California High Sierra Odyssey Trek Tour| MT Sobek

Peaks & Lakes of the John Muir Wilderness

Lace up your boots for an epic high-altitude adventure, traversing 50 miles in the stunning John Muir Wilderness - just south of Yosemite National Park. Follow rugged trails, with pristine lakes and epic mountain scenery at every turn, and navigate two high passes: Silver Pass (10,745') and Goodale Pass (11.001'). Marvel at views of the Silver Divide, a granite and slate spur rising majestically from the tree line, and enjoy a thermal backcountry soak at Iva Bell Hot Springs. At night, experience camp comforts at tranquil spots surrounded by spectacular vistas. This loop-style itinerary includes remote alpine terrain that thru-hikers wish they had more time to explore!

Navigate spectacular mountain and lakeside trails through California's John Muir Wilderness-including parts of the John Muir Trail

Tackle two incredible high passes with expansive views of the stunning Silver Divide

Unwind at Iva Bell Hot Springs and enjoy high-altitude comforts at remote camps

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

We have 30 years of experience guiding adventures on the John Muir Trail and in the High Sierras.

Reason #02

This adventure is fully supported by guides and pack mules, so you'll have the luxury of exploring without carrying a heavy pack.

Reason #03

Experienced professional guides will take you on spectacular and remote trails in the heart of the John Muir Wilderness.

Meet your guides

Fred Ackerman

Fred enjoyed his first backpacking trip in college, walking 20+ miles in inappropriate footwear and spent a few cold nights in front of the fire without a sleeping bag, and caught the bug from there. Soon, he was spending most of his free time and some not-so-free time plotting and executing adventures to the endless wild places of California. Fred is now an EMT with a certification in wilderness medicine. He's hiked and climbed thousands of miles around the Sierra including a solo 200+ mile hike of the Sierra High Route. Fred's familiarity of the High Sierra and deep passion for the backcountry consistently endears him to MT Sobek hikers.

Sierra Zacks

Sierra was born and raised on the entrance road to Joshua Tree National Park and spent her early years hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding in the park and the nearby high Sierra. She went on to graduate from UC Santa Cruz with a degree in Ecology and Plant Biology. During this period, she worked UC Santa Cruz's Adventure Outings Department where she led climbing, backpacking, and river trips. She now spends her summers in the High Sierra leading trips and exploring the beautiful landscape. In her free time you can find her rock climbing, botanizing, or birdwatching in the mountains.

Alex Kendrall

Alex grew up in Concord, New Hampshire exploring the mountains of New England. It was here that his spirit and passion for adventure began. Alex's passion for shared wilderness experiences has culminated in a degree in Outdoor Education and certifications from the American Mountain Guiding Association (AMGA). Moving to California was the culmination of a dream come true, where he is able to combine his passion for climbing with a career in guiding. He has a tremendous amount of experience in the backcountry and great leadership qualities which endear him to MT Sobek travelers.

Activities

Rewarding hikes through California's High Sierra, relaxing in hot springs and swimming in lakes, camping under the stars.

Lodging

A full-service hotel in Fresno to kick off the adventure and camps in pristine wilderness settings along the way.

Climate

Temperatures range from 65-75°F in the day with evenings dropping to 35-45°F. Showers and thunderstorms are a possibility.

FAQ

What kind of food can we expect?

Your guides take pride in preparing delicious meals that keep your energy level high even in remote surroundings. Meals are packed with nutrition, are hearty, and will keep you satisfied.

Are there mosquitos?

The presence of mosquitos can fluctuate dramatically from year to year depending on the amount of snowfall during the winter. It's recommended to arrive prepared to encounter some mosquitos during your trip.

Is there any cell phone connectivity up there?

Cell phone connectivity will be non-existent for the majority of our trip. Connectivity will be possible before and after our time in the wilderness. Guides carry emergency satellite communication devices.

What do I have to carry on this trip?

You only carry a daypack the entire way. Mules & guides will carry 15 pounds of each client's gear and you are responsible for carrying any weight over this.

How is water treatment handled on this trip?

We supply water filters on this trip. Although the water in the Sierra is renowned for its cleanliness, we still take precautions. You are responsible for filtering your own daily water.