Conquer Half Dome: 4-Day Guided Yosemite Backpacking Adventure
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4 days
Fitness Level
You should have a high level of fitness: regular uphill hiking, backpacking experience, and comfort with sustained climbs and long daily mileage.
Overview
A four-day guided trek that bundles wilderness permits, backcountry meals, and cable-supported summiting of Half Dome into one seamless Yosemite experience. Hike, swim, and stand on Clouds Rest with expert guides who handle logistics and safety.
Conquer Half Dome: 4-Day Guided Yosemite Backpacking Adventure
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Dawn breaks over Mono Meadows and the first light turns granite to a hard, pale gold. Guides check harnesses and tighten pack straps while the meadow around them shakes off night chill; a creek dares you to wade in and a pica squeaks from the rocks like a small alarm clock. Over the next four days you'll move from that quiet alpine edge through Little Yosemite Valley, press your palms against the Half Dome cables, stand on Clouds Rest watching the valley unfold below you, and slide into a secret granite waterslide—each moment arranged so the landscape feels earned, not rushed.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early for Half Dome
Begin the Half Dome summit push before dawn to avoid mid-day heat and cable crowds; expect cooler temperatures at higher elevation.
Bring a sturdy pair of boots
Granite can be slippery when wet—boots with aggressive tread and ankle support make the cable approach and river crossings safer.
Hydration and electrolytes
Carry 2–3 liters and use provided water filters at camp; electrolytes help on long climbs and high-exertion days.
Store food properly
Use bear canisters where required and follow your guide's food storage rules to avoid wildlife encounters.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Pika
History
The Ahwahnechee people lived and traveled through these valleys for generations; Yosemite later became central to the U.S. conservation movement shaped by early naturalists and climbers.
Conservation
Permits and strict food storage rules limit human impact; follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out what you pack in to protect fragile alpine meadows.
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Adventure Hotspots in Yosemite Valley
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
High-traction boots protect ankles and grip wet granite on the cables and river crossings.
Daypack (25–35L)
Carry water, snacks, rain layer, and camera for summit pushes and day hikes from camp.
Headlamp with extra batteries
Early starts and late evenings at camp mean reliable light for cooking and moving before sunrise.
Light insulating jacket (down or synthetic)
Thin but warm layers are essential for chilly mornings and summit winds on Half Dome and Clouds Rest.
fall specific