5-Day Cathedral Lakes to Clouds Rest & Half Dome Backpacking Trip — Yosemite High Country
A five-day guided backpacking traverse through Yosemite’s high country: alpine lakes, a sky-scraping Clouds Rest summit, and the cable-assisted ascent of Half Dome. Expect long mileage, big views, and backcountry camping under granite skies.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pack a bear canister
Yosemite requires bear-resistant food storage in the backcountry — carry one and know how to seal it to protect food and wildlife.
Practice cable exposure
If you’re nervous about heights, do shorter exposed scrambles or practice on fixed-rope features before Half Dome day—the cables demand steady footing and calm hands.
Water treatment and timing
Bring a reliable filter or chemical treatment; water is available but treat all sources and refill early in the day before popular campsites dry down.
Sleep system for alpine nights
Nights can drop below freezing even in summer—use an appropriately rated sleeping bag and an insulated sleeping pad for comfort and safety.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle the shallow edge of Lower Cathedral Lake at dusk for mirror reflections and fewer people
- •Side hike to the Columbia Finger viewpoint for a unique angle on the valley and distant peaks
Wildlife
- •Black bear
- •Mule deer
Conservation Note
Yosemite manages backcountry quotas, strict food storage rules, and Leave No Trace practices to protect fragile alpine ecosystems and wildlife.
The trail follows routes used historically by indigenous peoples and later popularized by John Muir and early Sierra Club expeditions that shaped Yosemite conservation history.
Photographer's Notes
- • Shoreline of Lower Cathedral Lake
- • Summit of Clouds Rest looking toward Yosemite Valley
- • Half Dome summit looking east over the High Sierra
What to Bring
50–65L backpackEssential
Holds five days of food and group gear while allowing comfortable load distribution for steep climbs.
Sturdy, broken-in hiking bootsEssential
Support and traction on talus, granite slabs, and uneven trail sections are essential for long days.
Bear-resistant canisterEssential
Required by Yosemite for all backcountry food storage to protect wildlife and comply with regulations.
Headlamp with extra batteriesEssential
Early starts, camp chores, and summit approaches often require reliable hands-free light.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit for Half Dome?
Yes—this guided trip includes the necessary backcountry permits and Half Dome cable permit when required, handled by the outfitter.
How strenuous are the hiking days?
Expect long, sustained days with significant elevation gain; prior multi-day backpacking experience and regular training hikes are recommended.
Are the Half Dome cables difficult?
The cables are exposed but non-technical; hikers need good balance, comfortable footing on granite, and the ability to use their hands for ascent and descent.
Is a bear canister provided?
Guests are typically required to bring their own canister; check with the operator if rentals are available or if one is included in logistics.
What about altitude or acclimatization?
Summits approach 9,900'—if you’re not acclimatized, take it easy the first day, stay hydrated, and monitor for symptoms of altitude sickness.
Can beginners join this trip?
This is intended for experienced hikers with a high fitness level; novices without multi-day backpacking experience should train beforehand or choose an introductory trip.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 days
Location
Yosemite Valley, California
Difficulty
difficult
Fitness Level
Requires high aerobic fitness and experience carrying a loaded pack over sustained uphill miles and exposed sections
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