This spectacular W.I.L.D. backpacking trip includes the Yosemite High Country and the epic Yosemite Valley. We will hike part of the legendary John Muir Trail. Along our hike, we will see the brightest blue skies, wonderful wildlife, blooming wildflowers, crystal blue lakes, thundering waterfalls, and the greenest trees on the planet. Just sleeping outside for four nights will be a treat, as will be the jaw-dropping view of Yosemite Valley from the top of the renowned and challenging Half Dome. But wait, we will also plan on summiting Clouds Rest and look across and down on Half Dome, a lofty, breathtaking vantage point. Add to all this the W.I.L.D. group interaction plus the opportunity to donate a fresh water well to a waiting village in need, and you have a bucket list experience. The back country permits are obtained, the Half Dome passes are secured. Are you in? If you do one backpack trip in Yosemite – make it this one!

“Few places in this world are more dangerous than home. Fear not, therefore, to try the mountain passes. They will kill care, save you from deadly apathy, set you free, and call forth every faculty into vigorous, enthusiastic action.” – John Muir

Itinerary

• Thursday, September 24, 2020 – Leave San Diego early morning, drive to Yosemite Valley. We will sleep in the backpacker site the first night in the valley near Lower Pines Campground.
• Friday, September 25, 2020 – 5 miles 2100 ft. elevation gain. Today’s destination is Little Yosemite Valley Campground. We will sleep here Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. There are well maintained composting toilets and bear lockers (no need to obtain a bear cannister). The slow-ish moving river provides a place to cool off and a place to filter drinking water. On our way up to our campsite we will be captivated by the Merced River cascading over Vernal and Nevada Falls on its way to Yosemite Valley. Rest easy tonight knowing you won’t be hauling your backpack up anymore hills. Two days of epic day hikes await us!
• Saturday, September 26, 2020 – Half Dome hike: 7 miles roundtrip, 2800 ft. elevation gain. We will leave our backpacks at camp in favor of daypacks or hydro packs and our gloves for the cables. Lunch will be enjoyed on top of Half Dome as we soak in the magnificent view of Yosemite Valley.
• Sunday, September 27, 2020 – Clouds Rest hike:12 miles, 3800 ft elevation gain. Today’s hike is the most challenging of the trip but again it will be with a small pack, water and lunch. Most consider the view from Clouds Rest to top that from Half Dome. Few people can say they have looked down on Half Dome but after this summit you will be able to describe this unbelievable 360° view.
• Monday, September 28, 2020 – 5 miles. After breakfast we retrace our steps down to Yosemite Valley coming out at Happy Isles. We will once again hike along the Merced River and be awestruck by the thunderous Nevada and Vernal Falls. Upon arriving back in the Valley, we will stop for a cold drink or a scoop of ice cream before getting on the road to return to San Diego.

Mandatory Qualifying Steps for W.I.L.D. Half Dome/Clouds Rest Backpack Trip

1. Love adventure
2. Be a team player
3. Complete and submit Application and Liability Release Form
4. Make payment
5. Print out Packing List and Trip Tips
6. Complete Qualifying Hike (date and time to be announced)
7. Attend Pre-Trip Meeting (date and time to be announced)