Yosemite Scenic Mountain Trekking
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Yosemite National Park, CA
DATE
Aug 16, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Yosemite Alpine Adventure
Primary Objective: through hike
Trip Duration: 4 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~34 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: large mountains
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): ~6500 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Tuolumne Meadows, CA to Happy Isles, CA
- GPS coordinates: 37.8742, -119.3590 to 37.7323, -119.5587
- Permits: Obtain from Yosemite National Park's Wilderness Permit Office
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DAY 1: Tuolumne Meadows, CA to Cathedral Lakes
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +1100 ft
- Terrain description: Meadows and granite basin
- Notable features or side quests: Cathedral Peak view
- Key water sources: Cathedral Lakes
- Campsite location: Cathedral Lakes
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear activity; use bear canisters
- Trail tip: Start early to secure a good campsite
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DAY 2: Cathedral Lakes to Sunrise Lakes
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +1400 ft
- Terrain description: Forested trails with granite outcrops
- Notable features or side quests: Sunrise at Sunrise Mountain
- Key water sources: Sunrise Lakes
- Campsite location: Sunrise Lakes
- Wildlife or safety notes: Steep sections; caution on descent
- Trail tip: Refill water at lakes for next day’s hike
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DAY 3: Sunrise Lakes to Little Yosemite Valley
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +2000 ft
- Terrain description: Alpine ridges and peaks
- Notable features or side quests: Clouds Rest and Half Dome summit
- Key water sources: Creek near Little Yosemite Valley
- Campsite location: Little Yosemite Valley
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for afternoon thunderstorms
- Trail tip: Permits needed for Half Dome; plan accordingly
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DAY 4: Little Yosemite Valley to Happy Isles, CA
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, -2900 ft
- Terrain description: Forest trails with switchbacks
- Notable features or side quests: Vernal and Nevada Falls
- Key water sources: Merced River
- Campsite location: Not applicable
- Wildlife or safety notes: Heavy foot traffic; maintain safe pace
- Trail tip: Early start recommended to avoid crowds
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Cathedral Lakes (~9,288 ft), Sunrise Lakes (~9,260 ft), Little Yosemite Valley (~6,100 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Check current restrictions before departure
- Bear safety and food storage: Bear canisters required
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Sunrise at Sunrise Lakes
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate to high noise level
- Nearest water source: Nearby lakes and streams
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 40°F to 75°F in August
- Sun exposure: High exposure; use sunscreen
- Acclimatization tips: Arrive early to adjust to elevation changes
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
- Navigation tools (map, compass)
- Water filtration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches
- Pocket knife
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Shelter system (tent, tarp)
- Insulating layers
- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)
Pro tips: Bring a lightweight solar charger for electronics
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Echo Peaks for panoramic views
- Photo-worthy moments: Half Dome summit at sunrise
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Curry Village Pizza Deck
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-10 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Rise with sunrise, sleep by 9 pm
- Estimated calories burned per day: ~3000 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 30-40 lbs
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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
