Adventure Collective
Yosemite Falls Loop Trek with Discovery Treks - Fresno, California

Yosemite Falls Loop Trek with Discovery Treks

Yosemite National Parkdifficult

Difficulty

difficult

Duration

3–5 days

Fitness Level

Participants should have excellent cardiovascular fitness and experience with sustained elevation gain and backpacking.

Overview

Step off the beaten path with Discovery Treks’ Yosemite Falls/Snow Creek Loop, a multi-day backpacking journey through some of Yosemite’s most dramatic and lesser-seen landscapes. Tackle steep ascents and soak in expansive valley views away from the crowds.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Yosemite Falls/Snow Creek Loop

Starting at $1497 per person

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Adventure Photos

Yosemite Falls/Snow Creek Loop photo 1

About This Adventure

The Yosemite Falls/Snow Creek hike is the perfect trip for anyone looking for a challenge (beware; this is the mother of all Stairmaster workouts), and is already visiting the Valley but want to stay away from the Half Dome craziness. With views into the valley for most of your hike is worth the heavy breathing and bouts of exposure here and there.


Rates

  • 5 Day Hike - $1497

About

This Discovery Treks backpacking tour is a great alternative to the ever popular, and crowded, Half Dome 3 day trip. While also starting from Yosemite Valley, the Yosemite Falls/Snow Creek tour will have you leaving the day hiking crowds behind after a few miles as you ascend on the Upper Yosemite Falls trail. You will hike up the tallest fall in the park, as well as the lower 48 states, hike to the top of El Capitan (and wonder why all these people are climbing it when you can just hike to the top), see Half Dome from across the Valley from the less populated North Dome, and then make your way back to the Valley, finishing the loop via the Snow Creek trail.

A 3 day trip is also available covering the same route but with less time for side hikes and exploration. A 5 day will give you an extra day camping at Snow Creek for some time to explore more of the North Rim of Yosemite Valley!

*Route Variation - Our specific hiking route and campsites on each departure are dependent upon permit availability.

What's included?

  • 5pm orientation the afternoon prior to your hike at Yosemite Valley at the backpacker's camp.
  • Backpacking permits.
  • Tent camping each night on the trail plus the night of orientation at the backpacker's camp*.
  • All food while on the trail prepared by your guide - from dinner at orientation through breakfast on the last day*.
  • Double occupancy tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, backpack, trekking poles. A single tent is available for an additional $50.
  • A certified, medically trained guide that will lead you safely on your journey.
  • An unforgettable experience!
  • *Camping at backpackers camp, dinner the night of orientation and breakfast the morning of the trip is $50/person additional and is not mandatory.

Our prices do not include guide gratuity (10-15% of tour cost is recommended).

Pickup Locations **Shuttle - this trip starts along Glacier Point Rd. If you do not have your own transportation and are taking YARTS, you will need to reserve space on the early (8:30am) Glacier Point Tour shuttle. Spaces are limited and there is a fee.

Adventure Tips

Prepare for steep, sustained climbs

This loop features long uphill stretches with exposure; good stamina and steady pacing are key.

Acquire permits in advance

This trip includes permits, but securing your own permits for other times can be competitive due to high demand.

Bring trekking poles

Poles reduce knee strain during steep descents on rocky or uneven sections of the trail.

Be mindful of early shuttle schedules

If relying on YARTS shuttle services, book early morning Glacier Point shuttle seats ahead of time.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Black bears
  • Mule deer

History

Yosemite National Park was established in 1890, protecting its granite cliffs and waterfalls, and played a foundational role in the national park movement.

Conservation

Yosemite promotes Leave No Trace ethics; guided trips like those by Discovery Treks help minimize environmental impact and preserve fragile backcountry zones.

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Adventure Hotspots in Fresno, California

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Backpacking tent

Essential

Lightweight shelter suitable for multi-night hikes and exposed camping spots.

Trekking poles

Essential

Helps maintain stability and reduces joint fatigue on steep ascents and descents.

Layered clothing

Essential

Adapt to changing temperatures, especially cooler nights and exposed ridges.

all specific

Hydration system

Essential

Ample water capacity and filtration are critical for this dry, strenuous hike.

all specific