Yosemite & Tuolumne Hiker: Peaks, Creeks and Waterfalls
Yosemite National Park & Tuolumne River Hiker: Overview
Give us five days and we’ll take you to the summit of one of the West’s most iconic rock formations, down California’s crown jewel of whitewater rivers, across lush, highcountry meadows and amongst some of the largest living organisms on the planet. The first two days of O.A.R.S.' newest itinerary are spent descending the Wild and Scenic Tuolumne River, spilling from the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra. We’ll then travel to our private “basecamp” at Evergreen Lodge, an historic accommodation nestled in the towering woods just outside of Yosemite National Park. Each day, local naturalists lead us on guided hikes into Yosemite, including a visit to Tuolumne Meadows, two of the park's giant sequoia groves and a climactic 17-mile hike up Half Dome. All adventures are capped off under a starry night sky as you’ve never seen it before.
Yosemite National Park & Tuolumne River Hiker: Itinerary at a Glance
- Meet in the quaint community of Groveland and transfer to the Class IV Tuolumne River
- The first stretch of whitewater brings three of the Tuolumne’s most notorious rapids: Rock Garden, Nemesis and Rams Head
- Stop mid-afternoon to make camp, hike and relax
- Day two brings more exciting whitewater as we continue down the Wild & Scenic Tuolumne River
- Transfer to our private camp at historic Evergreen Lodge, enjoying such amenities as an activity center, hot showers and a rustic bar
- Day three takes us to Yosemite’s high country, Tuolumne Meadows, where we hike 8 miles round-trip to Cathedral Lake, returning to our private camp at Evergreen
- The following day we take it easy, strolling among the giant sequoia groves, as we prepare for Day five’s 16.5-mile round-trip hike to the top of Half Dome
- Return for one last evening at the Evergreen Lodge for a final dinner together and celebratory cocktails at the bar before settling into a much-needed night of rest
Although the Yosemite & Tuolumne Hiker is only moderately strenuous overall, the final day includes a steep, very challenging 17-mile roundtrip hike to the summit of Yosemite's Half Dome (4800 vertical feet). You will encounter stone stairs and many switchbacks along a steep trail that also includes sections of exposed granite slopes. Therefore, it is not recommended for people who have a fear of heights or children under the age of 12 years. Participants need to take the time to get into very good physical condition before beginning this trip. The hike requires an early morning start time and generally takes about 10 - 12 hours. If you feel that this particular hike may be too strenuous for you, please call us to discuss alternative options.
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