Trinity Alps Wilderness Backpacking
Sacramento, CA
4.7 (3 reviews)Trip Highlights
- High Alpine Lakes
- Granite Peaks
- Mountain Solitude
- Amazing Campsites
- Diverse Wildlife
- Iconic Views
Description
Explore California’s second largest wilderness area complete with chiseled, granite peaks and high alpine lakes on this 5 day backpacking trip through the breathtaking Trinity Alps. This trek loops past seven different pristine mountain lakes, through wildflower laden meadows, along rushing mountain creeks, and past stunning viewpoints. We will keep our eyes peeled for wildlife as we hike, which can include Black Bears, Columbian Blacktail Deer, Ringtail Cats, Mountain Lions, Bobcats, River Otters and more.
This trip offers a wonderful opportunity to escape the crowds and explore a mysterious wilderness area, little known to the general public. Give us a call at 800-715-HIKE (4453) 7 days a week to request more information or book your spot(s) today!
$2055 Per Person
DIFFICULTY LEVEL 4
Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult
This trip is rated as a level 4 due to the length of the hikes, the elevation gains and losses, and the weight of the backpacks. Expect mileages of up to 8.5 miles, max daily elevation gains of nearly 3,000 feet, and backpack weight of 35-45 pounds.
Hiking Distances:
5-8.5 miles
Backpack Weight:
35-45 pounds
Terrain:
Moderately Rugged
Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:
Up to 3000 feet
Heights Exposure:
Moderate
PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP
- Hiking uphill or downhill with a 35-45 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
- Maintaining balance and footing on moderately rugged hiking trails with loose rocks, roots, mud and other obstacles
SOLITUDE LEVEL 4
1 least solitude, 5 most solitude
We rate this Trinity Alps backpacking trip a solitude 4. You can expect to see a couple other groups of hikers per day.
PRIVATE TRIPS
Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group!
Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions.
Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. However, if group members drop from the tour those spots will automatically become available on our website for instant booking. By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations.
PRIVATE RATES FOR THIS TRIP
- 2 People: Rate x 2.5
- 3 People: Rate x 1.75
- 4 People: Rate x 1.25
- 5+ People: Rate x 1.15
*all rates are per person
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ITINERARY
Day 1
- Shuttle time 4 hours
- Hiking Distance: 4.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2030 feet
- Elevation Loss: 130 feet
Today we will depart Sacramento and head for the focus of this trip: the amazing Trinity Alps Wilderness. Your Guide will provide transportation and breakfast as we head north toward our trailhead. Today’s hike ascends quickly along a rushing mountain stream. As we hike we’ll take time to appreciate the towering pine forests that surround us and the peaceful murmur of the crystal clear mountain water cascading down from the high country. We will continue to climb and take a turn to the west along another roaring creek with our sights set on a beautiful mountain lake, our camp for the evening. The lake’s emerald waters are set below a massive alpine peak, which frames our view as your guide prepares our first backcountry dinner.
Day 2
- Hiking Distance: 6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2930 feet
- Elevation Loss: 1600 feet
We’ll start today with a delicious breakfast, then break down camp and hit the trail. Today’s hike zig-zags along the eastern portion of a popular Trinity Alps loop, which is loved for its phenomenal views. We descend into a different drainage and pass a gorgeous lake where we will stop for a well deserved lunch break. Continuing on, we’ll make our way to the day’s destination: another alpine lake nestled between towering alpine peaks.
Day 3
- Hiking Distance: 6.7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1660 feet
- Elevation Loss: 2260 feet
Our route today is mostly downhill as we finish the western side of the popular backpacking loop, passing another breathtaking lake and more perfect mountain streams. We’ll soak up views of the high country as we hike. We will make our way north toward tonight’s camp with fantastic views of Seven Up Peak (8,121′) to the east and Sawtooth Peak (8886′) to the west. Once at camp, we’ll get settled in for the evening and enjoy a hearty dinner prepared by your guide as we watch the sun set over the mountain peaks.
Day 4
- Hiking Distance: 7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2811 feet
- Elevation Loss: 2840 feet
Today is a very special day. We will head into yet another mountain drainage with stunning views of jagged, granite peaks. We will circumvent a prominent peak and trek past a deliciously pristine alpine lake. We’ll enjoy a break at an amazing viewpoint to take in the views and refuel with a lunch prepared by your guide. Onward, as we continue south, we’ll climb up a short set of switchbacks to a beautiful lake, just below a massive peak and our camp for the evening. We will celebrate our last evening in the backcountry with another wonderful, hot dinner prepared by your guide. As we drift off to sleep tonight to the sounds of the wind in the trees, and the diffused glow of the stars shimmering off the lake, it’s almost impossible to not relish the majesty of this incredibly special place.
Day 5
- Hiking Distance: 8.4 miles
- Elevation Gain: 159 feet
- Elevation Loss: 2925 feet
- Shuttle Time: 4 hours
Today we will pack up camp, have breakfast and hit the trail back toward our starting point. We have a bit longer day mileage wise, but will make up for it by going downhill most of the way. Continuing on the descent, we will get back into the drainage from day 1 and ultimately back to our trailhead, where our vehicle awaits. Our drive back to Sacramento is an opportunity to contemplate the sights we’ve seen over the last 5 days, and the lessons we’ve learned. Time in the wilderness is always transformative! Once in Sacramento, we’ll say our fond farewells and start dreaming about our next adventure.
Please Note: We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however it can change occasionally based on temporary access restrictions, weather, lodging/campground availability, guest ability/injury, natural events like fires and flooding, and other potential causes. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.
TRIP DATES & BOOKING
AVAILABLE TO BOOK
This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!
GOING FAST
This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.
REQUEST A RESERVATION
This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.
Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.
800-715-HIKE (4453)Trip Details
What's Included
- Top-of-the-line tent, backcountry sleeping pad and multi-day backpack
- High quality, synthetic sleeping bag (professionally laundered after every use) – or bring your own.
- Use of trekking poles
- All meals are included from breakfast the first day through lunch on the last day
- Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios.
- Comprehensive, roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Sacramento and back
- All necessary entrance fees and permits
- Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device (InReach Explorer or satellite phone)
What's Not Included
- Clothes, raingear, and footwear (see recommendations)
- Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
- Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
- Guide gratuity (industry recommendation is 10-20% of trip cost)
Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about what to pack.
Meals: What to Expect
All of our hiking and backpacking tours include a diversity of tasty meals packed full of critical carbohydrates, proteins and fats. We carry foods that travel well in the backcountry – rice, pastas, lentils, beans, couscous, packaged meats, nuts, breads, oatmeal, granola, and more.
For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables (fresh and dried). In addition, we provide you with with an assortment of trail mix, snacks, and dried fruits to eat at your own discretion.
We regularly accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and will make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee.
Gear We Provide
We provide all group gear which includes the following:
- Deuter or Osprey backpacks
- Sierra Designs, Kelty or Big Agnes tents
- Sierra Designs, Big Agnes and Mountain Hardware synthetic-fill sleeping bags (or bring your own)
- Thermarest or Big Agnes sleeping pads
- Leki trekking poles
- Cooking stoves and cookware
- Company-issued first-aid kit
- Emergency communication device(s)
Guest Packing List
When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip (click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.
Additionally, some guests choose to bring their own sleeping bag. We supply high quality, synthetic fill bags that are professionally laundered after every trip. Synthetic fill is non-allergenic, insulates when damp and stands up well to repeated washings, but is heavier and bulkier than down. If you’re able to bring your own down sleeping bag, there are multiple benefits. If not, we’ve got you covered!
Trip Logistics
How Do I Register?
Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can click here to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.
Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!
Where Do We Meet?
This trip originates in Sacramento, California with an orientation meeting the evening before the trip begins at the Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento-Airport-Natomas. We recommend staying at this hotel, as we will depart directly from here on the morning of Day 1 and return to this hotel on Day 5. Your guide will be in contact approximately 10 days before the trip start date to coordinate the pre-trip orientation.
Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.
Travel to Sacramento
Sacramento International Airport is one of the most easily accessed destinations in the country. Many major cities in the United States and internationally offer direct flights into Sacramento. We recommend staying in a hotel near the airport.
Start/End Times
Your guide will inform you of the first day’s departure time at the orientation meeting. Generally, you can expect it to be between 6 and 8 am, although the exact time will depend on current weather and road conditions. We will drop you off at this hotel on the final day normally before 7 PM (this time is not guaranteed, as a variety of circumstances can influence our exact return time).
Safety Precautions
Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.
If you have any further questions about safety, please contact us at 1-800-715-HIKE (4453) for more information.
Essential Eligibility Criteria
Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”) have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.
Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the EEC and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please contact us prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.
The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.
Guide Working Parameters
Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time…etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms uninterrupted for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests to respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ off time and sleep time unless there is a true emergency.
Age Restrictions
Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:
- 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
- 10 and older to join scheduled tours (approval on a case by case basis)
Accommodations
Backcountry Sleeping
TENT CAMPING
Sleeping on backpacking trips is in premier 1-person, 2-person or 4-person backcountry tents. Solo travelers, and anyone else who requests it, are issued single tents. Top-of-the-line self-inflating sleeping pads and synthetic-fill sleeping bags (professionally laundered after every trip) are also provided.
Backcountry Cuisine
FRESH & DELICIOUS
Meals from breakfast Day 1 through lunch the last day are fully included and prepared by your guide. We never use dehydrated backpacking meals, instead serving freshly prepared, delicious backcountry cuisine made with a variety of common and specialty ingredients that travel well in the wilderness.
Amazing Campsites
IN THE ACTION
Campsites vary by destination, trip and even by the individual day of a trip. However, you can expect to camp in beautiful areas that put you right in the action to make the most of your trekking adventure. We carefully design our itineraries with campsites in mind.
Trip Reviews
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Karen W
I would do it all over again in a heartbeat
Awesome hike! Scenery was stunning, rarely saw other hikers, and great food!
Steven C
Extremely Well Prepared
Great experience made possible by thorough preparation prior to the hike.
Paul O
Had a great experience.
Trinity Alps was a beautiful setting, with much variety: mountains and lakes; forests and exposed mountainsides and peaks; deer about the campsites. Our guide, Carm, did a great job adapting the itinerary in advance to fit some route disruptions the Wilderness Area had posted, and on the day of to deal with a bout of very unseasonable weather. Trinity Alps offered exhilarating/challenging elevation gains and distances, great solitude and vistas, terrific guiding (and meals!) Had a great experience.
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