Yosemite Classic Camping Trips: 5-Day Guided Camping and Hiking in Yosemite Valley
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and comfort with sustained climbs and day hikes of 6–8 miles are recommended.
Overview
Spend five days camping and hiking with guides who shuttle you to Yosemite’s top viewpoints—from the Mist Trail’s waterfall spray to Sentinel Dome’s 360-degree summit. This small-group trip packs iconic climbs, glacier-polished granite, and a sequoia grove into a manageable, guided adventure.
Yosemite Classic Camping Trips: 5-Day Guided Camping and Hiking in Yosemite Valley
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The first light in Yosemite Valley slices across granite like a slow blade: a cool, clear morning that reveals the ice-polished faces of El Capitan and the wash of mist drifting off Vernal Fall. You meet at Curry Village, sling a daypack and join a small group as the guide sketches the route—four nights under canvas, five days of hikes that stitch together the park’s most iconic ledges, waterfalls, and sequoia groves.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Expect varied terrain
Trails range from flat valley walks to steep, exposed sections—be ready for packed dirt, granite slabs, and wet rock near falls.
Hydrate and filter
Carry at least 2–3 liters and a small filter or tablets; water is available but purification is often necessary.
Bear-safe food storage
Follow park food-storage rules and use provided canisters or hang systems; do not keep food in tents.
Footwear and traction
Sturdy hiking boots with good traction are essential for wet granite on the Mist Trail and rocky descents.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black bear
- Mule deer
History
Yosemite was set aside as a protected area in the late 19th century; conservationists like John Muir championed federal protection that led to the park’s 1890 designation.
Conservation
Yosemite enforces food-storage rules and campsite regulations to protect wildlife; practice Leave No Trace and minimize campfire impact to preserve fragile alpine meadows.
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Adventure Hotspots in Yosemite Valley (Half Dome Village)
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Provides traction on wet granite and support for sustained ascents and descents.
Daypack (20–30L)
Carries water, layers, snacks, and a small first-aid kit for daily hikes.
Water bottle and filter/tablets
Keeps you hydrated and allows safe refilling from park water sources.
summer specific
Warm layers and rain shell
Alpine temperature swings and waterfall spray make quick-dry layers and a waterproof shell essential.
spring specific