4 days/3 nights
	Difficulty All levels

John Muir Trail Hiking Weekend

Tuolumne Meadows offers unparalleled access to the John Muir Trail of Yosemite National Park. We will spend 4 days exploring this dramatic alpine environment with it's unique granite domes, wildflower-strewn meadows, and glaciated landscapes.

	Dates of trip in 2018 July 12-15, 2018 July 26-29, 2018
	Duration 4 Days/3 Nights
	Difficulty All levels

Yosemite Valley Day Trip

Yosemite Hiking with a naturalist guide 'off the beaten path' through Yosemite Valley's majestic landscape of waterfalls, Granite monoliths, cascading streams, and lush meadows. Learn about the park with a guide who knows it intimately, and looks forward to sharing it with you. The days are all privately arranged and catered to your personal interest and abilities.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Daily May 1 - October 1. Call for availability in the off-season, 800-231-4575
	Duration 9am-5pm (8 hours)
	Difficulty All levels

Glacier Point and Yosemite's South Rim Day Hike

Yosemite's South Rim sits over 2,000 feet above the valley floor and commands stunning overlooks of Half Dome, El Capitan, the Yosemite High Country, and into the deep valley below. Join one of our private interpretive guides for a day exploring the mid-mountain forests and impressive overlooks, all catered to your own interests and abilities.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Daily May 1 - October 1. Call for availability in the off-season, 800-231-4575
	Duration 9am-5pm (8 hours)
	Difficulty All levels

Glacier Point and Mariposa Grove Day Trip

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and Glacier Point area pair well as a full-day outing full of old-growth forests, sweeping panoramic vistas and granite domes. Learn about the park with a guide who knows it intimately, and looks forward to sharing it with you. The days are all privately arranged and catered to your personal interest and abilities.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Daily May 1 - October 1. Call for availability in the off-season, 800-231-4575
	Duration 9am-5pm (8 hours )
	Difficulty All levels

Panorama Trail Yosemite Day Hike

The Panorama Trail above Yosemite Valley is a true classic! The 8.5-mile trail offers stunning views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls, beginning at the iconic Glacier Point and ending in Yosemite Valley 3,000 feet below.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Daily May 1 - October 1. Call for availability in the off-season, 800-231-4575
	Duration 8am-6pm
	Difficulty All Levels

Half Dome Yosemite Day Hike

Looming 4,800 feet above Yosemite Valley is the "Crown Jewel" of the Sierra, Half Dome. This granite monolith has captured the imagination of explorers, climbers and artists alike and is the most sought-after summit in Yosemite National Park. However, at over 17 miles round-trip and with thousands of feet in elevation gain and loss, a day-trip to the summit is certainly not a giveaway. For those that complete the journey, the spectacular views of Yosemite Valley and the Yosemite High Country are worth every hard-earned step. SYMG has been leading Half Dome trips for over 20 years and recruiting one of our experienced guides is perhaps the best way to maximize your chance of standing on the summit of Half Dome.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Dates will be announced after April 1, 2018
	Duration 6:00a-6:00p
	Difficulty Challenging

Rock Climbing Day Guides

Rock Climb with SYMG! We offer privately guided rock climbing day-trips to the best areas of Southern Yosemite. All gear is included and our professional guides are highly skilled, patient, and enjoyable people to spend the day with. Fun for all ages and abilities, no prior experience required!

	Dates of trip in 2018 Daily June 1 - October 1. Call for availability in the off-season, 800-231-4575
	Duration Full Day: 9:00am - 5:00pm Half Day: 9:00am - 1:00pm or 2:00pm-6:00pm
	Difficulty Beginner-Advanced

Rock Climbing Skills Day

Take your skills and technique a step further with a private rock climbing instruction. We will create a custom 8-hr class for you based on your own interests, abilities and experience. Learn about placing gear, building anchors, professional safety standards, advanced climbing techniques, rescue skills, multipitch systems or any number of other focuses.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Daily June 1 - October 1. Call for availability in the off-season, 800-231-4575
	Duration 9am-5pm (8 hours )
	Difficulty Beginner-Advanced

Rock Climbing Weekends

Come enjoy a weekend of climbing and companionship in the high country of southern Yosemite! Rock Weekends are a great way to learn a new area, increase your skill set & technique, or make the transition from the gym to outdoor climbing while having fun with like-minded others. In the southern Yosemite high country we'll have access to over 1,000 different routes of all styles and grades.

	Dates of trip in 2018 June 1-3, 2018 June 22-24, 2018 June 29-July 1, 2018 July 27-29, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 3 Days/2 Nights
	Difficulty Beginner-Advanced

Rock Climbing Camps

Take your skills and technique to the next level. Small groups, expert guides, scenic wilderness and lots of great climbing make for a memorable and well-rounded experience. In addition to lots of time on the rock, you'll learn about placing gear, building anchors, professional safety standards, advanced climbing techniques, rescue skills, and multi-pitch systems.

	Dates of trip in 2018 June 13-17, 2018 June 27-July 1, 2018 July 4-8, 2018 August 1-5, 2018 Custom dates & pricing available!
	Duration 5 Days/4 Nights
	Difficulty Beginner-Advanced

Hidden Patagonia

Join us in Chile for a trip to Valle Cochamo, the "Yosemite of South America". Along the way we'll trek beneath towering peaks, visit ancient Alerce trees, boat trip across glacial blue lakes, and visit with colorful local Andeans. Hiking in Northern Patagonia is uniquely untamed and offers the chance to meet local people and experience the traditional ways of life while immersing yourself in the natural marvels of the Patagonian landscape. Simply put, you've got to see this place!

	Date in Trip 2018 Feb 24-March 5, 2018 (FULL - waitlist available) Date in Trip 2019 Feb 23-March 4, 2019
	Duration 10 Days/9 Nights + optional Torres del Paine trip extension
	Difficulty Moderate

Classic Torres del Paine

Within the famously rugged landscape of the Southern Patagonian Andes lies one of the world's most iconic national parks: Torres del Paine. The park's vast wilderness is filled with spectacularly azure alpine lakes set amongst cascading glaciers, and soaring monolithic pinnacles standing above the undulating, golden hills of the Chilean steppe. Trekking through this pristine wilderness offers hikers unparalleled vistas of the granitic spires of Las Torres, the massive, ever-shifting Grey Glacier, and the dynamic hanging glaciers of French Valley.

	Dates of Trip in 2018 March 05-10, 2018 (FULL - waitlist available) Dates of Trip in 2019 March 4-9, 2019
	Duration 6 days, 5 nights + Optional Hidden Patagonia Extension
	Difficulty Moderate

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is considered by many one the most beautiful and accessible eco-adventures in the world. World class jungle ecosystems, wildlife viewing, rafting adventures, beaches, highland volcanoes are just some of the fun to be had. There is so much to do in this country that it is hard to see if it all in one trip, but our 7-day adventure is designed to give you a wonderful slice of the people, the diverse beauty and wildlife, and the exciting adventures Costa Rica has to offer.

	Dates of trip in 2018 Call to arrange your departure date, 800-231-4575.
	Duration 7 Days/6 Nights
	Difficulty Leisurely-moderate hiking, sightseeing, river rafting, jungle canopy activities, etc.

Private and Custom Trips
Let us plan the perfect adventure for you! At SYMG, we specialize in planning and executing memorable private and custom mountain trips. From expedition style John Muir Trail backpacking adventures, to family-oriented basecamp outings, our guides and staff will ensure that your trip exceeds all of your expectations.

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Student Programs

Student Programs
SYMG offers unparalleled programming options for schools, travel camps, and outdoor programs both in Yosemite National Park and in the Sierra National Forest. Our guides have the experience and knowledge to instruct students on technical skills, natural history, ecology, land sciences, interpersonal communication, and group dynamics. Our highly customizable itineraries and progressive menu planning allow SYMG to meet any group’s needs. Rock climbing, day hiking, overnight camps and backpacking trips are all possibilities.

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Corporate Events

Corporate Events
From our extensive experience comes the ability to design highly successful programs and events and an ability to seamlessly execute these outings. Whether your goals are team building, small group interaction, or large group promotional events, SYMG will make your vision a reality.

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Yosemite & High Sierra Trips, Tours

Backpacking

Hiking with Packstock

Yosemite Adventure Camping

Yosemite Day Hiking

Rock Climbing

International Trips

Private and Custom Trips

Student Programs

Corporate Events