Guided Backpacking the Iconic Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, California

Experience the iconic Half Dome hike with 57hours’ 4-day guided backpacking trip. All details, from meals to tents, are taken care of so you can fully immerse yourself in the climb.

Rising nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley, Half Dome is a must-do trek for any avid hiker. You’ve probably seen countless pictures of it and imagined yourself gripping onto the cables as you ascend its steep face. Well, now is your chance. This 4-day guided backpacking trip by 57hours takes care of all the details so you can focus on the hiking. From meals to tents to expert guidance, everything is taken care of for you.

Begin with the breathtaking Mist Trail, where you’ll be greeted by the thundering Vernal and Nevada waterfalls as you climb up its dreamy staircase. Then comes the highlight of the trip – using metal cables to pull yourself up the steep slope of Half Dome’s magnificent granite face. To round out the journey, take a stroll along the legendary John Muir Trail, named after a renowned naturalist and conservationist who believed that “Nowhere will you find more company of a soothing peace-be-still kind” than in Yosemite.

Half Dome at Sunset, Glasier Point.

57hours is an adventure guide company that was built on the idea of packing your weekends with exciting outdoor adventures. Why the name 57hours? Well, there are 57 hours between 3 pm on Friday afternoon and midnight on Sunday. To them, making the most of your weekend means packing your car with gear, heading off to the mountains for the weekend, and returning late Sunday night, exhausted but completely recharged and ready for the upcoming work week.

Want to learn how to trek Half Dome safely & successfully? Let expert hiking guide Jesse Dunlap teach you everything you need to know before your adventure — from choosing the season and getting your permit to handling the heat and the elements! See the following webinar:

Experience the iconic Half Dome by climbing its peak and taking in the breathtaking views of Yosemite. Two hiking trails lead to the summit, with opportunities to appreciate the stunning scenery along the way. During an all-inclusive tour, you can focus on enjoying the famous trails of Yosemite without any worries. Spend your nights under a starry sky by pitching tents in the backcountry, nestled near Half Dome, and take a refreshing swim in the Merced River.

Itinerary

Undoubtedly, Half Dome is the most recognizable symbol of Yosemite National Park. If you join 57hours’ 4-day backpacking excursion, not only will you have the opportunity to ascend this majestic batholith that towers 5,000 feet above the valley floor, but you’ll also experience the breathtaking scenery before and after the main trek: take in the powerful waterfalls of Mist Trail as you journey towards Half Dome, and bask in the beauty of Yosemite from the John Muir Trail on your return.

This is an all-inclusive trip, meaning that food, guidance, and camping arrangements are taken care of. For added convenience, 57hours’ guide offers equipment rental so all you need to bring is yourself and some comfortable clothes. Immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness of Yosemite, sleep under the stars and beneath the imposing presence of Half Dome, and refresh yourself in the Merced river.

Day 1: Yosemite’s front country

Upon arrival at Yosemite, take the day to independently explore its front country. As evening approaches, gather with your team and guide at the backpackers campground. Review gear and plans for the trip, set up camp, and indulge in a warm, cooked meal. Rest well, as tomorrow marks the start of our backpacking adventure.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Mist Trail

The journey to Half Dome begins with a backpacking trip. The trail first takes you up the historic stone steps of the renowned Mist Trail. As the sun rises, warming the valley below, you’ll trek through the invigorating mist of Vernal and Nevada Falls. Together, these two waterfalls tower over 900 feet (270 m). Take a dip in the nearby water and spend the night camping beneath the looming shadow of Half Dome. With excitement bubbling inside, sleep may be hard to come by.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 4 miles / 6.5 km
Elevation: +2,400 ft / +730 m

Day 3: Half Dome summit

Wake up before sunrise to conquer the monumental Half Dome. As you approach the cables, the true steepness of the climb becomes evident. With determination, haul yourself up to the summit and take in the breathtaking views that await you.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 7 miles / 11 km
Elevation: +2,700 ft / +820 m

Day 4: John Muir Trail

Get ready to leave camp and spend your final day trekking along the famous John Muir Trail. Congratulations, you are now officially part of the exclusive Half Dome Hikers Club! Take a moment to bid farewell to your guide and fellow team members before heading out.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Hiking: 5 miles / 8 km
Elevation: +2,400 ft / +730 m

Looking down on the Half Dome cables on a summer day; smoke covering the sub dome and the valley beyond; Yosemite National Park, California

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