Price: $350    Gear Add On: $80   Food Add On: $50

Participants: 6

Refund Policy: $50 non-refundable service fee.  Remaining balance refundable up to 30 days before trip.  No refunds will be given for cancellations within 30 days of the trip.  Full refunds for any trip cancellations made by Step Into Your Journey.

Rancheria Falls is located in the Hetch Hetchy area of Yosemite National Park.  The trek will start by crossing the dam and going through a tunnel bored through the granite wall of the valley.  The trail will take us along the reservoir, passing Tueeulala Falls and then Wapama Falls, before we climb to our final destination; Rancheria Falls.

This two night backpacking adventure is open to anyone, but prior backpacking experience is advised.  Beginner backpackers are welcome, with prior hiking (in hills) experience, provided we have a discussion beforehand.

Day 1, will be a 6 ish mile hike up a fairly steep (1000ft ish) incline with amazing views of the Hetch Hetchy reservoir.  The trail is rocky and uneven so hiking poles are recommended but not required.  We will pass a waterfall (the flows will be amazing this time of year) as we make our way up to Rancheria falls to find our campsite for the weekend.  We will set up camp, enjoy the falls, and relax for the rest of the evening.

Day 2, we will enjoy a leisurely breakfast then lighten our packs and do a day hike in the surrounding area.

Day 3, we will pack up camp and make the trek back down to the car.  For those interested, we will stop at the Lucky Buck Cafe for cold beverages and food.

Participants will meet at the Lucky Buck Cafe https://goo.gl/maps/tDiKksS9dCE8fYx39  in Groveland at 7:15 am and we will caravan in from there.  We will make our way to the overnight parking lot where we will distribute gear, and pack our packs for those joining as “all inclusive”.  Camping the night prior at the backpackers campground is an option we can discuss.

Skill Level:  While no backpacking experience is required, participants should have some hiking experience in hills.  This trip does require that you be able to walk up hill, carrying a 25-35 lb pack and will be up hill on uneven ground.

Each participant will carry their own pack with their personal belongings and gear if providing their own.  Provided equipment, and group food/cooking equipment will be split among the “all inclusive” participants to distribute the weight.  Bear canisters are required in Yosemite, and this is an active bear area so we will be diligent about packing and storage.

What is included in the base price:

• Experienced guide with a 1:6 guide/participant ratio.
  • Wilderness First Aid Certified
  • GPS Emergency device
  • Group first aid kit
• Group informational zoom meeting prior to the trip
• All necessary permits
• Water filtration

What is included in Gear Add On:  

• Backpack
• Sleeping Bag (0 degree)
• Sleeping Pad
• 3 person tent (double occupancy)
• Head lamp
• Hiking Poles
• Bear Canister

What is included in Food Add On:

• 2 Dinners
• 2 Breakfasts
• Coffee/tea/cocoa
• Dessert
• Bear Canister

What is not included:

• Transportation
• Park entry fees
• Lunch/trail snacks
• Gratuities

It is important to remember that carrying 25-30 pounds on your back is much easier than carrying it in your arms.  Packs are designed for the bulk of the weight to sit on your hips with your legs doing the work.  Equally important is to remember that we have to carry with us anything we are taking so being selective in what we take is important.  Participants will be provided a suggested packing list, prior to the event, with a virtual meeting for beginners 2 weeks prior to the event to iron out specific details.

Please do not assume you can’t do this.  If you have questions, please contact me and we can discuss if this trip is appropriate for you.