Description
High in the Sierra Nevada the alpine meadows are encircled by a crown of glaciated granitic domes, peaks and spires. Threading through the high passes, circling topaz lakes, and paralleling the cascading rivers are a network of trails that weave seamlessly into the landscape. This expansive landscape has inspired countless poets, artists, and conservationists and while these mountains call out to the crowds, the emptiness of this landscape lies off the beaten path. This is the playground of the runners.
Course Overview
Wednesday, Day 1: Arrive at Campground
We meet runners at 5pm at Yosemite. This is a great place to purchase or rent any last-minute gear. We spend the first night at Tioga Lake Campground. Aspire serves an evening meal and we go over routes, risk management, and gear in preparation for the run.
Thursday, Day 2: Run Grand Canyon to the Tuolumne River: 28 Miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +5,116’/-5,912’
We make our start with an early 6 am breakfast. Runners generally complete this day in 7-10 hours. You can decide to opt for a short distance and run the upper Grand canyon for a 13 mile run, elevation Gain: +1,881 Elevation Loss: -1,500 Travel Time 3-4 Hours. Big mountain and valley views await. As will all your gear and plenty of hot food, showers, and beer at basecamp Campground.
Friday, Day 3: 10 Lakes Basin: 21 Miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +5,429’/ -4,123’
Lakes, lakes and more lakes; scenes of wildlife, wildflowers, the high sierras, and a refreshing swim awaits after a long run. You can also opt for May Lake Loop for an 11 mile run, Elevation Gain/Loss +1,711’/ -1,711. Both finishing at western edge of Tenaya Lake where refreshments wait you before shuttling back basecamp.
Saturday, Day 4: Run Cathedral Pass and Clouds Rest, 23 Miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +4,800' / -5,793’
Somehow it’s possible for each day of this trip to get better. We will have 15 and 12 mile options; shorter miles but still very spectacular views. Once in basecamp, we have dinner and drinks.
Sunday, Day 5: Run Vogelsang, 26 Miles, Elevation Gain/Loss +4,200 / -4,200’
Another day with out-of-this-world views of gorgeous meadows and glorious alpine lakes. You can also choose to run the Young Lakes Variation with 14 miles of running and Elevation Gain/Loss of 2,451’. Followed by a well deserved Aspire dinner.
Monday, Day 6: Final Departure
We celebrate, we congratulate, and eventually say our goodbyes.
Accommodations
Our basecamp will be at a drive-in campground. Aspire will provide lively camp amenities for a remote but comfortable “glamp” style experience. Runners will need to provide or rent a personal tent, sleeping bag, pad, etc.
Aspire Adventure Running
Aspire organizes single and multi-day running adventures in backcountry and wilderness terrain. We pair logistical and emergency support with delicious meals for a unique and memorable running experience. More info about our project is available at: www.AspireAdventureRunning.com
Event's current local time: 5:20 AM PT
