High sierra running retreat
60 - 100 miles
6 days, 5 nights
Group Size: Up to 13 guests
$2,145
Yosemite National Park, an adventurer’s paradise, offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. Our fully supported, carefully crafted itinerary takes runners deep into the Yosemite wilderness and back again, highlighting both iconic landmarks and hidden gems along the way. The route over the 6 days is designed to be a continuous footpath that traverses almost the entire park, beginning on the Valley Rim and ending high above Tuolumne, offering a truly immersive experience through the heart of Yosemite’s diverse landscapes.
2025 Dates & pricing
Early Sign Up: $1,945
*ends Feb 15th
Regular Sign Up: $2,145
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This retreat isn’t a race—it's a welcoming space designed to build community, connect with new people, and embrace new (and sometimes challenging) experiences. You don’t need to identify as a runner to join us. Most of our routes can be hiked too! Whether you're an experienced athlete or just curious about trail running, everyone is welcome to come as they are.
What to Bring
All you need to bring is your personal running kit, clothes, and personal items. We provide the rest!
Travel & Logistics
For those traveling from out of state, we recommend flying into Fresno International Airport and booking a stay at one of the nearby hotels. WSA will coordinate transportation from the Fresno area to Yosemite. We'll reach out to you before your trip to confirm your travel details.
Training & Preperation
Our goal is to make trail running adventures more accessible and less intimidating for all runners, whether you’re new to the sport or experienced. That said, this itinerary is still quite challenging, and we highly recommend proper training. At a minimum, you should be comfortable hiking up to 20 miles in a day at a reasonable pace.
Booking
A $450 deposit is required to reserve your spot, with the remaining balance due 60 days before your departure date. Be sure to review our flexible cancellation policy before booking.
For more details on travel, logistics, training, and what to expect from this retreat, download our trip packet!
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Day 1
Meet in Yosemite and shake out run (3-4 miles)
We’ll meet up at our campsite in Yosemite around 1PM. After orientation, we’ll go on a relaxed shake out run to get the legs moving and enjoy the stunning scenery. A big dinner will be served at camp to prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2
Tunnel View, Sentinel Dome, to Four Mile Trail (20 miles, +5,300 ft)
-or- McGurk Meadow start (13.5 miles, +2,300 ft)
For our first day on the trails, runners can choose between two options. The first begins at Tunnel View and winds up to Taft Point and Sentinel Dome before descending the Four Mile Trail. The second option is slightly shorter and begins from McGurk Meadow, joining the first route at Taft Point, and continuting to Sentinel Dome and down the Four Mile Trail.
Day 3
Glacier Point to Cloud’s Rest (20 miles)
After an early breakfast, runners will be shuttled up to Glacier Point to continue from yesterday’s high point. The route winds along the Panorama Trail, crosses over the top of Nevada Falls, and ascends to Cloud’s Rest (9,931 feet), where incredible panoramic views await from one of Yosemite's most iconic peaks. The day’s journey concludes at the shores of pristine Tenaya Lake—perfect for a refreshing swim before shuttling back to basecamp.
Day 4
Sunrise to Cathedral (12.5 miles) & Young Lakes Loop (12.5 miles)
Starting at Tenaya Lake, we’ll link up with the renowned John Muir Trail and make our way over Cathedral Pass. The crew will be waiting in Tuolumne Meadows with lunch and cold drinks. After lunch, runners can either relax by the Tuolumne River for the afternoon or continue on for an optional second run. The extended route heads up to Young Lakes, a stunning alpine basin, and then loops back to the summit of Lembert Dome before rejoining the crew.
Day 5
Vogelsang Peak (23 miles) -or- Unicorn Peak (10.5 miles)
For our final day on the trails, we set our sights on a summit. Runners can choose to tackle the challenging ascent of Vogelsang Peak or opt for a shorter route to Unicorn Peak. Each offers stunning views of Tuolumne and the surrounding High Sierra, with expansive panoramas that reward the effort. Both routes include fun and challenging off-trail travel, giving runners a chance to put their mountain skills to the test.
Day 6
After coffee and breakfast, we’ll pack up and shuttle runners to their lodging for the night. It’s a time to reflect on the miles covered, the memories made, and the friendships formed. We’ll share final stories from the trail and celebrate the achievements of the week before saying our goodbyes.
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Campsites in Yosemite National Park for all 5 nights
Park Entry Reservations
All basecamp gear (stoves, first aid, etc)
Personal camping gear, if requested (Tent, Sleeping bag & pad)
Transportation between guest accommodations and Yosemite pre and post trip
All meals from Dinner on Day 1 to Breakfast on Day 6
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Personal Running Kit (Vest, Shoes, water storage)
Lodging pre or post trip
Personal Clothing
Trip Insurance
Gratuity for guides
DOWNLOAD THE TRIP PACKET BELOW FOR THE DETAILED ITINERARY, GPX FILES, AND MORE!
trip faq
Do I need to be an experienced runner to join?
Nope! Our retreats are open to all levels, whether you’re new to trail running or have years of experience. Each day offers route options with varying distances, so you can choose what feels right for you.
American Pika
(ochotona princeps)
Do I have to run the whole time?
Definitely not! Hiking and walking are both parts of running in mountainous terrain, and many participants choose to hike sections, especially on steeper or more technical trails. It’s entirely possible to hike large portions of each day and still complete the routes in the given time frame.
Can I take a rest day?
Yes, you can choose to take a rest day whenever you like. Relax at basecamp, enjoy the scenery, or opt for a shorter run or hike. Our basecamp team will be there to facilitate an activity or just hang out :)
Can I run at my own pace, or do I need to stay with the group?
You’re welcome to run or hike at your own pace—this retreat is all about enjoying the trails your way. Naturally, pace groups will form, and we encourage you to run with others to meet new people and share the experience. Our guides will be on the trail for support, ensuring everyone is safe and accounted for.
Looking to run with just your crew?
We can create exclusive trips that are tailor-made for your adventures. Whether you're planning a vacation with friends, celebrating a milestone, or require a precise itinerary for your training block, we've got you covered.
photos by Jess Cooper, doodles by Keegan Pfeiffer