Guided Hike for Families in Yosemite

HIKE TO A HIDDEN LAKE & SWIM

DISCOVER YOSEMITE'S

HIDDEN GEM

A guided hike for families and anyone seeking a unique adventure. We’ll take you off the beaten path to secluded Polly Dome Lake for swimming and a picnic. This lake is so hidden, it’s not on any trails! Explore a side of Yosemite that few tourists ever see.

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

Image of three people standing on rocks in middle of lake with arms outstretched

HERE'S WHAT AWAITS...

Hike Yosemite’s high country, away from the crowded valley
Follow your guide off-trail to Polly Dome Lake
Swim to rock islands & enjoy a picnic served by your guide

This private day hike is perfect for groups with a variety of ages and abilities who still want to adventure together.

You’ll start by hiking through the forest of Yosemite’s high country, far away from the crowds of the valley. The day’s highlight is following your guide off-trail, to an alpine lake so secluded, most tourists would never find it on their own! On the lakeshore, your guide will prepare a delicious picnic while you swim. Then, we’ll stroll around the shoreline together, relax in a hammock, or jump back into the water!

Leave with family photos and unforgettable memories of a fun day hiking in the Yosemite wilderness!

TRIP DETAILS

How challenging is this trip?

This trail is 5.5 miles round trip with 650 feet of elevation gain. You will hike through some incline, with one steep climb at the end that might make you sweaty.
This trip is rated as beginner level. Most people who enjoy physical activity will enjoy this hike.

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 (1L)
• Sunscreen
• Bug Spray
• Raincoat
• Warm Layer
• Swimsuit
• Small Towel

Optional:
• Child Life Jacket
• Sandals, to wear at the lake
• Cash, to tip your guide!

What time and place do we meet?

We meet at 9am at the Murphy Creek Trailhead parking lot. Meet your guide by the bathrooms.

What dates are available?

This trip operates from the middle of June through October. Click here to see available dates.

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.

How do I contact you?

I’d be happy to answer your questions!
• Email: LamplightersAdventures@gmail.com
• Phone: (209) 336-3147

Chat with a trip planning expert!

"Even though trails like the Mist Trail are pretty popular, Jesse knew all the hidden gems. He took us to the best spots for photos, cool shady areas, and spots away from the crowds. It made the trip feel so much more special."

"My experience with Jesse and Lamplighters in Yosemite in July '23 was EPIC. Jesse goes above and beyond to insure his guests have an excellent experience. The trip was EPIC!"

"We wouldn’t usually hire a guide for this kind of trip. But this was worth it. What we gained in depth of experience far outweighs the cost. My whole family had an amazing time, including our three year old!"

"I had the most amazing experience with Jesse in Yosemite. I did this adventure with two of my daughters. It is a trip we will never forget. We are thankful we got to experience the beauty of Yosemite with a confident and experienced leader."

"It was my first time doing this difficult hike in Yosemite, so I was a bit nervous - Jesse put me at ease and was very supportive and encouraging through the entire trip.I feel like the wilderness is now opened to me."

"This was our first experience of a trip like this, and Jesse made me feel so comfortable - he was patient, encouraging, very knowledgeable and made the whole experience really fun!"

"Jesse is an amazing guide! From start to finish everything was planned out thoroughly. Jesse felt like a long time friend even though we just met and going solo that really was comforting. As soon as I can I really am hoping to sign up for another adventure!"

"Jesse has a presence that really puts you at ease. He’s got every detail covered, his enthusiasm and passion for the area shine, but he was also calm, relaxed, and really “go with the flow” through the whole trip. 10/10! Thank you, Jesse!"

"I created a special bond with my family by completing such an arduous goal, and I learned to appreciate the great outdoors. I can’t say enough about what this trip represents to me. Anytime I think I can’t do something, I remember this adventure."

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