About this tour
When Jake from our team tackled this five-day Yosemite backpacking loop, he found himself genuinely in the thick of it—high alpine lakes, two major summits, and the famous Mist Trail all strung together across some of the most dramatic country in the park. You're looking at Cathedral Lakes first night, then a push up Cathedral Pass to Sunrise Lakes, bagging Clouds Rest (9,926m) for sweeping valley views before the final push to Half Dome's cables and down the waterfall-lined descent. It's a strenuous five days pitched squarely at experienced hikers in solid condition, and the scenery justifies every blister.
Highlights
- Cathedral Lakes camp, genuinely remote and quiet despite the iconic status
- Clouds Rest summit delivers Yosemite Valley views that dwarf the valley floor crowds
- Half Dome cables and final descent via Mist Trail—two waterfalls in one day
- Alpine lake swimming between Cathedral Pass and Sunrise Lakes, genuinely refreshing
- Trail junctions and navigation straightforward; John Muir Trail sections well-marked
- Camp meals cooked on-site; dinners substantial enough after hard days
- Early September timing catches fewer hikers without summer peak heat
What to expect
Jake's first two days were high-output: Cathedral Lakes is a solid seven-mile push from the trailhead with real elevation gain, landing you at genuinely peaceful water. Day two covers Cathedral Pass into Sunrise Lakes area—prettier than the descent suggests, with multiple lake camps to choose from. Day three is the payoff: Clouds Rest is a steep grunt up loose scree, but the 360-degree alpine view and isolated Yosemite Valley perspective from up there shifts how you see the park.
Day four is Half Dome day. The cables are physical and exposure-heavy (not technical climbing, but commitment required). The descent via Mist Trail—Nevada Fall then Vernal Fall—is steep, wet, and leg-hammering, especially on tired muscles. By that point you've done serious mileage over four days. The whole loop moves at a pace that demands you're fit and ready; there's no cruising or slack days built in.
Good to know
This is authentic high-country backpacking without feeling overcrowded, despite being famous. Clouds Rest gives you a genuine Yosemite moment without the Half Dome cables queue stress. You're fed three times daily, which matters when you're hiking 12–14 miles per day at altitude. The route is logical and navigation is straightforward. If you love alpine scenery and are capable of five consecutive hard days, it delivers.
This isn't beginner terrain. You need solid fitness, no joint or spinal issues, and a realistic view of what five days of serious elevation gain feels like. The Mist Trail descent on tired legs is genuinely punishing. Early July and late August can be hot; September is more comfortable. You pay the Yosemite gate fee separately. Groups are likely 8–12 people. Altitude and remote camping aren't for everyone.
Gaiters (dust on descent), blister kit, sun protection. Meals included; tents and most camp gear provided. Service animals allowed. Not suitable if you have spinal issues, cardiovascular concerns, or are pregnant.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.