It’s Still John Muir’s Yosemite – Anyway You Experience It
He would probably be all for it – anything to get people into nature and experience the transformative beauty that is Yosemite. A gregarious sort, he would probably interrupt his rambles and take a selfie with you. He would be among the first to endorse any way to responsibly enjoy our natural treasures.
That is why Four Seasons Guides crafts
Yosemite multi-day backpacking trips for all level of adventurer.
The High Sierra Beginners Backpack takes advantage of lighter backpacks and shorter hiking routes into the backcountry where hikers can enjoy more day hiking exploration in order to enjoy those calendar-worthy highlights in the High Country wilderness.
When John Muir went out to explore the Yosemite Valley he packed a loaf or two of homemade bread, a jug of water, and a packet of tea. What would the founder of the Sierra Club think of today’s glamping?
On the Half Dome Hiking expedition, we take a 5-mile backpack to the stunning Little Yosemite Valley where we setup a basecamp and embark on a day hike to the summit of this iconic granite monolith before returning to camp for a second night. It’s a great way to climb this world-renowned classic and spend a couple of nights camping in the backcountry.
Even our most challenging Yosemite trip – six days and 48 miles to the 11,150 foot Red Peak Pass, the highest point in the park accessible by trail – would not be John Muir’s idea of “roughing up.” Backpackers are accompanied by a licensed and medically trained guide, so safety is paramount at all times.
While Muir espoused the virtues of long periods of time in the wilderness on a meager diet, Four Seasons always has a generous supply of gourmet backcountry delights when attacking those steep ascents.
Delicious and nutritious meals are prepared in camp each night and morning by the guides. For those looking to achieve the same transcendence in the wilderness that Muir described in his writings it is informative to note that the naturalist did not live off the land – he neither hunted nor fished – and his typical state on backcountry travels was “hungry.” As a full grown man his weight dipped as low as 90 pounds. Austerity is not always a requirement for self-revelation.
Whether it was the 1860s or the 2010s the Yosemite has a way of filling your memory book. John Muir captured his in journals; today the waterfalls and granite peaks and crystalline lakes are memorialized in social media accounts.
Just because backpackers now gather in the many gastropubs and microbreweries that line the fringes of
Yosemite National Park to recount their backpacking tour adventures, does not make them any less life-enriching than when they were shared over campfire coals and soda crackers. For that matter, if John Muir were around today he would be right in the middle of your celebration, probably dominating the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover how to experience Yosemite National Park like John Muir — through guided multi-day backpacking trips that blend adventure, nature, and responsible exploration.
Do you need a permit to backpack in John Muir Wilderness?
Yes. Backpacking anywhere in the Yosemite Wilderness, including along the John Muir Trail, requires a wilderness permit. These permits control visitor numbers to protect the environment and ensure a safe, sustainable experience. If your hike starts in Yosemite and exits through Donohue Pass, you’ll need a special permit for that route.
Does the John Muir Trail go through Yosemite?
Yes. The John Muir Trail begins in Yosemite Valley and runs through several national parks — Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia. It covers some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery in California, including granite peaks, waterfalls, and high mountain passes.
How long does it take to backpack the John Muir Trail?
Most hikers complete the John Muir Trail in about three weeks. Average backpackers cover 10–12 miles per day, though seasoned hikers may do up to 17 miles daily. Guided trips often cover shorter sections over several days for a more accessible and immersive experience.
What is the best backpacking trail in Yosemite?
Popular routes include the John Muir Trail, Half Dome hike, and the Red Peak Pass loop. The Upper Yosemite Falls Trail is also a favorite for its panoramic views. Guided multi-day hikes offer a balance of challenge and comfort, with gourmet camp meals and expert guides.
What makes guided backpacking in Yosemite unique?
Guided trips provide safety, comfort, and insight into Yosemite’s history and ecosystems. Licensed guides handle navigation, meal preparation, and safety protocols, allowing adventurers to focus on the scenery and experience without the logistical stress of planning.
How difficult are Yosemite backpacking trips?
Difficulty varies by route. Beginner trips feature shorter hikes with lighter packs and more time for exploration. Advanced routes like Red Peak Pass involve longer days and higher elevations. All guided trips include expert support to ensure safety and enjoyment at any experience level.
What did John Muir think about wilderness travel?
John Muir believed deeply in nature’s power to inspire and heal. While he lived simply in the wild, he would likely appreciate today’s efforts to make the outdoors more accessible — from guided trips to modern gear — as long as it encourages people to connect respectfully with nature.
Can beginners join a Yosemite backpacking tour?
Absolutely. Companies like Four Seasons Guides design beginner-friendly itineraries such as the High Sierra Beginners Backpack, which offers shorter routes, lighter gear, and expert support — perfect for first-time adventurers looking to experience Yosemite’s grandeur safely and comfortably.
What kind of food is served on guided Yosemite trips?
Unlike John Muir’s meager bread-and-tea diet, modern guided tours feature freshly prepared, nutritious meals. Guides cook hearty breakfasts and dinners in camp, ensuring hikers stay energized throughout their journey while enjoying a taste of comfort in the backcountry.
Why is John Muir important to Yosemite?
John Muir’s writings and advocacy were instrumental in the creation of Yosemite National Park. His passion for wilderness preservation inspired generations of conservationists and continues to shape how people experience and protect the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
Four Season Guides, 506 N Grant St suite o, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, United States
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