Ansel Adams Wilderness Basecamp

Day 1- Meet your guide in Oakhurst, CA.  

Check in to the Hampton Inn anytime after 3pm. Meet your guide and group at 5 pm in the main lobby for a short meet-and-greet and trip orientation. Dinner tonight is on your own at one of the many local restaurants (we recommend Southgate Brewery located in Oakhurst).  

Day 2- Hike into the Ansel Adams Wilderness to our lakeside camp.

After an early breakfast on your own, we’ll meet you at 7 am to drive to the nearby trailhead (7,600’). The drive, which takes about 1.5 hrs, is your responsibility to and from the trailhead and pack station. We’ll first stop at the pack station where we’ll drop off our gear for the packers to load up, then after a short 5 minute drive to the trailhead, we will hit the trail! While hiking, you’ll carry just a day-pack. We will hike approximately 5 miles into a centrally located lake where we will make basecamp. 

5 miles, Elevation: +1709'/ -322' 

Day 3- Explore alpine lakes basin.

Today your guide(s) will lead a hike through the pristine upper lakes basin via established on- and off-trail routes.  Exact destinations and distance vary depending on the preferences of the group members. Your guides excel at customizing the itinerary to best fit the nature of the group. The day ends with swimming at our lakeside camp, a hearty dinner prepared by your guide(s), and stargazing. 

Varies by trip 1-6 miles, Elevation varies.

Day 4- Option to climb a peak on the border of Yosemite Wilderness and/or more exploration in the lake basins. 

After a delicious breakfast prepared by your guide(s), we’ll set out again to explore the surrounding area. An optional  summit hike to one of the nearby 10,000'+ peaks that make up the southern border of Yosemite National Park is a possibility. There will also be opportunities for day hikes to other nearby alpine lakes with great fishing & swimming,  depending on your interest. 

Varies by trip 1-6 miles, Elevation varies 

Day 5- Depart the backcountry and return to Oakhurst.

After a leisurely morning we’ll bid farewell to our cozy camp and make our way back to the trailhead, where we will meet with the packers and collect our gear. Expect a 3 pm departure from the high country which will get us back to Oakhurst no later than 5 pm.

5 miles, Elevation: +322’ /-1709’

• Expert AWE wilderness guides

• Pack animals and experienced wranglers

• Required permits and logistics coordination

Accommodations 

• 1st night's lodging at the Hampton Inn in Oakhurst.  

• 3 nights of wilderness tent camping  

Food 

• Starting with lunch on Day 2 and ending with lunch on Day 5 

• Gourmet backcountry meals including trail snacks 

Gear  

• All group gear including stoves, cookware, water filters, chairs, group first aid kit, bathroom kit, etc. 

• Personal backpacking gear provided by request: daypacks, sleeping bags,  sleeping pads, trekking poles, and tents

❌Transportation to and from trailhead

❌Trip Insurance (strongly recommended)

❌Recommended 15%-20% gratuity for guides and 20-30$ for Packers.

❌Personal clothing & footwear (a packing list will be emailed upon booking). 

❌Dinner (Day 1) & breakfast (Day 2)

❌Airfare

❌ Evacuation

Unless you are willing to absorb the entire cost of your trip in the event of a cancellation or early exit, it is recommended that you obtain travel insurance to protect your investment. AWE is not liable for cancellation fees or costs pertaining to your changed or canceled flights, rentals, lodging, or other arrangements (travel insurance can cover those costs). We recommend you call and speak with agent(s) before purchasing.

Our recommendations (please do your own research to see what best suits your needs):

• Travel Guard- travelguard.com

• World Nomads- worldnomads.com

• ADD Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Coverage to your insurance plan– it’s highly recommended you add this to your policy. You often need to purchase this coverage within a short timeframe of making your reservation (typically 1-2 weeks).

• Full Payment: Due 60 days before trip departure

• Cancellation 60+ days before departure: 75% of deposit refunded or transferred to another trip in same season.

• Cancellation within 60-45 days of departure: 50% of trip cost refunded or transferred to another trip in same season.

• Cancel 45 days or less, non-refundable, non-transferable.

Cancellation policies are necessary for operating “tour-type” programs with high up-front costs and overhead. While AWE operates within industry standards and strives to be fair, there are many things are out of our control.  

By their nature, backcountry adventures are uncertain endeavors. Many factors can influence the arrival to, the running of, or the outcome of an AWE program. Therefore, AWE strongly suggests obtaining “cancel for any reason” travel insurance before embarking. Weather, route conditions, or your own abilities may create circumstances that make continuing an AWE program unsafe or unwise, and you and/or your party may have to exit early. No refunds are given if a program ends early due to weather or route conditions. If this occurs your guide will offer to spend your remaining time pursuing a different or more feasible route. There is no credit for any days that go unused.

Should AWE need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances (government closures, etc), we will offer you the opportunity to change programs, reschedule, or refund without penalty.

Ansel Adams Wilderness BC Training Plan:

Challenge Level: Moderate / Beginner-Friendly (Pack-Supported)

Ansel Adams Basecamp is a pack-supported, moderate-level trip designed for guests seeking a comfortable and immersive introduction to Sierra Nevada backcountry travel. Daily hikes explore the surrounding wilderness while a centrally located basecamp provides a consistent and relaxed home in the mountains.

Although beginner-friendly, guests should arrive prepared for moderate hiking, variable terrain, and elevations ranging from 7,500–10,000+ feet. Proper preparation will help ensure a positive and enjoyable experience throughout the trip.

Minimum Fitness Expectations

Before your trip, you should be able to:

• Hike up to 6 miles in a day on hilly or mountainous terrain

• Carry a daypack weighing 10–15 lbs comfortably

• Complete multiple days of hiking with adequate recovery between days

• Manage moderate uphill travel and uneven trail surfaces

This trip is paced intentionally, with time for exploration, swimming, fishing, photography, and relaxation at camp.

Recommended 6–8 Week Training Plan

The best training for hiking is hiking. We recommend building toward a consistent schedule that mirrors the demands of the trip, focusing on endurance, comfort on uneven terrain, and steady pacing rather than speed.

Weekly Structure

Aim for 3 training sessions per week, including:

1–2 Short Hikes (Midweek)

• Distance: 3–5 miles

• Terrain: Rolling hills, local trails, dirt paths, or stairs

• Focus: Cardiovascular fitness and leg strength

• Pack: Light daypack; gradually add weight up to 10–15 lbs

These hikes help build consistency and comfort moving with a pack.

1 Longer Hike (Weekend)

• Distance: Build from 4–5 miles up to 6–7 miles

• Terrain: Uneven or hilly trails when possible

• Elevation Gain: Gradually increase elevation gain over time

• Pack: Daypack with water, layers, and snacks

This hike prepares you for the longest days on the itinerary.

Optional: Back-to-Back Hikes

If your schedule allows, add two consecutive hiking days once or twice before your trip. This helps your body adapt to hiking on multiple days in a row, even at shorter distances.

Strength & Conditioning (Optional but Beneficial)

While not required, light strength training can improve comfort and reduce fatigue.

Focus on:

• Squats and lunges

• Step-ups (especially weighted)

• Core strength (planks, balance work)

• Ankle and hip stability exercises

1–2 short sessions per week is sufficient.

Elevation & Terrain Considerations

Whenever possible:

• Train on uneven or natural terrain rather than flat pavement

• Include sustained climbs, even if they’re short

• Practice steady pacing and breathing

If you don’t have access to elevation, consistent cardio training will still help your body adapt once on the trip.

Footwear & Gear Preparation

• Train in the same footwear you plan to wear on the trip

• Break in boots or trail shoes well in advance

• Practice hiking with trekking poles if you plan to use them

• Use training hikes to test clothing layers and pack fit

Rest, Recovery & Mindset

Rest days are an essential part of training. Recovery allows your body to adapt and prevents injury. Arriving rested, well-prepared, and open to the experience is just as important as physical conditioning.

This trip is about moving comfortably through wild places, enjoying the journey, and celebrating each day’s effort — not pushing limits.

*If you have questions about fitness, altitude, or gear, we encourage you to reach out before booking. We’re happy to help you prepare and ensure this trip is a good fit.

Pack-Supported Trip Gear List

Pack-supported travel allows you to hike light while essential overnight gear is transported by pack animals. Guests carry only a comfortable daypack during the hiking day. Please review the list below carefully and reach out with any questions.

What AWE Provides

• Experienced wilderness guides

• Group cooking gear & camp kitchen

• All meals & snacks (unless otherwise noted)

• Pack animals & wranglers to transport group and personal gear

• Group first aid & emergency communication devices

• Bear-resistant food storage

• Tents, Backpacks, Sleeping bags, Sleeping pads, trekking poles can be provided on request.

What You Carry Each Day (Daypack: 10–15 lbs)

• Comfortable daypack (20–30L recommended)

• 2–3 liters of water capacity (bottles or hydration bladder)

• Hiking snacks (provided by AWE, carried by you)

• Rain jacket

• Insulating layer (fleece or lightweight puffy)

• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

• Personal items (camera, phone, medications, etc.)

Required Personal Gear

Clothing

• Hiking boots or trail shoes (well broken-in)

• 2–3 pairs hiking socks

• Hiking pants and shorts

• Long-sleeve sun shirt or lightweight layer

• Warm insulated jacket (down or synthetic)

• Rain jacket/ Rain pants (waterproof, not just water-resistant)

• Sleepwear (warm base layer recommended)

• Camp shoes or sandals

• Swimwear

Sleep System

• Sleeping bag (rated to 20–30°F unless otherwise specified)

• Sleeping pad (self- inflatable)

Personal Items

• Headlamp or flashlight (with fresh batteries and/or charge)

• Toiletries & personal hygiene items

• Small personal first-aid items & medications

• Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF)

• Insect repellent

• Trekking poles (recommended, optional)

• Lightweight gloves & beanie

• Buff or neck gaiter

Optional but Recommended

• Lightweight camp towel

• Fly fishing rod

• Journal or book

• Camera or binoculars

• Power bank to charge electronics.

Duffel Bag Requirement

All overnight gear must fit into one soft-sided duffel bag (no hard suitcases).

• Max weight: Typically 15-20 lbs (this only includes personal clothing/toiletries/small items). Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, are not included in this weight.

This allows safe and efficient loading on pack animals.

What Not to Bring

• Hard-sided luggage

• Excessive valuables

• Drones (restricted in wilderness & national parks)

Questions About Gear?

We’re happy to help. Gear recommendations, requests, and packing guidance are available upon request. Our goal is to help you arrive prepared, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the experience.

What does “pack-supported” mean?

Pack-supported trips use experienced pack animals and wranglers to carry the bulk of group gear and personal duffels. Guests hike with only a light daypack, allowing for a more enjoyable experience overall.

How challenging is this trip?

This trip is designed for hikers with a moderate level of fitness. Daily hikes typically range from 5-7 miles with 500 ft.-1000 ft. elevation gain/loss. While prior hiking experience is helpful, it is not required. If you’re unsure whether this trip is right for you, we’re happy to talk it through.

Are permits included?

Yes. All required wilderness permits and land-use authorizations are handled by Axis Wild Expeditions.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

No problem, your guides can adjust the menu to accommodate any dietary restrictions/ preferences. Be sure to note them down on the pre-trip Health questionnaire that will be sent via email upon booking.

Are peak ascents required on this trip?

No. One or more optional summit days are offered, typically reaching elevations of no more than 10,000 feet. Guests may choose to summit or enjoy more exploration and/or a relaxed day by the lake (9,000 ft).

Is this trip right for me?

This trip is well-suited for guests who are newer to multi-day hiking but ready to challenge themselves in a supportive, pack-supported, group environment.

You’ll be a good fit if you:

• Can hike 4–6 miles in a day with a light daypack

• Are comfortable spending multiple days outdoors

• Enjoy a mix of hiking, relaxation, and exploration

• Are open to learning and growing your backcountry confidence

If you’re uncertain about your readiness, our team is happy to talk through expectations and help you prepare.

How do we handle gratuities for our guides & packers? 

Your guides work very hard to provide an exemplary trip experience for you, and it is customary to give them a gratuity based on your overall experience on the trip. Tips are shared between your guides. 10-20% of your trip cost is  recommended and cash or venmo is preferred.

It is also customary to tip the packer. A tip of $20-30 (cash is best) per participant is recommended, tips can  be given directly to the packer on the last day at the trailhead.

How do I book?

You can reserve your spot directly through our website. You can start the process by clicking the Registration button below. If you have questions before booking, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to connect.

What if I need to cancel?

Please refer to our Terms of Service policy on the website. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.

There is a 4 person minimum requirement for this trip to run.

If a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip, be refunded your payments in full, or you may have the choice to pay a supplemental fee to run the trip with fewer guests.

We make the final determination for these trips 4-5 weeks before the departure date, and notify guests of changes and options immediately.