WOW Backcountry Series: Yosemite National Park

Join us for a 4 day backcountry adventure in Yosemite National Park, tackling the iconic North Rim Trail. This unforgettable trek follows the quiet, less-traveled rim of Yosemite Valley, guiding us through high alpine terrain, open meadows, and dramatic cliffside overlooks with nonstop views of El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the vast wilderness beyond. Expect rugged miles, big elevation, and expansive panoramas paired with remote camps, golden sunsets over the Valley, and incredible stargazing far from the crowds.

TRIP OVERVIEW

• Location: North Rim Trail

• Total Distance: 22 miles point-to-point

• Elevation Gain: 5,000ft

• Trip Rating: HARD – This route includes steep inclines, high elevations, exposed sections, and some challenging terrain. Participants should have previous backpacking experience and be in great physical condition.

WHO SHOULD JOIN

This trip is perfect for:

• Hikers with previous backpacking experience

• Those looking for a challenging, high-elevation trek

• Past students of our beginner backpacking course

ITINERARY

• Day 1: Meet at the designated Yosemite trailhead and begin our ascent onto the North Rim. Hike through forested switchbacks and open granite terrain as we climb above Yosemite Valley, with early views of El Capitan and Yosemite Falls. Set up camp along the rim and settle in for our first night overlooking the Valley below.

• Day 2: Break camp and continue along the North Rim Trail, traversing high alpine terrain with expansive views of Half Dome, North Dome, and the Cathedral Range. Expect rolling miles, exposed sections, and long scenic stretches along the rim. Arrive at our next backcountry campsite and enjoy sunset views and stargazing in true Yosemite wilderness.

• Day 3: Pack up and continue deeper into the North Rim, passing through quieter, less-traveled sections of the park. This day offers some of the most remote-feeling miles of the trek, with wide-open panoramas, granite slabs, and peaceful meadows. Set up camp for our final night and enjoy a reflective evening in the backcountry.

• Day 4: Break camp and complete the final miles of the North Rim Trail, descending back toward the trailhead. Take in last views of Yosemite Valley and surrounding peaks before wrapping up the trek and heading home.

  
  

A pre-trip virtual Zoom session will be held to review logistics, trail conditions, permits, gear, food planning, and to answer any questions to ensure everyone feels confident and prepared.

REQUIRED GEAR & ESSENTIALS

• Backpacking gear: backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, pillow, tent

• Food for all meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

• At least 2 liters of water (water sources are limited on the island)

• Hiking boots/shoes with good traction

• Weather-appropriate layers, including warm clothing for cold nights

• Headlamp or flashlight

• Trekking poles

• Personal prescription medications

• Toiletries and rain gear

• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm

• Utensils, mug, and snacks

GEAR & FOOD PACKAGES AVAILABLE

• Gear Rental Package: Includes backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, and bear canister.

• Food Package: Three days’ worth of backpacking meals and snacks.

ABOUT OUR GUIDES

Our guides have the following certifications:

• Wilderness Medecine

• CPA/AED

• Food Handlers Safety

• Campfire Safety

Safety is always our top priority. A signed liability waiver is required to attend this trip.

CANCELLATION POLICY (Summary)

Way Out Wild reserves the right to cancel, reschedule, or modify multi-day trips due to weather, safety concerns, environmental conditions, land-management decisions, inadequate enrollment, or other circumstances beyond our control. No refunds are issued due to weather or other uncontrollable conditions.

Participant cancellations:

• Upon booking to 30 days prior: Credit toward a future trip minus a 25% cancellation fee

• Within 30 days: No refunds or credits

  
  

Way Out Wild is not responsible for travel-related costs. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

CONTACT

For questions, reach out via email or Instagram.

• Email: support@wayoutwild.org

• Instagram: Wayoutwild_

  
  

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