Over seven days, you’ll experience the full spectrum of Sierra Nevada trail running – from Yosemite’s iconic valleys to Mammoth’s volcanic backcountry.
We start amid the towering granite walls of Yosemite Valley, the ancestral homeland of the Ahwahnechee and Southern Sierra Miwok peoples, before ascending to the high country’s alpine terrain.
Each day brings new challenges: glacier-carved canyon trails, exposed granite traverses with endless views, pristine lakeside paths, ancient forest routes beneath towering sequoias, and volcanic formations creating a lunar-like landscape. Our routes mix famous trails with hidden gems, including sections only accessible to those willing to earn them on foot.
But it’s not just about the running – you’ll soak in natural hot springs, learn about the geological forces that shaped these mountains and the Indigenous peoples who have stewarded these lands for millennia, taste local Sierra cuisine, and perhaps spot black bears foraging in meadows or mule deer at dawn.
Trip details and itinerary are subject to change. Final routes and accommodations will be confirmed closer to departure dates.
Today begins at sunrise with coffee, light snacks and a short drive to our start line for the day. A true geological wonder (don’t worry, we’ll tell you all about it!), Smith Rock has long been established as a mecca for rock climbers but also happens to be a spectacular place for a morning run. This one isn’t easy – there is very little flat terrain around here – but the chance to run amongst these surreal rock formations, take in sweeping views of snow-capped volcanoes in the distance and potentially spot otters playing in the river make it worth every bit of effort.
After the run and a well-deserved breakfast we’ll get showered, pack and wave goodbye to the canyons – it’s time to head to the mountains! Along the way we’ll pass through the vibrant adventure town of Bend for lunch before continuing on to Westfir, a tiny town nestled deep in the Willamette National Forest that is home to a cozy family-run riverside B&B that we’ll settle into for the next two nights.
Today begins at sunrise with coffee, light snacks and a short drive to our start line for the day. A true geological wonder (don’t worry, we’ll tell you all about it!), Smith Rock has long been established as a mecca for rock climbers but also happens to be a spectacular place for a morning run. This one isn’t easy – there is very little flat terrain around here – but the chance to run amongst these surreal rock formations, take in sweeping views of snow-capped volcanoes in the distance and potentially spot otters playing in the river make it worth every bit of effort.
After the run and a well-deserved breakfast we’ll get showered, pack and wave goodbye to the canyons – it’s time to head to the mountains! Along the way we’ll pass through the vibrant adventure town of Bend for lunch before continuing on to Westfir, a tiny town nestled deep in the Willamette National Forest that is home to a cozy family-run riverside B&B that we’ll settle into for the next two nights.
Today we will say goodbye to Westfir, but not to the forest – believe it or not, the best is still ahead! You’ll probably want to take it easy today – yesterday was big, and tomorrow can’t be missed! – so we’ll start the day with a riverside shakeout run. After showers and breakfast we will enjoy a relaxed float down the North Fork of the Willamette River with expert guides, giving you a chance to see some areas that are only accessible from the water. Afterwards, we’ll take the scenic route towards the legendary McKenzie River valley!
The winding drive will route through thick forest and narrow canyons, and we’ll take our time. We’ll get glimpses of an area devastated by recent wildfires, and the contrast will make the arrival to our lodging for the night – set amongst towering old-growth forest – that much more impactful. We’ll get settled into our final home-away-from-home, a sprawling house nestled in the forest with spacious suites and plenty of gathering space both indoors and out. The evening will be nice and relaxed with plenty of time for conversation, contemplation and a stellar feast prepared by a private chef.
This is the final full day of the trip, and it’s an unforgettable one! We’ll start with a relaxed morning before taking a short shuttle to the start of our run. This trail is pure magic: it weaves and rolls alongside a wild, rushing river and through lush old-growth forest, passing by thundering waterfalls, big lava flows and turquoise pools. There is no rush today – this is the type of trail you’ll want to spend all day on! When you do eventually finish we’ll have lunch waiting for you, followed by a final evening together back at the house. Kick back, trade stories, enjoy dinner and stretch it out as long as you possibly can!
Chances are that you’ll be ready for a day off by this point, but anyone who wants to sneak in a few quiet morning miles will be able to do so. After a big farewell brunch we’ll pack up and wave goodbye before heading back over the mountains to complete our trip.
We’ll drop you off back at the airport or somewhere in Bend for those who want to extend their adventure even longer!
From the soaring peaks of the Northern Alps to the cultural treasures of the Kamakura coast, let’s take a look at a few of the areas of Yosemite and Mammoth Lakes that are ideal for trail running.
Trail running in Yosemite Valley offers an experience unlike anywhere else on earth. Here, beneath 3,000-foot granite walls and thundering waterfalls, a network of pine-shaded trails provides the perfect introduction to Sierra running.
What makes the Valley so special for runners is the juxtaposition of accessibility and raw wilderness. Within moments of setting out, you’re immersed in landscapes that defined American conservation, yet the valley floor’s gentle terrain makes these routes approachable for runners of all abilities.
The Valley Floor Loop delivers 7-13 miles (depending on chosen sections) of perfectly graded running beneath El Capitan and Half Dome, with minimal elevation change and countless spots to pause and gaze upward at climbers tackling the world’s most famous rock faces.
Notable Trails & Routes:
These valley runs balance accessibility with authentic wilderness immersion, creating perfect morning sessions before the day’s crowds arrive and ideal acclimatization for the high country adventures to come.
When summer warmth opens Yosemite’s high country, runners discover a landscape that perfectly balances challenge and reward. At 8,600 feet, Tuolumne Meadows serves as the gateway to a vast alpine wonderland where pristine lakes, flowering meadows and granite domes create a runner’s paradise far removed from the valley crowds.
The high country offers Yosemite’s most technically rewarding running terrain. Here, perfectly graded single-track trails traverse granite slabs, cross crystal-clear streams and connect a network of emerald lakes, all beneath an endless Sierra sky.
Notable Trails & Routes:
What sets the high country apart is the solitude – even in peak season, just a mile from trailheads you’ll often find yourself alone with the mountains, running paths where each turn reveals another postcard-worthy vista.
When runners think of California’s Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Lakes inevitably tops the list. This volcanic wonderland offers some of the most diverse trail running in the West, where crystal lakes, pumice-covered slopes and soaring peaks create a unique playground for mountain athletes.
Unlike Yosemite’s solid granite, Mammoth’s volcanic history shapes a more varied running experience, with soft pumice trails, technical rocky sections and smooth riverside paths often featuring within a single run.
The Lakes Basin region stands out as Mammoth’s crown jewel, where a spectacular network of interconnected trails links alpine waters nestled beneath 11,000-foot peaks. With Mammoth’s extensive system of gondolas and shuttles, runners can access high-elevation starting points that maximize views while minimizing grueling climbs.
Notable Trails & Routes:
What makes Mammoth truly special is its microclimate – sitting at 7,800 feet on the eastern side of the Sierra, it receives over 300 days of sunshine annually. When coastal cities are shrouded in fog, Mammoth typically basks in perfect running weather, with cool mornings, warm days and dramatically lower humidity than sea-level destinations.
The opportunity to run amongst the world’s largest living things adds a magical dimension to Sierra trail running. In Mariposa Grove and the lesser-visited Tuolumne and Merced Groves, runners find a landscape from another time – where 2,000-year-old giants create cathedral-like spaces filled with dappled light and profound silence.
These grove trails offer a completely different running experience from Yosemite’s exposed granite routes. Here, soft needle-covered paths cushion your footfalls as you navigate a terrain of massive trunks, where a single living thing can be wider than many trail segments.
Notable Trails & Routes:
The grove trails are perfect for recovery days between more challenging mountain routes. Their moderate grades, predictable surfaces and consistent shade create ideal conditions for easy miles, while the majesty of trees that were seedlings when the Roman Empire was at its height provides a humbling perspective that is uniquely Californian
We are putting the finishing touches on our inaugural Run Yosemite & Mammoth trips. To be the first to hear about dates and details, join our priority list below.
The Sierra Nevada mountains offer North America’s most spectacular trail running experience. This Yosemite & Mammoth Lakes running tour takes you through stunning landscapes where ancient forests meet granite monoliths amid breathtaking mountain scenery.
California’s Sierra Nevada, renowned for its perfect combination of accessibility and wilderness, combines the allure of iconic landscapes with world-class trails and cuisine that will make you fall in love with the region. From valley floor routes to challenging alpine paths, this adventure showcases America’s mountain playground through a runner’s perspective.
Your trip includes expert Rogue Expeditions leaders and local guides who know these trails intimately, all ground transportation (including airport transfers from Fresno), 6 nights of carefully selected accommodations, 6 guided runs with full support, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, trail snacks and water during runs, hot springs experiences, all park entrance fees and permits, luggage transfers between accommodations, and Rogue Expeditions merchandise. Simply put: once you arrive, we take care of everything so you can focus on the trails.
Flights to and from Fresno, California are not included. Additionally, alcoholic beverages, travel insurance, personal purchases/souvenirs, guide gratuities, and personal running gear are not covered in the trip cost.
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and emergency evacuation coverage.
This trip accommodates a range of running abilities, but participants should be comfortable running/hiking 5-15 miles per day on varied terrain with elevation gains of 500-3,000 feet. Most days feature 7-10 miles of running with significant climbing. While we’ll hike the steepest sections, you should be comfortable trail running for at least 2-3 hours daily at elevation (7,000-10,000 feet). We offer preparation suggestions and optional 12-week training plans to registered participants.
We’ve carefully selected a mix of boutique mountain lodges and historic park accommodations that showcase the best of Sierra hospitality. In Yosemite Valley, we stay at iconic lodging with views of Half Dome and El Capitan.
In Tuolumne, our mountain lodge offers rustic comfort at elevation. In Mammoth Lakes, we enjoy a contemporary mountain resort with hot tubs and excellent recovery amenities.
All accommodations feature comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and authentic Sierra character. Single supplements are available for those preferring private rooms.
The Sierra Nevada offers incredibly diverse terrain. You’ll experience smooth valley floor paths, technical granite slabs, soft forest trails beneath ancient sequoias, high-alpine single track, and volcanic pumice trails in Mammoth. Some sections involve moderate scrambling over rocky terrain, water crossings, and exposed ridgelines.
Elevations range from approximately 4,000 feet in Yosemite Valley to over 10,000 feet in the high country, with significant daily elevation changes. This diversity is what makes the Sierra special for trail runners—every day brings new challenges and surfaces.
When not on the trails, we’ll enjoy natural hot springs, wildlife viewing opportunities, ranger-led talks about the region’s natural history, sunset photography sessions at iconic viewpoints, and relaxation time at our accommodations. Optional activities include gentle yoga sessions, swimming in alpine lakes, stargazing in some of California’s darkest skies, and visits to local conservation projects.
Evenings typically feature multi-course dinners with local wine pairings and plenty of time for sharing stories from the day’s adventures.
Summer and early fall in the Sierra Nevada (June-September) typically feature warm, sunny days and cool nights—ideal running conditions. Daytime temperatures usually range from 70-85°F (21-29°C) in the valleys and 60-75°F (15-24°C) at higher elevations. Morning temperatures can drop to 40-50°F (4-10°C), especially in the high country, making layered clothing essential. While the Sierra is known for its sunshine (over 300 clear days annually), afternoon thunderstorms are possible in summer, especially at higher elevations. The region’s low humidity and cool mornings create perfect conditions for running.
Sierra Nevada cuisine combines farm-to-table California influences with hearty mountain traditions. Breakfasts feature locally-roasted coffee, fresh fruit, homemade granola, and protein-rich options to fuel your runs.
On-trail snacks include local nuts, dried fruits, energy bars, and homemade treats. Lunch ranges from gourmet picnics at scenic spots to casual meals at historic mountain lodges.
Dinners showcase seasonal ingredients from California’s Central Valley, locally-raised meat, fresh mountain trout, and vegetarian options inspired by the region’s diverse cultures. We accommodate all dietary restrictions and preferences.
We’ve done our best to create a cancellation policy that balances flexibility with our advance costs. For detailed information on cancellations, transfers, and refunds, please review our full Booking Terms & Conditions. We strongly recommend obtaining travel insurance to cover potential cancellations.
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