Three Days Under Granite: Camping Yosemite’s Hidden Trails from San Francisco
A compact, guided camping trip that balances Yosemite’s icons with quieter backcountry moments
The van eases out of San Francisco before dawn, headlights catching the last of the city’s fog as i-580 turns inland toward the Sierra. You watch the skyline shrink and, beyond a ribbon of orchards and foothills, the air starts to smell different—colder, drier, touched with pine. On this 3-day camping adventure, the big names—Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls—loom like punctuation, but the sentence of the trip is written between them: quiet trails, river swims, and nights under a vault of stars that feels impossibly near.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for granite-to-river swings
Temperatures vary widely from sunlit granite to shaded riverbanks—bring a warm midlayer and sun protection.
Footwear matters
Choose sturdy hiking shoes with good grip for granite slabs and wet crossings—trail runners okay for summer; boots better for spring and fall.
Hydrate for altitude and exertion
Carry a 2–3 liter hydration system and use provided water treatment or fill at known park sources; mountain air is dry and deceptive.
Respect wildlife and camp etiquette
Store food in bear-safe lockers or bags, keep campsites clean, and give animals wide berth to minimize habituation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A shady meadow route that bypasses the busiest overlooks and is excellent for wildflower viewing (guide-selected)
- •A boulder-ringed pool downstream of main falls that’s ideal for a late-afternoon dip and reflection
Wildlife
Mule deer, Peregrine falcon
Conservation Note
Yosemite manages heavy visitation with quotas and permits in select areas—pack out all trash, use designated food storage, and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile meadows and waterways.
Yosemite’s protection began with the 1864 Yosemite Grant, a precedent-setting law that set aside Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove for public use and conservation.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Waterfalls at peak flow, Wildflower displays, Cool hiking weather
Challenges: Trail runoff and muddy sections, Snow at higher elevations, Variable road conditions
Spring showcases Yosemite’s waterfalls and lush meadows but can include wet, slippery trails and lingering snow at higher passes.
summer
Best for: Swimming in mountain pools, Long daylight hours, Stable weather
Challenges: Crowds in valley areas, Hot midday temperatures, Lower water levels later in season
Summer offers warm camp nights and great swimming, though main trailheads can be busy—early starts help avoid crowds.
fall
Best for: Crisp, clear light for photography, Fewer visitors, Cooler hiking temps
Challenges: Shorter daylight hours, Early snowfall possible at high elevations, Some services reduced
Fall pares down crowds and sharpens the landscape’s color and light; temperatures cool quickly after sunset.
winter
Best for: Snowy landscapes and solitude, Clear, cold photography, Potential for snowshoeing alternatives
Challenges: Road closures and icy conditions, Limited services inside park, Requires winter gear and skills
Winter transforms Yosemite into a quiet, snowy place—beautiful but logistically demanding with possible closures and the need for winter-specific equipment.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoes or bootsEssential
Provide traction for granite slabs, creek crossings, and uneven terrain.
Hydration reservoir (2–3 L)Essential
Keeps water accessible during hikes and helps prevent dehydration.
Warm midlayer and lightweight waterproofEssential
Nights can be cold and mountain weather shifts fast—pack a warm, compressible layer and shell.
Headlamp with fresh batteriesEssential
Hands-free light for early starts, camp chores, and bathroom runs at night.
Common Questions
Do I need prior camping experience to join?
No—this trip provides camping gear and guided instruction, making it suitable for first-time campers, though being comfortable sleeping outdoors is helpful.
What’s included in the price?
Guided transport from San Francisco, guided hikes, two nights of group camping gear, meals as listed by the operator, and park logistics are included; check the provider for exact meal lists and exclusions.
How strenuous are the hikes?
Hikes are moderate overall—expect 3–8 mile days with variable elevation; routes are chosen to match group ability and to highlight scenic features without overtaxing participants.
Are permits or park passes required?
A park entrance fee applies (often included by the operator); if you plan to visit independently before/after the tour, purchase a Yosemite park pass in advance to avoid lines.
What wildlife precautions should I take?
Store food properly in provided lockers or canisters, never feed wildlife, and maintain a safe distance—bear encounters are rare but preventable with correct food storage.
Can I charge devices during the trip?
Charging is limited; guides may offer a centralized charging opportunity at the start or end of days, but bring portable battery packs for longer usage.
What to Pack
Hiking shoes (support on granite), Hydration reservoir (stay hydrated), Warm midlayer (cool nights), Portable battery (limited charging)
Did You Know
The 1864 Yosemite Grant, signed by Abraham Lincoln, set aside Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove for public use—an important precursor to the U.S. National Park system.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Reserve park entry or lodging early in peak season; 2) Start hikes before 8 a.m. to avoid crowds and heat; 3) Use bear-safe storage for all food; 4) Bring cash or card for optional park fees and souvenirs
Local Flavor
After a day on the trail, head to the village or nearby El Portal for wood-fired pizza, locally brewed beer, or a hearty bowl of chili at a café—many outfitters and restaurants celebrate seasonal mountain produce and offer a chance to swap trail stories.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport/major hub: San Francisco (SFO) / Trailhead pickup: Typically San Francisco meetup, 4–5 hour drive to Yosemite depending on traffic / Driving distance from nearest town: Mariposa ~40–60 minutes to valley rim / Cell service: Patchy in the valley, intermittent to none in backcountry / Permits/passes: National Park entrance fee required; camping permits managed by operator
Sustainability Note
Yosemite is a high-traffic national treasure—follow Leave No Trace, use provided bear-resistant storage, avoid trampling meadows, and stick to designated routes to prevent erosion and protect sensitive habitats.