Backpacking the Yosemite High Sierra Camps (2026)

Backpacking the Yosemite High Sierra Camp Loop | Glen Aulin, May Lake, Sunrise & Cathedral Lakes Experience one of the most iconic backpacking routes in Yosemite National Park as I hike a portion of the Yosemite High Sierra Camp Loop*. This multi-day adventure takes us through some of the park's most spectacular alpine scenery, connecting three historic High Sierra Camps—*Glen Aulin*, *May Lake*, and *Sunrise High Sierra Camp*—before returning via the legendary *John Muir Trail and beautiful *Cathedral Lakes*. 0:00 (Day 1 - Tuolumne to Glen Aulin) 3:21 (Day 2 - Glen Aulin to May Lake) 7:33 (Day 3 - May Lake to Sunrise) 12:30 (Day 4 - Sunrise to Tuolumne via Cathedral Lakes) Along the way, we'll hike through granite basins, alpine meadows, pristine forests, and high mountain passes while enjoying incredible views of Yosemite's backcountry. From rushing waterfalls near Glen Aulin to the peaceful shores of May Lake and the expansive vistas surrounding Sunrise Camp, this loop showcases a side of Yosemite that many visitors never experience. In this video, you'll see: • A complete backpacking journey around the Yosemite High Sierra Camp Loop • Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp and the Tuolumne River canyon • Scenic May Lake beneath Mount Hoffmann • Sunrise High Sierra Camp and surrounding alpine landscapes • Hiking the famous John Muir Trail • Cathedral Lakes and Cathedral Peak • Campsites, trail conditions, and backpacking tips • Stunning Sierra Nevada scenery throughout the trip Whether you're planning your own High Sierra Camp Loop adventure or simply want to experience Yosemite's incredible wilderness, this video offers a firsthand look at one of California's premier backpacking routes. Trip Information 📍 Location: Yosemite National Park, California 🥾 Route: Yosemite High Sierra Camp Loop 🏕️ Highlights: Glen Aulin, May Lake, Sunrise High Sierra Camp, John Muir Trail, Cathedral Lakes ⛰️ Difficulty: Strenuous 🎒 Wilderness Permit Required: Yes You can read a full trip report at: https://www.sdpeakbagger.com/2026/06/... Paid Promotion: https://bowlandkettle.com/ Thank you for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe to the SDPeakbagger YouTube Channel:    / @sdpeakbagger   If you enjoy backpacking, hiking, and exploring America's national parks, don't forget to **like**, **subscribe**, and turn on notifications for more trail guides and wilderness adventures. 🥾🥾🥾🥾🥾 👋 I’m Chris, a San Diego-based peak bagger and sometimes backpacker. In 2019, I became the third finisher of the 100 Peak Challenge, which consisted of summiting one hundred peaks in the County of San Diego in a calendar year. Since then, I have completed the San Diego Sierra Club 100 Peaks list, numerous Six-Pack of Peaks Challenges (SoCal, San Diego, Central Coast, and Arizona Winter), and the yearly Coast to Crest Challenge. Follow me also on Instagram @sdpeakbagger Read past adventures at: https://www.sdpeakbagger.com Or send me an email at: chris.griffith@gmail.com #Yosemite #YosemiteNationalPark #HighSierraCamp #Backpacking #JohnMuirTrail #CathedralLakes #GlenAulin #MayLake #SunriseHighSierraCamp #CaliforniaHiking #SierraNevada #NationalParks #WildernessBackpacking #OutdoorAdventure #HikingCalifornia