Length
30 mi
Elevation Gain
7,438 ft
This 30-mile loop in Yosemite National Park is for experienced backpackers. We’ll start at the valley floor and hike in a sweeping loop around Half Dome.
Day one will be tough. Let’s not sugarcoat it. The first two miles are almost totally flat, just to lull you into a false sense of ease. Then it’s up (and up and up) the Snow Creek Trail toward Tenaya Lake. Over the next two miles we’ll climb 2,300 feet. At times the trail grade will be as steep as 30%. The final two miles are less punishing as we climb another 1,200 feet. For reference, we’ll be almost eye level with Half Dome, which will be due south of us on the opposite side of the valley when we settle in to camp.
Day two is a relatively easy trek along the north rim of the valley. About four miles in we’ll pass Olmsted Point. Some of the most iconic photos of Half Dome are taken here. 45 minutes later we’ll reach the apex of our loop (geographically, not by elevation) as we cross the southeast end of Tenaya lake. If the water is low enough we may be treated to an impressive hidden trail feature (see photo above). If not, we’ll be wading knee-deep in snow melt as we make our way across the watershed. From there it’s just a mile and a half to a secluded pond where we’ll make camp for the night.
The view from Clouds Rest Peak
Day three takes us to 9,935 feet, the highest point in our journey. We’ll be hiking the Clouds Rest Trail, summiting the stunning Clouds Rest Peak along the way. From there we will have epic views down on Half Dome and across Yosemite Valley.
Not only and does this mark the high point of our journey, but the rest of the trip is completely downhill. From Clouds Rest Peak its just 90 minutes to the junction with the John Muir Trail, where we will make camp for the night.
Day four is out day. We’ll follow the storied John Muir Trail for a few miles then take a short detour to Nevada Falls. After that, we’ll join the Mist Trail to literally hike through the mist of Vernal Fall as we descend the Giant Staircase to Yosemite Valley.
Scouts must be 14+ to participate, in strong physical condition, and mentally prepared to deal with the challenges of backcountry backpacking.
We will be carrying all of our food, fuel and gear for the trip, making backpacking even more strenuous.
Itinerary
Tuesday, July 8
Pack Check
Tuesday, July 29
Pack Impound
Wednesday, July 30
7pm Depart SF
10:30pm Arrive YNP
Thursday, July 31
9am Ranger Check-in
9:30am Embark
4pm Make Camp
Friday, August 1
9am Resume Hiking
2:30pm Make Camp
Saturday, August 2
9am Resume Hiking
4pm Make Camp
Sunday, August 3
9am Resume Hiking
2pm Trailhead
6:30pm Back in SF
