Clouds Rest Backpacking
Clouds Rest Backpacking Trip
Trip Length:
4 Days
Trip Difficulty:
Moderate
A Unique Way to Experience Clouds Rest
Clouds Rest offers one of the best views in all of Yosemite, arguably even better than Half Dome, and this trip gives you a chance to experience it in a quiet, thoughtful, and incredibly scenic way.
We’ll set up basecamp deep in the backcountry, surrounded by forest, granite, and starlit skies. The next morning, we wake early for a sunrise summit of Clouds Rest, where you'll stand on a narrow ridgeline with panoramic views stretching from Tenaya Canyon to Half Dome and beyond. Most day hikers haven’t even started their climb by the time you’re taking it all in.
This route offers solitude, beauty, and a perfect intro to backcountry travel. Whether you're looking to avoid the crowds, build confidence, or just experience Yosemite in a more meaningful way, this trip is designed to be supportive, inspiring, and absolutely unforgettable.
Group Size:
4-12 guests
Price:
$1,350/person
Trip Dates:
Coming in 2026!
Trip Highlights
Summit Clouds Rest at sunrise, with sweeping views over Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra
Begin with a private shuttle and hike the stunning Panorama Trail—waterfalls, domes, and jaw-dropping scenery
Camp deep in the backcountry at Sunrise Lakes for a peaceful, remote experience under the stars
All meals included. We will even clean your dishes!
Enjoy a quieter, less-traveled route that avoids the crowds and day-hiker rush
Perfect for first-time backpackers or those looking to build their confidence with expert guidance
Led by local Yosemite guides who knows the terrain, weather, and best hidden views
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Purpose-Driven Adventures
Our trips are built to foster leadership, confidence, and resilience through immersive outdoor experiences.
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Hands-On Learning
Participants gain both technical skills (navigation, climbing, Leave No Trace) and life skills (teamwork, problem-solving, self-awareness).
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Safety Standards
All guides are certified Wilderness First Responders and AMGA-trained, with robust risk management protocols in place.
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Inclusive & Accessible
We welcome participants of all backgrounds and strive to make our trips accessible with gear support and a culture of belonging.
Itinerary
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Our adventure begins in stunning Yosemite National Park. We’ll gather at 4:00 PM at the Yosemite Backpacker’s Campground, where you’ll meet your guides. For co-ed trips, Rachel and Garet will lead together, while women’s-only trips will be guided by Rachel and Adele. Please plan for extra travel time, as traffic in Yosemite Valley can often be unpredictable.
After a thorough trip orientation and gear check, we’ll organize our packs, distribute group gear (8-10 lbs), pack snacks, and assemble hygiene kits. Once we’ve finalized our preparations, we’ll sit down for a delicious dinner at camp, creating the perfect atmosphere to relax and bond with one another. Dinner is included.
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We'll kick off the day with a fueling breakfast at camp, ensuring our backpacks are packed and ready for the adventure ahead. By 8:00 AM, we’ll hop on the hikers shuttle bound for the Cathedral Lakes trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows—our gateway to an unforgettable backpacking journey. The scenic ride takes a little over two hours, allowing plenty of time for last minute questions or unmet concerns. Shuttle is included.
As we arrive at the trailhead, our adventure begins with a hike toward Cathedral Lakes, passing through the serene Long Meadow. This tranquil area offers stunning views of Cathedral Peak, one of our personal favorite spots in the park. After a leisurely lunch here with an epic granite backdrop, we'll continue our trek a few more miles to Middle Sunrise Lakes, where we'll camp for the next two nights, soaking in the beauty of this remote and peaceful location. All meals and snacks provided.
Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: +1,870 feet, -1,210 feet -
After waking up at Sunrise Lakes, we’ll have about 4.5 miles to reach the summit of Clouds Rest. We’ll start the day with an early "alpine start" to catch the sunrise, and trust me, it will be worth it! The Clouds Rest trail offers breathtaking views and is truly unique, with stretches where we’ll walk on granite rock, including some exposed sections. While this can be a bit intimidating at times, we will guide you every step of the way, ensuring we take the safest and most scenic path. Once we return to camp, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch by the lake and have the rest of the afternoon to relax, reflect, and bask in the sense of accomplishment from a truly unforgettable day! Optional off trail terrain side adventure to Sunrise Mountain if you’d like to add on a handful more miles to your day! All meals and snacks provided.
Distance: 9 miles roundtrip from camp
Elevation Gain: +1,100 feet, -700 feet -
In the morning, we’ll start the day with a celebratory breakfast and coffee to honor our Clouds Rest summit. After packing up camp, we’ll begin our descent along the Clouds Rest trail toward Tenaya Lake. Once we reach the lake, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and, if you’re feeling adventurous, have the chance to take a refreshing dip.
At 2:30 p.m., we’ll catch our shuttle back to Curry Village. Once there, we’ll retrieve our cars, return any group gear, and organize our belongings. We expect to wrap up and be finished by 5/5:30 p.m. For those who wish to stay, an optional dinner is available at the Pizza Deck in Curry Village! All meals and snacks provided.
Distance: 3.3 miles
Elevation Gain: +150 feet, -1,300 feet -
Total trip mileage: 19.8 miles
Total elevation gain: 3,120 feet
Total elevation loss: 3,210 feet
Sample Menu
At Sierra Soul Adventures, food is one of our biggest passions, and we believe great meals make great adventures! When you join one of our backpacking trips, you can expect delicious, thoughtfully prepared meals that go far beyond the standard dehydrated bagged backpacking meals. We craft hearty, satisfying dishes designed to fuel your journey and elevate your wilderness experience. From fresh ingredients to creative recipes, our meals are a highlight of every trip, giving you a taste of home-cooked comfort in the backcountry.
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Fresh cinnamon-maple apples, coconut flakes, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds, and almond butter, served with hot sausage and french-pressed coffee.
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A variety of meats, cheeses, dried fruits, fig jam, fresh veggies, hummus, chocolate, and other surprises. A guest favorite for good reason!
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A flavorful blend of bowtie pasta tossed in rich pesto sauce, topped with chicken, parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and sun-dried tomatoes.
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Snacks are provided throughout each day to keep you energized. Each guest will pack their own snacks from our provided selection before hitting the trail, and a shared group snack will also be offered daily.
Trip Pricing & Cancellation Policy
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$1,350 per person
Full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your spot.
Please note: This trip does not include flights, travel expenses, or accommodations outside of the guided itinerary. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation and lodging before and after the trip.
If you'd like to discuss a payment plan, just mention it in your guest trip form—we’re happy to help.
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More than 14 days before departure: Full refund minus a $100 administrative fee.
14 days or less before departure: No refunds available.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about this policy!
Meet your Guides!
Rachel and Garet share a deep bond rooted in their love for each other, beautiful places, and the spirit of adventure. Together, they founded Sierra Soul Adventures to share their passion and create meaningful, empowering experiences for others. You can learn more about us here.
Rachel will lead all backpacking trips, with Garet joining the co-ed adventures. For women’s-only trips, Rachel will be joined by her dear friend and former REI co-guide, Adele Jankauskas, whose expertise and enthusiasm bring even more warmth and camaraderie to these empowering experiences.
Fun Fact: Rachel has guided over 300 guests on more than 30 successful ascents of the Half Dome cables and Garet has climbed the Regular Northwest Face of Half Dome in a single day!
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Rachel brings nearly a decade of experience in the outdoor industry, including almost ten years with REI, where she honed her guiding and outdoor education expertise. Specializing in custom backpacking adventures, Rachel is dedicated to teaching the technical skills that empower you to confidently explore the backcountry on your own. She is a certified Wilderness First Responder with nine years of experience, prioritizing safety and risk management in all her trips. Known for her warmth and approachable nature, Rachel has a unique ability to connect with people, always offering a helping hand and a friendly smile. In recognition of her exceptional skills, Rachel was honored as 2023 Guide of the Year.
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Garet, a California native, brings nearly a decade of experience exploring trails, sleeping under the stars, and empowering others to connect with the wilderness. With a strong rock climbing background and hundreds of overnight adventures under his belt, Garet has the expertise, confidence, and countless stories to make your backpacking trip unforgettable. A certified Wilderness First Responder, Garet is dedicated to safety and ensuring that every adventure is both enjoyable and risk-conscious. For Garet, the only thing better than being in the outdoors is sharing its beauty and wonder with others.
Gear List
You are responsible for covering all flights, travel, accommodations, and some gear. Please review the gear list carefully, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions or are interested in gear rentals.
Provided by you (required)
Backpacking backpack (55-75L)
Water bottles or water bladder (3L minimum)
Bowl, Spork, Mug
Day backpack (lightweight)
Hiking tops (short or long, we love sun hoodies)
Sleep wear
Hiking Pants
Rain jacket
Down and/or Fleece jacket
Hiking shoes or boots
Hat & Beanie
Sunscreen & Chapstick
Prescription meds
Trowel
Pack cover
Gear Provided by Sierra Soul
Backpacking tent (1- 2 person)- rentals available
Sleeping bag (15º-30º)- rentals available
Sleeping Pad- rentals available
Bear Canister
Group first aid kit
Group Cooking Gear
Stoves & Fuel
Group Water Filter
Gloves for Half Dome Cables
You might also consider (optional)
Trekking poles
Camp towel
Camp shoes
Backpacking chair or sit pad
Book