Spend two days backpacking Yosemite’s May Lake and Mount Hoffman on this family-friendly adventure, combining easy hikes, alpine swimming, and stunning summit views.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days, 3–5 hours hiking per day
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable with multi-hour hikes and moderate elevation gain.
Wildlife
History
Yosemite National Park was established in 1890, protecting vast granite cliffs and alpine lakes including May Lake.
Conservation
All visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace and use bear-proof food containers to protect wildlife.
The Lamplighters Adventuring Society LLC
Spend two days backpacking Yosemite’s May Lake and Mount Hoffman on this family-friendly adventure, combining easy hikes, alpine swimming, and stunning summit views.
The Lamplighters Adventuring Society LLC is a Yosemite-based guiding company operating in the Yosemite Valley Area, California. The Lamplighters offers private guided hikes, family outings, day tours, and multi-day backpacking trips tailored to small groups and families. Guides focus on safe, interpretive experiences that showcase Yosemite's iconic landmarks and secluded high-country lakes. Trips include day hikes such as the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls, Yosemite Valley walking tours, and family beach days at Tenaya Lake, as well as more immersive adventures like summit Half Dome in a day and multi-day backpacking routes to May Lake, Clouds Rest, and the Ten Lakes Basin. The Lamplighters provides route planning, on-trail leadership, and prepared lunches or picnic options on select outings. For families, the company offers shorter, accessible hikes including a Family Hike to a Hidden Lake and a Family Overnighter to May Lake and Mount Hoffman designed to accommodate a range of ages. Safety and stewardship guide operations: guides emphasize Leave No Trace practices and operate within park regulations. The Lamplighters Adventuring Society LLC positions itself as a specialist for private, small-group Yosemite adventures, operating from Yosemite Valley and focused on delivering memorable outdoor experiences. Guests can expect expert route knowledge, logistics support for day and overnight trips, and options that range from relaxed beach and swim days to challenging summit climbs. Reservations and trip selection guidance are provided through the business's booking channels.
Guides hold wilderness training and maintain current certifications relevant to safe park operations and emergency response.
Location
Yosemite Valley, CA
Based in Yosemite Valley Area
Guided Trips
Private Guides
Private guided hikes and tours
Tours Offered
13 Trips
Day and multi-day itineraries
Family Friendly
Multiple Options
Designed for all ages
Choose a guided day hike, family swim, or multi-day backpacking trip and secure your date in Yosemite Valley Area.
Pack layered clothing
Temperatures can vary widely from valley to summit—bring moisture-wicking layers and a warm jacket.
Carry ample water
Water sources near May Lake may require filtration—carry at least 2 liters per person.
Start hikes early
Begin your summit day early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in summer.
Practice Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash and minimize campfire impacts to keep May Lake pristine.
Backpacking backpack
Carry all gear comfortably for overnight stays and day hikes.
summer
Water filter or purification tablets
Safe drinking water is crucial for camping near natural water sources.
summer
Comfortable hiking boots
Supportive footwear protects your feet on rocky, uneven trails.
spring
Sleeping bag rated to 20°F
Even summer nights can be chilly near May Lake's elevation.
summer