Nearly 95% of Yosemite National Park is designated wilderness, and more than 750 miles of trails traverse this undeveloped region. To plan a Yosemite backpacking trip you should start with a good topographical map. If it’s your first time you will want to hike in one of the popular backcountry areas like Ten Lakes (White Wolf) or Cathedral Rocks (Tuolumne Meadows).
Once you’ve selected your route, the next obstacle is getting a permit. Wilderness permits are required for all overnight trips. Day-hikers do not require one. You can apply for a permit up to 24 weeks in advance and they cost $5 per confirmed reservation plus $5 per person. Of each trailhead’s daily quota, 60% can be reserved ahead of time while the remaining 40% is available first-come, first-served no earlier than 11am the day before your hike begins. Permits can be obtained at Yosemite Valley Wilderness Center, Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center, Big Oak Flat Information Station, Wawona Visitor Center at Hill’s Studio, Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station, and Badger Pass Ranger Station. From November through April permits are available on a self-registration basis (when the permit stations are closed). Information regarding wilderness permits and the reservation process can be found at: