Group backpacking trips in California
Each season, we run a limited number of open-enrollment guided backpacking trips in Yosemite, Emigrant Wilderness, Point Reyes, and the Lost Coast. You join a small group of other hikers at a similar experience level and fitness, and we spend a few days living simply outside together.
If you’re looking for a private or custom trip for your own group, head to the Private Trips page instead. If you want to understand how Wilder Walks trips work in detail, start with What to Expect.
Find the right trip level
All Wilder Walks trips share the same backbone: small groups, ultralight gear included, and a focus on learning to backpack in a way that feels sustainable and present. The main difference between trips is how far you go, how complex the terrain is, and how committed the route feels.
Learn more about our Trip Levels & Difficulty >
Level 1 Essentials
Beginner-friendly trips that focus on core skills and comfort. Real hiking days on good trails, with time to learn, ask questions, and settle into living outside.
Good fit if you’re newer to backpacking, returning after a break, or want a relaxed, skills-focused trip that still feels like an adventure.
Level 2 Explorations
Longer trips with more distance, more climbing, and sometimes off-trail travel. You should already like to hike and be ready for real effort.
Good fit if you have solid fitness and at least some backpacking experience and you want to deepen your skills in wilder terrain.
Level 3 Immersions
Small-team, high-route style trips with real remoteness, mostly off-trail travel, and a heavy emphasis on navigation, route design, and decision-making.
Good fit if you’re a very fit, experienced backpacker who wants a full week of coaching and mentorship in big terrain.
How to use this page
Below you’ll find all current open-enrollment group trips.
If you’re not sure which trip fits you best, start with Trip Levels & Difficulty or contact me and I’ll give you a straight recommendation. Scroll down to:
Filter by Level (Essentials, Explorations, Immersions) using the category filters.
Filter by destination using tags such as Yosemite National Park, Point Reyes National Seashore, Emigrant Wilderness, or Lost Coast.
Click into each trip to see the full itinerary and to reserve your spot.
Looking for another date? Or a custom trip?
You can book any of our trips as a private adventure with you and your backpacking crew. Or we can design completely custom guided adventures anywhere we operate.