Yosemite + Lake Tahoe | 5-Day Camping Trip
DURATION:
5 Days/4 Nights
AVAILABILITY:
June
GROUP SIZE:
Max 6-12
STARTS/ENDS:
Reno, NV
TRIP STYLE:
Camping
ACTIVITY LEVEL:
OVERVIEW
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day camping journey through two of North America’s most stunning mountain destinations: Yosemite National Park and the breathtaking Lake Tahoe. Beginning in Reno, our scenic drive through the Sierra Nevada Mountains offers a preview of the incredible landscapes ahead. Led by our expert guides, we’ll explore Yosemite’s iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome, fully immersing ourselves in the park’s natural beauty. On the tour, we’ll marvel at rushing rivers, towering waterfalls, and visit groves of Giant Sequoias—some of the oldest and largest trees on Earth. In Lake Tahoe, we’ll hike to Emerald Bay, relax by its crystal-clear waters, and take in the surrounding towering peaks. With each day offering breathtaking views, showers, tranquil settings, and unforgettable experiences. Click here to learn more about our private tours.
MountainBased is an authorized Permittee of the National Park Service
HIGHLIGHTS
- Experience Vernal Falls and optional Nevada Falls on the Mist Trail, offering breathtaking views and refreshing mist.
- Explore the world's oldest and largest trees in Mariposa Grove, a remarkable testament to nature's resilience.
- Find serenity amidst Yosemite's awe-inspiring landscapes, surrounded by towering cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome, and the majestic cascades of Yosemite Falls.
- Take in sweeping vistas of Lake Tahoe's clear waters and rugged mountains on a scenic hike or kayak.
- Benefit from certified guides' expertise and enthusiasm as they lead you through Yosemite and Lake Tahoe, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
- All camping equipment provided (Tent, sleeping bag, comfy sleeping pad, pillow and more!)
ITINERARY
High Sierras & Yosemite National Park
After a brief meet and greet with your fellow travelers and guides, we’ll bid farewell to Reno and embark on a scenic journey through the Sierra Nevada Mountains towards Yosemite National Park. Depending on winter snowpack conditions, our early summer trips will either explore the High Sierras or enter through Tioga Pass, granting access to the Yosemite High Country. This region boasts alpine lakes and high elevation meadows, offering stunning views and serene landscapes.
Plan on an introductory hike upon arrival, allowing us to acclimate while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. This evening, we’ll set up camp with gear provided by Mountainbased, and enjoy a delicious meal provided by your guides. As night falls, we’ll camp under Yosemite’s starry skies, as we connect with nature and disconnect from our day to day lives.
Driving Time: 3.5 hours
Hiking: 1-3 miles | Minimal elevation gain
Accommodation: Camping just outside of Yosemite National Park
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Explore Yosemite Valley & Hike the Mist Trail
Wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on an unforgettable hike in Yosemite Valley along the Mist Trail. As we enter the valley, marvel at the towering cliffs that soar nearly 4,000 vertical feet above the valley floor, offering iconic views of landmarks like El Capitan (featured in the documentary “Free Solo”) and Half Dome. Our hike follows the Merced River, leading us to impressive waterfalls. Feel the refreshing mist as you ascend to Vernal Falls, or for those seeking a challenge, continue to the top of Nevada Falls. After our rewarding hike, take time to unwind and soak in the beauty of Yosemite Valley before savoring a delicious dinner prepared by our knowledgeable guides. As night descends, gather around the campfire for stories under the stars, the perfect end to an exhilarating day.
Driving Time: Local
Hiking: 3-7 miles | Elevation varies between 1100-2200 ft.
Accommodation: Camping just outside of Yosemite National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit Mariposa Grove’s Ancient Sequoias & Yosemite Valley Views
Today, our expedition takes us to Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove, home to some of the planet’s oldest and largest trees. Among these towering sequoias, we’ll wander, marveling at their enduring resilience and the profound beauty of nature’s handiwork. After our exploration, we’ll continue to uncover Yosemite’s hidden gems, from cascading waterfalls to panoramic vistas, before returning to camp for a cozy evening. Gathered around the campfire under the starry sky, we’ll share tales of the day’s adventures.
Driving Time: Local
Hiking: 3-7 miles | +/- 1200 ft.
Accommodation: Camping just outside of Yosemite National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to Lake Tahoe & Hike with a View
Bid farewell to Yosemite as we head to the beautiful shores of Lake Tahoe. Upon arrival at our campsite, we’ll set up and then venture out on a short introductory hike. This hike promises sweeping views of Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters and the soothing sounds of rushing streams. It’s a chance to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada before settling in for a relaxing evening by the lake.
Driving Time: 4 Hours
Hiking: 1-3 miles | Elevation varies between 200-600 ft.
Accommodation: Camping just outside of South Lake Tahoe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Emerald Bay & Return to Reno
Experience the natural beauty of Emerald Bay on the final day of your adventure. Begin with a morning hike to capture stunning views of the bay’s crystal-clear waters and towering peaks. Wander through lush forests, keeping an eye out for local wildlife, including the possibility of spotting black bears. After your hike, relax on one of Lake Tahoe’s pristine beaches for lunch. Consider taking advantage of kayak or paddle-board rentals for some continued exploration. As the afternoon approaches, journey back to Reno, allowing moments to appreciate the scenic lake views and perhaps pick up some last-minute souvenirs. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your 5-day journey, cherishing the memories made amidst the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe.
Driving Time: 1.5 hours to Reno
Hiking: 3-5 miles | +/- 400 ft.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Fantastic fun and safe trip with caring and thoughtful guides I’m a solo female traveller in my late 30s and I did the signature Yellowstone and Grand Tetons camping trip with MountainBased. I’ve done a couple of similar types of camping trips with TrekAmerica but I would recommend MountainBased above anyone else for seeing the US national parks. It was a fantastic trip. I wanted a stress-free trip to get some exercise, meet some interesting people, and see some amazing sights and that’s exactly what I got. The advantages of going with MountainBased are that they think of everything, leaving you to relax and enjoy it. The communication before the trip was excellent, I knew exactly where to go, what to bring and what to expect each day. During the trip they provided all the camping and sleeping equipment (and it was nice and clean!), drove us to each place, guided our hikes, kept us safe (I was quite worried about bears but they taught us all the precautions and reassured us while also taking bear safety seriously), found the best toilets and showers and lunch stops, stopped for wildlife viewing and great photo opportunities, cooked for us, loaded all our stuff in the van, had bear spray and sunscreen and bug spray if we needed it, taught us about the area, the history, geology, geography, really everything you could ask for. The vans are comfy, the food is healthy and tasty, the tents and equipment is clean and in good condition, and the campsites have good facilities. The guides really are excellent - we had Tyler D and Kayla but I know from previous trips that Justin and Tyler B are also excellent and I have no doubt that any MountainBased guide would be high quality, professional, knowledgeable and caring. You could tell that our guides really genuinely cared that we all had a great time and knew and cared a lot about the places we visited. They are interesting people and were so enthusiastic and fun but also professional and respectful. We had 7 people in our group from 5 different countries and they took time to chat to each member of the group and made sure no-one was ever left out and that everyone could go at their own pace when hiking. As a woman travelling alone I felt extremely safe and I trusted them to ensure my safety, personal safety, when driving and around wildlife. I would recommend travelling with MountainBased and can’t wait to go again! One of my favorite trips ever! (Yellowstone & Grand Tetons Camping) I went solo on the Yellowstone & Grand Teton Camping Trip. This was one of my favorite trips ever and I've travelled quite a bit. First of all, our guides, Emily & Blanca, were wonderful! From morning to night, they provided a wealth of information, answered tons of questions, and supplied us with great meals and camping instructions. What I appreciated so much was the fact that I was guided to the best sites and experiences of Yellowstone and Grand Teton without much planning other than booking my trip and flight. They timed the day well to avoid crowds and thunderstorms and the sites were just incredible. Throughout long drives, they enthusiastically gave us information on the landscape, vegetation, animals, and more. I also loved all the exercise and beauty during the hikes and bike rides. I even got to jump in a lake next to the Tetons. To add, they were patient and helpful with tips for bear safety. I had never slept in a tent in bear country, but felt fine with the precautions we took. Even the recommended Marriot hotel the day before and after the trip was convenient and helpful. If you're considering going solo, go for it. You'll definitely end up connecting with other campers and hikers during van rides, meals, and walks. This is one of the most gorgeous parts of the US and I'm grateful Mountainbased led me through this experience. - 1
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