A private day in Yosemite — thoughtfully planned and shaped around you.
Not sure which trail makes the most sense for your visit?
Wondering how early to start, how much ground you can realistically cover, or how to avoid the busiest stretches of the day?
Or maybe you already know exactly where you want to go — and just want someone experienced alongside you to help make it happen smoothly.
Either way, we’ll talk in advance about what you’re hoping for — sweeping views, a physical challenge, quiet forest, iconic landmarks, or something less obvious — and shape a day that fits your pace, your ability, and the conditions at that time of year.
We’ll plan the day together in advance, and as it unfolds, we’ll talk through decisions as they come up and make thoughtful adjustments based on how things are feeling — the weather, the pace, your energy, the trail.
This keeps you in the experience — not just following along.
This isn’t a group tour.
It isn’t a rigid script.
It’s a private day in Yosemite, done well.
What a Day Might Look Like
Every hike is different, but most guided days follow a natural rhythm.
Sometimes that means an early start to stay ahead of heat or crowds.
Other times it means a relaxed morning and a steady build into the day.
Yosemite is known for its elevation, and many routes involve sustained climbing — but not every meaningful day requires a summit.
We might aim for a well-known objective like:
- Clouds Rest
- Yosemite Falls
- The Mist Trail
- Mariposa Grove
- A high country lakes route from Tuolumne Meadows
Or we might spend the day moving through Yosemite Valley, linking viewpoints, waterfalls, meadows, and quieter stretches of the Valley Loop Trail in a way that feels steady and unhurried.
We’ll choose a route that fits your goals and your pace.
Who This Is For
A private guided day hike is a good fit if:
- You prefer your own space rather than joining a larger group
- You want to move at your pace, not someone else’s
- You enjoy asking questions and learning as you go
- You value understanding the landscape — its history, geology, and stories — not just walking through it
- You want time to pause, take photos and video, and capture the moments that drew you here
- You’re visiting Yosemite for the first time and want to experience it thoughtfully
- Or you’ve been here before and want to see it with deeper context
You don’t need to be an expert hiker.
You do need to be comfortable walking several miles on uneven terrain, sometimes with sustained elevation gain.
What’s Included
- A private, full-day guided hike
- Pre-trip conversation to align expectations and route
- Route selection based on current conditions
- Leadership and navigation throughout the day
- Wilderness First Aid–trained guide
- First aid and emergency equipment
- Backcountry water filtration when available
- Recommendations for the rest of your Yosemite stay
You’re hiring experience, awareness, and a steady presence on the trail.
What’s Not Included
- Park entrance fee
- Transportation to or within Yosemite National Park
- Meals and personal snacks
- Personal hiking gear
- Guide gratuity
What You’ll Bring
- Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes
- A small day pack
- Water bottle or a hydration reservoir
- Lunch and personal snacks
- Weather-appropriate layers
- Sun protection
Many Yosemite trails have natural water sources, depending on the season. I carry a backcountry water filter and will manage group water filtration when appropriate.
You should bring enough water capacity to comfortably hike several miles between sources. If you prefer to carry and filter your own water independently, you’re welcome to bring your own system — but it isn’t required.
After booking, you’ll receive a simple gear overview so nothing feels uncertain.
Fitness & Expectations
Full-day hikes can range from shorter, mostly level routes in Yosemite Valley to longer efforts of 7–15 miles with sustained elevation gain.
Not sure what’s realistic for you? That’s part of the conversation.
Some guests want to challenge themselves.
Others want a strong but measured day.
We’ll choose something that fits your experience level and energy — not something that looks impressive on paper but feels wrong halfway through.
Pricing
All guided day hikes are private.
| Group Size | Total Price |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $550 |
| 2 People | $675 |
| 3 People | $775 |
| 4 People | $850 |
| 5 People | $925 |
| 6 People | $1,000 |
Pricing reflects a full day of private guiding.
If you’re interested in a specific objective that requires additional coordination or permit considerations, we’ll discuss that upfront before confirming your date.
No hidden tiers.
No surprise add-ons.
How Booking Works
Choose your date directly from the calendar below.
If a date is available, it’s genuinely available.
Select your group size, complete payment, and your day is secured.
After booking, you’ll complete a short intake questionnaire so I understand your experience, goals, and any logistical details that matter.
You’ll also have the option to request a brief 15–20 minute planning call. If you prefer to keep things simple, we can finalize everything by email.
From there, I’ll review your responses and follow up with a proposed route, meeting location, timing details, and any gear notes specific to your hike.
Clear plan. No guesswork.
A Final Thought
Yosemite can feel overwhelming — especially in peak season.
I’ve spent years learning how this park behaves — how crowds flow through it, how conditions change throughout the day, and which choices make a route feel smooth instead of rushed. That perspective shapes the experience in ways that aren’t always visible from a map.
That’s where experience matters.
Ready to Plan Your Day?
If a private day in Yosemite sounds like the right fit, choose your date below and we’ll take it from there.
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