Yosemite Grand Traverse with Pack-Support

Day 1- Hotel Check-In

Check in at the Wyndham Garden Hotel at the Airport anytime after 3 pm. Meet your guide(s) and group in the lobby at 5 pm for a brief orientation. Dinner is on your own in Fresno.

Day 2- Hike to Cora Lakes 

After an early breakfast on your own, our shuttle will meet us at 7 am to drive to the remote trailhead (7,100'), about  a 3-hour drive. After dropping our gear with the packers, we’ll make our way to the trailhead and begin hiking to our first camp at Cora Lakes. That evening, settle into your first night of camping, while your guide(s) prepare dinner. Enjoy the sunset while having dinner overlooking the lake.  

4.5 miles, Elevation: +1500’/ -300’ 

Day 3- Climb Isberg pass (11,000 ft.) and camp at Lake 10K  

We’ll pack up camp early this morning with our sights set on Isberg Pass (11.000’). After passing through a picturesque high lakes basin, we’ll surmount the pass itself, which marks the official border of Yosemite National Park. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a  lakeside camp at the headwaters of the Merced River, surrounded by 11-12,000’ granite peaks.

11 miles, Elevation: +2600’/ -800’ 

Day 4- Descend along the Merced River.

Today's hike is all downhill, through the creek drainages and headwaters that eventually form the mighty “Wild and Scenic Merced River”. Views of the Clark Range are abundant and there are plenty of beautiful meadows, waterfalls, and swimming holes to distract us. The day's hike drops us 2,300' over roughly 7 miles and we'll camp along one of our favorite dispersed camp spots along the Merced River.  

6.8 miles, Elevation: +150'/-2300' 

Day 5- Hike to Sunrise Creek

This morning we’ll continue following the Merced past the famous High Sierra Camp and into Echo Valley. From there, we’ll regain our lost elevation as we traverse large granite ridges enjoying spectacular views of Little Yosemite Valley along the way. The trail eventually leads to the Sunrise Creek area, positioning us below Cloud’s Rest in preparation for an early start the following day. 

10.5 miles, Elevation: +1565'/ -1385' 

Day 6- Summit Clouds Rest (9,930 ft.) 

We'll be up and out of camp early to begin making our way to the top of Cloud’s Rest (9,930). We’ll reach the summit  by late morning, and will have plenty of time to enjoy the stunning views along the way, including Tenaya Canyon 4,000 feet below. The peak itself is a side trip off of the main trail, 3.6 miles round-trip. In the afternoon we’ll continue to our camp at Sunrise Lakes where we will have time to relax, jump in the lake, and enjoy camp.  

8.5 miles, +2746' / -1591'

Day 7- Hike the John Muir Trail to Cathedral Lake.  

Our second to last day we’ll connect with the famous John Muir Trail in the Tuolumne region of Yosemite. We’ll pass some stunning alpine meadows and otherworldly glaciated peaks on our way to what many folks call the most beautiful spot in Yosemite, (upper) Cathedral Lake (9,600'). We’ll have time in the afternoon to explore the area, or just relax and enjoy the swimming and stunning views from the lakeside camp.  

6 miles, Elevation: +1322'/-896' 

Day 8- Exit backcountry via Tuolumne Meadows, return to Fresno.

After breakfast, we'll pack up camp one last time and hike the remaining 4 miles to the trailhead at the iconic Tuolumne Meadows in Northern Yosemite. We'll be meeting our shuttle here mid-morning for a scenic drive through the park back to Fresno. We’ll stop for a picnic lunch along the way and savor one last moment before we make our way south. Expect a 5-6pm return to Fresno.

4 miles, Elevation: +230 / -1293'

• Expert AWE wilderness guides

• Pack animals and experienced wranglers

• Required permits and logistics coordination

Accommodations 

• 1st night's lodging at Wyndham Garden Hotel in Fresno 

• 6 nights of wilderness tent camping 

Transportation 

• Day 2 private shuttle from Fresno to starting trailhead 

• Day 8 private shuttle from ending  trailhead to Fresno 

Food 

• Starting with lunch on Day 2 and ending with lunch on Day 8 

• 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.

❌Trip Insurance (strongly recommended)

❌Recommended 10-20% gratuity for guide(s) and 3% for packers based on overall satisfaction of trip.

❌Personal clothing & footwear (personal gear packing list will be emailed out after submitting registration.) 

❌Dinner on the first night in Fresno

❌Airfare 

❌Evacuations

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.

Yosemite Grande Traverse Training Program:

Challenge Level: Intermediate (pack-supported)

The Yosemite Grande Traverse is considered an intermediate challenge level trip. It is designed for hikers with a good baseline level of fitness who are comfortable hiking 6-11 miles for multiple consecutive days. While pack-supported travel significantly reduces the weight you carry, guests should arrive prepared for long days on trail, variable terrain, and elevation (7,000 ft.-11,000 ft.). Arriving well-conditioned will greatly improve your experience.

Minimum Fitness Expectations:

Before your trip, you should be able to:

• Hike 8–11 miles in a day on hilly or mountainous terrain

• Carry a daypack weighing 10–15 lbs comfortably

• Complete 2–3 consecutive days of hiking without excessive fatigue

• Manage sustained uphill travel and uneven surfaces

Recommended 8–10 Week Training Plan:

The best training for hiking is hiking. We recommend building toward a consistent schedule that mimics the demands of the trip.

Weekly Structure:

Aim for 3–4 training sessions per week, including:

1–2 Short Hikes (Midweek)

• Distance: 3–6 miles

• Terrain: Rolling hills, local trails, or stair climbs

• Focus: Cardiovascular fitness and leg strength

• Pack: Start light, gradually adding weight up to 10–15 lbs

1 Long Hike (Weekend)

• Distance: Build from 6 miles up to 10–12 miles

• Terrain: Steep or uneven trails when possible

• Elevation Gain: Gradually increase elevation gain over time

• Pack: Daypack with water, layers, and snacks

Optional Back-to-Back Hikes

If possible, add two consecutive hiking days every 2–3 weeks to prepare for multi-day travel.

Strength & Conditioning (1–2x per week)

While not required, strength training can greatly improve comfort and injury prevention.

Focus on:

• Squats and lunges

• Step-ups (especially weighted)

• Core strength (planks, balance work)

• Ankle and hip stability exercises

Elevation & Terrain Considerations:

Whenever possible:

• Train on uneven terrain (rocky trails, dirt paths)

• Include sustained climbs rather than flat mileage

• Practice pacing and steady movement

Footwear & Gear Prep:

• 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

Rest, Recovery & Mindset:

Rest days are an essential part of training. Recovery allows your body to adapt and prevents injury. A positive mindset, flexibility, and willingness to embrace changing conditions are just as important as physical preparation.

Have fun and be creative! There are all sorts of ways to incorporate supplemental activities, which will help your overall training. A softball game with friends, a gym class, biking around town, a short walk/hike with coworkers on your lunch break... building these things into your routine can help build strength and endurance in different ways.

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 (synthetic and non-cotton recommended)

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

• 2–3 pairs hiking socks

• Hiking pants and shorts

• 2-3 shirts

• 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 and lightweight camp towel

Sleep System

• Sleeping bag (rated to 15 - 20°F unless otherwise specified)

• Sleeping pad (self- inflatable)

Personal Items

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

• Hydration bladder (2-3 L capacity) and bottle (1 L capacity)

• Toiletries & personal hygiene items

• Small personal first-aid items & medications

• Sunscreen & lip balm (SPF)

• Insect repellent

• Head bug net

• Trekking poles (recommended, optional)

• Lightweight gloves & beanie

• Buff or neck gaiter

• Power bank to charge electronics.

• Whistle

Optional but Recommended

• Lightweight camp towel

• Knife or multi-tool

• Camp pillow

• Map

• Fly fishing rod

• Journal or book

• Camera or binoculars

Duffel Bag Requirement

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

• Max weight: 15 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 greater comfort and more enjoyment overall.

How challenging is the Yosemite Grande Traverse?

This is an intermediate challenging adventure. Daily mileage and elevation gain vary from 4-11 miles and +2,500 ft. elevation gain/loss. Some days include sustained climbs over high passes. A good level of fitness and a positive attitude go a long way.

Is this trip right for me?

This trip is a great fit if you can confidently say yes to most of the following:

• ⛰️ You enjoy full days of hiking in mountainous terrain

• 🥾 You can hike 8–10 miles in a day with elevation gain

• 🎒 You are comfortable carrying a 10–15 lb daypack

• 🔁 You can hike multiple days in a row without needing full recovery days

• 🏔️ You feel steady on uneven, rocky, or steep trails

• 🌦️ You’re adaptable to changing mountain weather and trail conditions

• 🧠 You value the journey as much as the destination and bring a positive, flexible mindset

Pack-supported travel means lighter packs — but this is still a big wilderness journey through Yosemite’s high country.

If you’re newer to multi-day hiking but have a strong fitness base and are excited to train, this trip can be an excellent next step.

This Trip May Not Be the Best Fit If:

• You are not currently hiking or training regularly

• You prefer short, casual walks over sustained days on trail

• You are uncomfortable with exposure, uneven footing, or variable weather

• You’re looking for a trip with frequent rest days or developed camps

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.

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 (there is an ATM at the Wyndham if needed). 

It is also customary to tip the packer. A tip of 3% of your trip cost is recommended, tips can be given  directly to the packer on the last day at the trailhead (cash is preferred).

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