Yosemite Icons: A 5-Day Backpacking Route Around El Capitan, Yosemite Falls and North Dome
A five-day guided backpacking route that takes you above Yosemite Falls, along the rim past North Dome, and to the summit viewpoints above El Capitan—includes permits, guides and backcountry gear for an intense but logistics-light wilderness experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Expect steep, sustained climbs
Several days include long ascents (e.g., 3.2 miles +2,500–2,820 ft to Yosemite Falls); train on long grades with a loaded pack.
Water is available but treat it
You’ll camp beside creeks; carry a filter or purification tablets and plan water breaks into each day’s schedule.
Footwear for rock and scree
Sturdy, grippy boots with ankle support are best—granite slabs get slick when wet and talus fields demand solid traction.
Start times and timing
Guides meet at Half Dome Village at 3:00 PM on day one; plan to finish day five by early afternoon and allow travel buffers.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Midday lookout above El Capitan where climbers’ portaledges can be observed
- •Mirror Lake approach on descent for a quiet reflective photo of Half Dome
Wildlife
- •Mule deer
- •Gray squirrel and various songbirds
Conservation Note
The trip follows Leave No Trace principles and operates under park backcountry permit rules to minimize campsite impacts and protect water sources.
Yosemite’s landscapes are carved by glacial ice and shaped culturally by the Ahwahnechee people; modern park use and climbing history began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Photographer's Notes
- • Top of Yosemite Falls (panoramic valley views)
- • Rim above El Capitan for climber shots
- • North Dome/Indian Ridge looking at Half Dome
What to Bring
Backpacking pack (45–65L)Essential
Holds your sleeping kit, layers and personal items for multi-day carries.
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Protects ankles and provides traction on granite slabs and scree.
3-season sleeping bag (to ~20°F)Essential
Keeps you warm at camps near 6,700–6,820 feet on cool nights.
Water filter or purification tabletsEssential
Treat creek water; guides may have pumps but personal backup is smart.
Common Questions
Are permits included?
Yes—the guided trip includes backcountry permits and the operator handles permits for the group.
What level of experience is required?
Participants should have prior backpacking experience and a high level of cardiovascular fitness; guides do not assume novices.
How much weight will I carry?
Guides provide group gear and some backpacking equipment; expect to carry a personal pack of roughly 25–35 lbs with clothing, food portions and shelter.
Are meals provided?
All trail meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner for four days) are included while on the backcountry portion; front-country meals on day one are on your own.
What about altitude and weather?
Camps sit around 6,700–6,820 ft—altitude effects are possible; pack layers for cool nights and check spring snow conditions for early-season trips.
What is the group size and guide ratio?
Trips run with up to 10 participants in shared groups and professional guides who manage navigation, cooking and safety.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 days (approx. 40–50 hours on trail)
Location
Yosemite Valley, California
Difficulty
difficult
Fitness Level
Requires high aerobic fitness and prior multi-day backpacking experience; comfortable carrying 25–35 lb packs on steep terrain.
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