Day 1

Meet at Mono Meadows Trailhead  

• You'll meet your guides at the Mono Meadows Trailhead off Glacier Point Rd.
• After gear checks and introductions you'll hike to camp
• Expect an easy first day to help you get your trail legs
• The alpine trail meanders through wildflower meadows, past crystal clear creeks, and we'll camp near a beautiful meadow perfect for stargazing
• Set up camp and take a refreshing dip in the creek
• Enjoy a freshly cooked backcountry gourmet dinner 
• Expect just over 3 miles and 290 ft of elevation gain

Day 2

Half Dome Summit Day

• We'll have breakfast than set off for our next camp at Little Yosemite Valley
• Expect 5.1 miles and 1,110 ft of elevation gain to camp
• Set up camp, and then relax, take a nap, or take a refreshing dip in the Merced River - Rest up before our afternoon sunset hike
• Pack your day pack, we'll set off on our hike to the summit of Half Dome
• Our expert guides come armed with pro-level trail wisdom, crowd-dodging hacks, and the kind of insider savvy that turns “just another hike” into a triumphant bucket-list checkmark
• Expect 7 miles and 3,000 ft of elevation gain

Day 3

Clouds Rest and hidden plunge pools

• Start the day off with a delicious breakfast prepared by your private backcountry chefs
• After fueling up, set off for the summit of Clouds Rest
• Enjoy the 360 views of the surrounding high peaks, Tenaya Canyon, Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Tuolumne
• Expect roughly 10 miles and 4,000 feet of elevation gain
• After we return to camp, we can take an easy hike out to a hidden swimming hole that comes complete with it's own waterslide

Day 4

Back to the trailhead

• We'll enjoy our last breakfast together before breaking down camp and heading down to Nevada Falls
• Admire the magnificent view from atop the falls
• Soak in the views as we pass along the Panorama Trail one last time
• Arrive back at the trailhead, legs tired, spirits high, and already planning your next escape into the wild
• Expect 8.6 miles and 2,600 feet of elevation gain

Packing List

Gear

3-season backpacking tent (under 5 lbs)
Minimum 20 degree sleeping bag (regardless of the forecast - trust us!) 
Inflatable sleeping pad 
Head Lamp
Personal toiletries (travel size)
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
Mess kit (spork, bowl, and insulated cup)
Carry 2 to 3L of water (pre-filled before we meet)
Hard Nalgene type 1L water bottle (this is required, but can be counted as 1 of your 2-3L of water
Minimum 60L backpack (you may need to fit a large bear can that we'll provide you with in your pack)
Pack cover or poncho big enough to cover your pack
Gloves for the cables (gloves with rubberized palms work great)

Clothes

Clothing (must be synthetic or wool and quick-dry, NO COTTON)
1 hiking pant and 1 hiking tops
Insulating layers - base layers like thermals (to sleep in), lightweight warm fleece/ down jacket
Underwear
2 or 3 pairs of wool or synthetic socks
Beanie
Waterproof rain jacket or bring a poncho large enough to fit your backpack under
Hiking boots or trail runners that are broken in and not brand new
Lunches and snacks for the duration of your trip (some supplemental snacks will be provided)

Optional

Trekking poles (recommended)
Lightweight day pack (recommended)
Swimsuit
Chemical hand warmers
Down booties
Camp pillow
Earplugs
Sock liners - can help prevent blisters
Water shoes/ flip flops (recommended)
Insect repellant
Freezer ziplock bags to keep things dry
A gallon size ziplock bag for your food to stay organized (recommended)
Guide gratuities

Check out our other trips:

FAQs

Will I get eaten by a bear?
Nope! There has only been ONE fatal bear attack in California history. Just like Yogi and Boo-Boo, they are just after your food.

Do I need backpacking experience to join this trip?
Nope! This trip is beginner-friendly, though you should be comfortable hiking several miles a day with a pack. Our guides are here to support you every step (and steep switchback) of the way.

What kind of shape should I be in?
You don’t need to be a superhero, but a decent fitness base helps. We recommend being used to hiking with a heavy pack.

What do I need to bring?
We’ll send a full packing list, but in short: you bring your lunches, snacks, personal gear (like backpack, sleeping bag/pad, clothes, etc.), and we’ll provide all group gear and breakfasts/ dinners on the trail.

What about food? Are we eating freeze-dried meals?
Nope! We believe delicious food belongs in the backcountry too. Expect fresh, hearty breakfasts and dinners and some supplemental trail snacks designed to keep you fueled.

How much weight will I be carrying?
Plan on carrying around 40 lbs, which includes your personal gear and a portion of shared group items. We’ll help you keep things light and pack smart.

Do I need to carry all the group gear?
Nope. Your guides will divvy up shared items fairly. We’ll keep it reasonable so no one ends up feeling like a pack mule.

Are there bathrooms?
Welcome to nature’s restroom! We’ll follow Leave No Trace principles, and your guides will teach you how to do it respectfully (and comfortably). LYV has a few pit toilets!

What happens if the weather is bad?
This trip runs rain or shine, unless conditions are unsafe. Our guides keep a close eye on the forecast and will adjust the route if needed.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
We can accommodate most common dietary needs, just let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.

Can children (minors) participate?
This adventure is best suited for adults and older teens due to the physical demands and remote wilderness setting. Minors may be allowed on a case-by-case basis with prior approval, and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the trip. If you're considering bringing a teen, reach out to us before booking. We're happy to chat and see if it’s a good fit! 

Is this guided trip safe?
We've taken precautions to severely mitigate your risk. The trip is led by professional guides who are certified Wilderness First Responders and trained in emergency medical care. We also carry emergency two-way satellite communication.

How big is the group?
We keep group sizes small for a more intimate and enjoyable experience. Imagine a group of new friends, not a conga line of hikers.

How do permits work?
We’ve got them covered. You just show up with your pack—we’ll take care of the logistics.

Can I rent gear?
While we do not have gear for you to rent, we can suggest stores that do offer rental gear. We’ll help point you in the right direction so you don’t have to buy gear just for this trip.

Where do we meet, and how do I get there?
The exact meeting time and directions will be included in your pre-trip info packet that will be emailed to you.

Questions?  Contact us @ 415-776-7455 or email info@urbandiversion.com