Is Tuolumne Meadows worth the drive?

Tuolumne Meadows is perhaps Yosemite Valley’s best-kept secret, but only because it’s overshadowed in size and popularity by the nearby famous valley. However, while you’re in the Yosemite area, Tuolumne Meadows is definitely a trip that’s worth taking along a scenic highway to the 8,575-foot-high, sub-alpine meadow.

Where can I hike in Tuolumne Meadows?

Day Hikes in Tuolumne Meadows

• Tuolumne Meadows: Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge (easy)
• Lyell Canyon via the John Muir Trail (easy)
• Elizabeth Lake (moderate)
• Gaylor Lakes (moderate)
• Cathedral Lakes (moderate)
• Mono Pass (moderate)
• Glen Aulin (moderate)
• Dog Lake and Lembert Dome (moderate)

What is the best hike in Yosemite National Park?

10 Top-Rated Hikes in Yosemite National Park

• Yosemite Falls Trail. Yosemite Falls Trail | Photo Copyright: Lana Law.
• Half Dome Hike. Cables on Half Dome.
• Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall.
• Mirror Lake Trail.
• Sentinel Dome Trail.
• Cathedral Lakes.
• May Lake Trail and Mount Hoffmann.
• Bridalveil Fall Hike.

What is the easiest trail in Yosemite?

3 Easy Hikes in Yosemite National Park

• Mariposa Grove – Grizzly Giant Loop Hike. 2 miles.
• Yosemite Valley – Yosemite Loop Trail. 7.2 to 11.5 miles.
• Tuolumne Meadows – Lyell Canyon via the John Muir Trail. 3 miles roundtrip to Rafferty Creek Bridge.

Is Tuolumne Meadows part of Yosemite?

Tuolumne Meadows (/tuˈɒləmi/) is a gentle, dome-studded, sub-alpine meadow area along the Tuolumne River in the eastern section of Yosemite National Park in the United States. Its approximate location is 37°52.5′N 119°21′W. Its approximate elevation is 8,619 feet (2,627 m).

Can you drive the 120 through Yosemite?

The Tioga Road (Highway 120 through the park, from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass) is usually closed from November through late May or early June. (View a list of opening and closing dates.) When the Tioga Road is closed, alternate routes are available to get to various destinations.

What is the elevation of Tuolumne Meadows?

8,600 feet
One of the largest high-elevation meadows in the Sierra Nevada, Tuolumne Meadows at 8,600 feet has been also among the most visible to past pioneers, and present visitors and scientists.

Which two trails in Yosemite are most popular?

Most people start the Panorama Trail hike going one way from Glacier Point down to Yosemite Valley. The Panorama Trail starts and ends at two very popular trails in Yosemites, Glacier Point and the Mist Trail.

Can you hike Half Dome when the cables are down?

To avoid the crowds, enjoy great weather, and have an experience that is different from most, it is possible to climb Half Dome via the cables route even after the cables have been “taken down,” which typically happens around Columbus Day.

Can you walk to base of El Capitan?

El Capitan Loop is a 21.5 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Yosemite Valley, California that features a waterfall and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. The trail is primarily used for hiking and backpacking and is best used from May until October.

Can you swim in Tuolumne Meadows?

Tuolumne Meadows The Tuolumne River is an excellent choice for high-country swimming, with many easy-to-reach sandy-bottomed pools and slightly warmer temperatures than other High Sierra rivers. If you don’t mind hiking a bit further, the Lyell Fork also has some great (albeit shallow) swimming areas.

What river flows through Tuolumne Meadows?

Water arises from snowmelt and hill-slope aquifers, and flows through the Tuolumne River, Budd Creek, Delaney Creek, and Unicorn Creek.

What are the best hikes in Tuolumne Meadows?

The 360-degree views from the top can’t be beaten, making this one of the best hikes in Tuolumne Meadows. Look out for Tuolumne Peak, Cathedral Peak, Unicorn Peak, as well as Donahue and Mono Passes.

When is the best time to climb Tuolumne National Park?

The usual Tuolumne “season” for climbing runs from May through mid-Fall or so. Some adjacent areas often grouped together with Tuolumne in guidebooks are included in the High Sierra and Lee Vining Canyon / Tioga Road areas on Mountain Project.

How high is the elevation gain on the Tuolumne trail?

This trail experiences an elevation gain of 1,850 feet. McCabe Lakes (29.6 miles): This route begins at Tuolumne Meadows, follows the Pacific Crest Trail, goes down to Glen Aulin and then passes through forests and meadows as it makes its way to the distant McCabe Lakes. This trail features a 1,950-foot elevation gain.

Is Tuolumne Meadows too crowded?

Crowds: The immense size of this area means that, even during peak season, it’ll never feel too crowded. Difficulty: Although Tuolumne Meadows serves as a starting point for many strenuous hikes, the meadows themselves are rather flat and easy to walk.