MAY LAKE & MOUNT HOFFMAN
THE MOST FUN
SUMMIT IN YOSEMITE
Hike to Mount Hoffman, John Muir’s favorite viewpoint, and swim in May Lake! This private, guided trip is just challenging enough to feel rewarding without being too long. This is Yosemite’s most well-rounded hike, blending adventure, beauty, and fun.
- 8 Hours
- 5.5 Miles
- Moderately Strenuous
Price List
1 person: $690
2 people: $700 ($350 per person)
3 people: $780 ($260 per person)
4 people: $800 ($200 per person)
5 people: $850 ($170 per person)
6 people: $930 ($155 per person)
7 people: $1,015 ($145 per person)
8 people: $1,040 ($130 per person)
PRIVATE TRIP INCLUDES:
• Picnic Lunch
• Trail Snacks
• Hiking Gear (Backpacks & Trekking Poles)
• Expert Wilderness Guide
HERE'S WHAT AWAITS...
- Hike Yosemite’s high country, far from the crowded valley
- Summit Mt. Hoffman. At the center of the park, it’s as if you’re looking down on a life-sized map!
- Jump into beautiful May Lake on the return
After a scenic one mile hike, we’ll arrive at May Lake, tucked beneath granite peaks. It’s a great place to take a break before continuing on.
Next, we’ll make our way up to Mount Hoffman, smack dab in the center of Yosemite. The final stretch is a fun scramble up a pile of boulders! At the top, we’re likely to find marmots chirping and lounging in the sun.
The summit is truly breathtaking. From this central vantage point, Yosemite unfolds in every direction. You’ll see Half Dome and the high country, with distant snow capped peaks stretching to the horizon.
On the way back, we’ll stop again at May Lake. Now that we’ve accomplished our mission to the summit, we’ll take a refreshing dip as our reward.
This is Yosemite’s most well rounded hike: a moderate challenge, incredible views, and a fun swim in an alpine lake… it’s got everything needed for a perfect day!
TRIP DETAILS
How challenging is this trip?
This trail is 5.5 miles round trip with 1,900 feet of elevation gain. Nearly three miles of the trail includes a steep and rocky incline. The last part of the summit requires a short scramble to reach the top.
This trip is rated as moderate. There are sections that are challenging and sections that are just plain fun!
What's included?
Hiking Gear
• Day packs
• Trekking poles
• Water filter
Snacks & Lunch
• Sweet & salty trail snacks
• Picnic lunch
Expert Wilderness Guide
• Makes the hike safe, fun, and enjoyable!
What's not included?
Packing List:
• Sun Hat
• Sunglasses
• Water Bottles (2L)
• Sunscreen
• Bug Spray
• Raincoat
• Warm Layer
• Swimsuit
• Small Towel
Optional:
• Cash, to tip your guide!
What time and place do we meet?
We meet at 9am at the May Lake Trailhead
What dates are available?
This trip operates from the middle of June through October. Click here to see available dates.
How do I contact you?
I’d be happy to answer your questions!
• Email: LamplightersAdventures@gmail.com
• Phone: (209) 336-3147
What is your cancellation policy?
• Cancellations 30 or more days in advance of the trip start date will receive a full refund, minus the booking platform fee and credit card processing fee.
• Cancellations 7 to 29 days in advance will receive a 50% refund, minus the booking platform fee and credit card processing fee.
• Cancellations 6 days or less in advance of the trip start date will receive no refund.
We never cancel a trip due to weather or trail closures, however we will do our best to alter or reroute the trip into one that you will enjoy!
Please make sure you read and understand the Terms & Conditions.
Chat with a trip planning expert!
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Mist Trail & John Muir Trail:
Vernal & Nevada Falls
Moderately Strenuous | 6.5 miles | 8 hours
Best For: Seeing Yosemite’s iconic waterfalls!
Hike Yosemite’s famous Mist Trail. If the water is high, get drenched by the towering Vernal and Nevada Falls! Peek over the edge at the very top, before hiking down the historic John Muir Trail.
Hike to Cathedral Lakes
Moderate | 8 miles | 8 hours
Best For: Exploring Yosemite’s backcountry
Escape the crowds and trek into Yosemite’s remote wilderness. At Cathedral Lakes, you’ll swim, have a picnic, and spot climbers on Cathedral peak. Your guide will take you to little-known viewpoints that will truly take your breath away!
