REI Adventures Tours and Trips

Spend four days backpacking, sightseeing and animal-spotting in Yellowstone’s Lamar and Pelican Valleys. Elk, pronghorn, bear, wolf, moose—there is no shortage of wildlife in Yellowstone’s spectacular Lamar Valley. The area’s vast, far-reaching landscapes are renowned as a haven for these animals, and provide the perfect view for spotting them. The remote Pelican Valley is widely known as a premier grizzly bear habitat in the United States; its meandering meadows and creeks make for a perfectly serene backdrop for our adventure. Beginning in Lamar Valley, backpack south along the banks of the Lamar River, keeping eyes peeled for some of the 67 species of mammals that live in the park. Take a cooling dip in the river, or just let its tranquil sounds lull you to sleep from the comfort of our riverside campsites. Traveling in the shadow of the Absaroka Mountain Range, cross up and over Mist Creek Pass, ultimately dropping down into the beautiful open meadows of the magnificent Pelican Valley. By the end of the through-hike, the sights, sounds and smells of Yellowstone’s most spectacular landscapes will be forever etched into our minds.

Explore Yellowstone’s remote Bechler River on this 4-day backpacking adventure. The call to venture off the beaten path is answered on the remote and majestic trails of the world’s first national park. We explore the Bechler River, a unique destination that offers an up-close vantage of nature at work. Discover teeming rivers and streams, the wonder of pristine geysers and hot springs, and the breathtaking beauty of meadows carpeted with wildflowers. Our hike starts out with a visit to the Lonestar Geyser, the largest backcountry geyser in the park. We then follow the Firehole River, crossing the Continental Divide before arriving at Shoshone Lake and Geyser Basin. Later on our journey, we explore a gorgeous series of hot springs whimsically dubbed, “Mr. Bubbles”. Ford two river beds and enjoy the thundering waterfall view on the other side. Along the way, stop to forage from ripe berry bushes and, with luck, view some of the park’s abundant wildlife. Hiking through the beautiful meadows and forests of Southwestern Yellowstone is a truly unforgettable backcountry experience. Looking for other options in Yellowstone? Check out our Black Canyon and Gallatin Mountains backpacking itineraries, or our Yellowstone Kayaking trip.

Yosemite holds a unique place in the heart of all those who explore its trails—this 4-day trip is perfect evidence as to why. Exalted for its magnificence and revered for its challenging trail; an ascent of Half Dome is an unforgettable adventure. The dome, 8,842 feet of granite rock, is the signature landmark of Yosemite National Park. The Sierra Nevada mountain range, clear alpine lakes and meadows carpeted with wildflowers provide the perfect backdrop for our epic backpacking trip. Our knowledgeable, exceptional guides lead the way—sharing Yosemite’s secrets, preparing delicious meals and imparting backpacking wisdom. We travel between five and twelve miles every day, exploring the diversity of the high country and enjoying campfire camaraderie at night. When the sun comes up, we don our packs and hit challenging trails in pursuit of the top of the iconic Half Dome. As we stand upon the summit, looking down on the valley floor below and the sun rising in the distance, we revel in our accomplishments and in the tremendous journey we have completed.

Reconnect with nature in a South Carolina coastal wildlife refuge. Join a small group of women for a kayaking weekend along South Carolina’s subtropical coast. Our trip takes us to the barrier islands of Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, and our beachside camp on Capers Island is an ideal launch site. Our naturalist guides explain the wildlife, history, and cultural gems we encounter. Each night, we camp on a white-sand beach. The guides whip up Southern-inspired cuisine—no ho-hum grub here—and lead seaside yoga sessions. We wake up to sunrise and purring waves, then head out in search of fun and adventure. Our kayaks glide through the water as alligators snooze along the sunny banks and bottlenose dolphins dip in and out of our wake. Marvel at the ghost oaks of Boneyard Beach. Hike Bulls Island, with its lagoons, palmetto groves, slinky blackwater creeks and historic ruins. Gather oysters for a seafood feast on the dunes. Admire watercolor sunsets. Seek stillness in a moonlight paddle or meditation under the stars. These islands are an oasis from everyday stress. You’ll carry their spirit with you even after we depart.

From the valley floor to an iconic summit, experience the heart of Yosemite National Park on a four-day backcountry adventure worthy of your bucket list. Perfect for fit backpackers and women looking for a truly epic Yosemite adventure, this challenging trip takes you from the valley to the summit of Half Dome—8,842 feet of granite and grandeur. Against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, we pass through high-country meadows carpeted with wildflowers, listen to waterfalls and chirping chickadees, swim in crystal-clear alpine lakes and marvel at some of America’s most magnificent scenery. Our exceptional female guides lead the way—sharing Yosemite’s secrets, preparing spectacular meals (some of the best you’ve ever had on a camping trip, we promise) and imparting field-tested wisdom on women’s gear and backcountry skills. We travel between five and twelve miles every day, exploring the diversity of the Yosemite backcountry and enjoying campfire camaraderie at night. When the sun comes up, we don our packs and hit challenging trails. On the summit of Half Dome, with the valley floor stretching out beneath us, we revel in our achievement and the beautiful trails our journey has opened up to us.

Experience breathtaking views on a 4-day backpacking trip along the iconic High Divide and Seven Lakes Basin Loop. A much-loved route within the remote and unspoiled Olympic National Park, this trip boasts old-growth forests, high alpine lakes and endless views. Backpacking enthusiasts will find themselves feeling weary but alive on this route, and those up for the challenge will not be disappointed. Passing fields of wildflowers and spotting the occasional elk, deer or marmot, it’s easy to understand what makes this area one of the most treasured destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Beginning in Sol Duc Valley, hike from towering old-growth forests to high alpine meadows. Take a moment to appreciate Sol Duc Falls feeding into a river teeming with salmon year-round. The route continues to gain elevation as it climbs to the trail’s namesake, The High Divide. Take in unparalleled panoramic mountain views from the ridge and enjoy adventuring through trails alongside new friends. Our expert guides lead the way, sharing their expansive knowledge of the park’s natural history and ensuring the adventure exceeds expectations.

There is much to do in the 800,000 acres that make up Joshua Tree National Park; our 4-day adventure takes us through the best of the deeper backcountry spots. Nestled between the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts in Southern California lies this surreal and iconic national park. Stark desert landscapes contrast rugged rock formations, and twisted trees spring from the earth, creating an exciting and challenging landscape to explore. Joshua Tree has long enticed rock climbers and rock stars alike—its world-class climbing and otherworldly geography put it at the top of any adventurers list. Our trip is designed to take us into the backcountry to experience more of the park. We backpack, hike and scramble to little-known and seldom seen destinations with the help of our experienced guides. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, wildflowers and famous rock formations. Hike to Willow Hole to explore seasonal water pools that supply critical water to the national park’s wildlife. Experience days filled with discovery, evenings alive with impossible sunsets and nights spent under a brilliantly starry sky.

Coastal Carolina's Barrier Islands provide some of the most spectacular wilderness ecosystems in the country, teeming with diverse wildlife and untouched shorelines. Paddle these coastlines while playful Atlantic bottlenose dolphins dip in and out of view. As the warm afternoon sunshine rises, take a moment to observe the tremendous amount of natural wildlife that surrounds us. Capers Island Heritage Preserve serves as our oceanfront basecamp. Kayak alongside dolphins while learning about the area’s ecosystem from our naturalist guides. Paddle to Bulls Island’s remote wilderness area, where we explore the vast stretches of beach, inland hiking trails and ponds. Excellent birding and alligator spotting guaranteed. As we paddle around the islands, our guides will be helping us to explore the geology of a barrier island. Take time to investigate the intimate relationship between island, estuary and ocean. This remote coastline getaway provides a unique opportunity to enjoy unparalleled access to Earth’s most wondrous creatures.

Enjoy soaring peaks and epic views on this 4-day backpacking adventure. For those, like John Muir, who believe time spent in nature is the pathway to a new way of life, majestic Yosemite National Park is the perfect destination. Breathe deeply amidst the Jeffrey pines, wiggle toes in crisp mountain streams and take in the colors of a Sierra sunrise as we backpack through this beautiful area. Our route along Yosemite Creek takes advantage of running snowmelt, which feeds into crystal clear mountain creeks. Take a refreshing dip to wash away the miles-long journey. Trade our heavy packs for daypacks on a hike to the top of Eagle Peak, considered by John Muir to be the most comprehensive of all Yosemite views from the north rim of the valley. Along the journey, our expert guides will help hone our backpacking skills while teaching us the essentials of packing light and the history of all that surrounds us. Looking for more ways to get away from the crowds and explore Yosemite’s backcountry? See another side of the park with our Hetch Hetchy backpacking trip or explore Tuolumne Meadows and beyond on our High Country backpacking adventure.

Spend four days backpacking amongst the majestic Rocky Mountains. A backpacking trip through the Rocky Mountains is the perfect way to relax and recharge the soul. Our journey takes us from cascading creeks to towering peaks, instilling us with a sense of amazement and rejuvenation. As each step carries us deeper into the wilderness, we take time to drink in our surroundings and discover the natural wonders of the Rockies. Our backcountry adventure begins on Rocky Mountain National Park's quiet western border outside Grand Lake, CO. Follow the well-designed and maintained Continental Divide Trail, passing idyllic flower and wildlife studded meadows, rushing creeks teeming with trout, tumbling waterfalls, and clear alpine lakes—all while surrounded by a sea of craggy summits reaching heights of over 14,000 feet. We make camp seven miles from civilization beneath snow-capped mountains. Along the journey, our guide's comprehensive knowledge of the Park's natural and human history, trails, and little-known secrets round out the perfect weekend wilderness adventure.

Spend four days backpacking through spectacular scenery in Yosemite’s high country. Yosemite National Park, set amongst California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, is one of America’s most beautiful gems. Hiking the High Sierra is an experience unlike any other, and the views that await us are nothing short of amazing. With each bend in the trail, enjoy yet another quintessential high country vantage point. While our routes vary according to season, permits and trail conditions, our exceptional guides will lead us on a journey that is thrilling and memorable for both avid backpackers and those just starting out. Learn how to set up camp with minimal environmental impact, brush up on the basics of packing light, and hone your backpacking skills. We each carry 30-35 pounds of individual and group gear while walking between 2-9 miles daily. This trip is an unforgettable opportunity to relish jaw-dropping views of towering alpine peaks and spectacular granite domes and revel in the extraordinary beauty of Yosemite. Looking for more ways to get away from the crowds and explore Yosemite’s backcountry? See another side of the park with our Hetch Hetchy backpacking trip or set yourself up for some stunning views on our Yosemite Classic backpacking adventure.

Spend four days exploring the spectacular, uncrowded vistas of Yosemite’s high country. Perfect for women who want to try backpacking and experience the real Yosemite without having to deal with trip planning logistics, this long weekend takes you far away from the tourists who crowd the valley. Led by experienced women, we head into the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, where every bend of the trail reveals another jaw-dropping vista. Our exact route will vary based on the season, conditions and permit availability, but rest assured, our guides are Yosemite maestros who will orchestrate an adventure you will always remember. Hiking up to nine miles a day, we travel through a postcard-perfect landscape of granite domes, waterfalls, snowcapped peaks and meadows graced with wildflowers. We swim in pristine alpine lakes. We feast on some of the best food you’ve ever had in the backcountry, courtesy of our guides, who also share daily mini-lessons on wilderness travel and women’s gear. At night, we hang out around the campfire, drinking cocoa and swapping stories, under the spell of the star-filled sky.

Spend four days backpacking amongst stunning views and true tranquility in the Rocky Mountains. Follow in the footsteps of ancient Native Americans on a challenging route that begins on the shores of Grand Lake and takes us all the way into a glacially carved valley dotted with many more crystal blue lakes. Along the way, we move past waterfalls, through meadows, along rushing creeks and over giant granite 'steps'. We keep our eyes peeled for moose, elk and fox, letting the soothing songbirds be the soundtrack to our journey. We begin from our base camp, nestled near a clear wilderness stream filled with trout. It is only a short stroll up the trail to the first of five alpine lakes we explore. From there, weather permitting, we follow a primitive trail slope to the Continental Divide and the Boulder-Grand Pass, a route used for centuries to pass from the Great Plains into the cool mountains. Our guides lead the way, giving us backpacking tips and tricks to hone our skills. Each evening after dark, we enjoy the abundant, star-filled skies, reveling in the day’s adventure with new friends. See our Rocky Mountains Backpacking – North Inlet trip for another great option in Rocky Mountain National Park.

The Great Smoky Mountains rise up from the surrounding scenery, offering up a taste of the Appalachian trail on this 4-day backpacking trip. The famed Appalachian Trail provides a rejuvenating path for adventurers each year. We hike only a short section of this classic route, but the journey is challenging for experienced backpackers and fit beginners alike. Along the way, expert guides share their deep knowledge, backpacking techniques and naturalist expertise. The Appalachian Trail provides us with a great opportunity to experience life as a thru-hiker. Each morning, awaken to the symphony of the forest, a wonderful benefit to life on the trail. We'll trek past expansive mountain views, traverseing narrow ridgelines and walking amongst some of the East Coast's most ancient trees.​ Our trip culminates with gratitude, spending the last few hours among new friends. Those who choose this adventure know why it is among America's most iconic national parks and a choice journey among backpackers the world over.

Experience the brilliance of Hetch Hetchy Valley on this 4-day backpacking adventure. Etched by glacial erosion millions of years ago, Hetch Hetchy Valley is one of Yosemite’s premier wilderness areas. It rivals the beauty of Yosemite Valley's waterfalls and domes, but is far more remote. For those who love hiking among wildflowers and waterfalls, traveling on foot through a landscape away from the crowds is the perfect backpacking experience. We explore quiet backcountry trails near Rancheria Falls and stop for photos near Tueeulala and Wapama waterfalls. In Tiltill Valley, we keep our eyes peeled for wildlife as we pass through a variety of climate zones. Along the way, enjoy refreshing evening swims, excellent camping accommodations and delicious meals beneath the brilliant Sierra stars. Our guides share the rich natural and human history of Yosemite, while teaching us basic skills like map and compass use, backcountry cooking and minimal impact camping. This adventure is the perfect getaway for the experienced and beginner backpacker alike. Looking for more ways to get away from the crowds and explore Yosemite’s backcountry? Explore Tuolumne Meadows and beyond on our High Country backpacking adventure or set yourself up for some stunning views on our Yosemite Classic backpacking adventure.

Be challenged and renewed by the Great Smoky Mountains on this four-day Appalachian Trail backpacking trip. Perfect for the backpacking adventurer who wants to try the Appalachian Trail, hone multi-day backpacking skills or just disconnect from the day to day, this trip gives you a taste of being a thru-hiker. We wake each morning to the symphony of the forest. Fueled by hot coffee and a hearty breakfast, we backpack to primitive shelters, camp in lush meadows, traversing narrow ridgelines, threading old-growth forests, and pausing to appreciate the grandeur of Great Smoky Mountains vistas. Along the trail, our passionate expert guides share the Smokies’ history, lore and field-tested backpacking tips. Evenings bring friendly camaraderie around the campfire. The simplicity of trail life soothes stress and helps us be mindful in the here-and-now. Our journey culminates with gratitude for new friends and wild places. Mind clear, spirits renewed, we depart ready to take on life’s next adventure.

A breathtaking women-only backpacking adventure off the beaten path. A trip below the rim of the Grand Canyon opens the door to a landscape of magic and wonder. In it, you’ll join like-minded women who appreciate big challenges with even bigger rewards. For four spectacular days, you’ll build backcountry skills, forge new friendships and trek through one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Indigenous flora and fauna surround cool swimming holes and hidden oases to create an environment ripe for learning and adventure. And with challenging terrain like this, come seasoned backcountry guides who know the land and its secrets. From the basics of pack fitting to more advanced survival skills and techniques, their expertise will help you build a solid foundation to journey through this unmatched bucket-list worthy experience.

Step into a realm of raw beauty on this four-day alpine challenge that will inspire and transform you. Perfect for anyone who wants to learn mountaineering fundamentals or energize their life and fitness routine with an epic goal, this trip is a classic climb on a peak that many people hold sacred. After a quick orientation, we head to our first camp on the vaulting, snow-streaked slopes of Mount Shasta. Our enthusiastic expert guides lead us through Snow School, teaching us how to move safely across glaciers and rocky terrain. On day two, we climb to our second camp within a high alpine cirque called Hidden Valley. The cold, pure air focuses our minds for our day three summit attempt. We depart at 2am—an “alpine start”—and climb heavenward beneath a canopy of stars. As we ascend and descend the west face, testing body and mind, we encounter moments of wonder. The rising sun casting Shasta’s shadow on the horizon. Gazing out over the Cascade Range with a deep sense of accomplishment. Glissading gleefully down the mountain’s face. Summit or not, this trip will stay with you forever.

A challenging 4-day backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon’s South Rim brings extraordinary views and exceptional feelings of personal accomplishment. The Grand Canyon—with its rugged trails and unforgettable scenery—is truly one of America's greatest natural wonders. Avid backpackers around the world seek out its mystic depths in search of a true personal challenge. This strenuous trip is designed for experienced and fit backpackers. We hike on steep, rocky trails with dramatic elevation gains and losses. Our reward is the time spent below the rim—an experience unlike any other, and a milestone accomplishment for avid backpackers. Along our way from the South rim to the Colorado River at the Canyon's floor, we see astounding rock formations, springs and waterfalls, and fossils and relics revealing the immense history of the region. During rest stops, we take in awe-inspiring views and cool off in the canyon’s waters. Camp beneath starry skies, enjoying delicious meals and good stories with new friends. An early start means cooler temperatures we make our ascent to the canyon rim. Enjoy dramatic views of the wide chasm as we revel in our accomplishments. Also check out our North Rim backpacking itinerary for more options to explore this national treasure.

Four days spent on a challenging backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon gives us time to absorb the sheer magnitude of this vast expanse. Far below the rim, beyond the tourist crowds, our small-group journey from the North Rim to the Colorado River begins. Our first day takes us by the dramatic contours of the canyon wall to our amazing campsite overlooking the inner canyon. Venture past billions of years of geological history. Move beyond ancient fossils and flowing waterfalls and over steep and rocky trails. Experienced backpackers will revel in the physical demands of this journey, returning to camp each night exhausted but exhilarated. On day two, take an opportunity to cool off and explore the magical Thunder River area, one of the most remote and pristine parts of the region. An early call time on day three sets us on the trail for the hike to Deer Creek, considered by many to be the most beautiful spot in the canyon. An experience unlike any other, this journey is a rewarding milestone accomplishment for avid backpackers. Looking for alternate dates or itineraries? Check out our South Rim itinerary for another fantastic Grand Canyon backpacking experience.