Explore the hidden gems of Yosemite with expert tips on hiking routes and scenic spots beyond the typical tourist experience.
Contents:
Here’s What a Local Learned about Fantastic Yosemite
By Adam Costa
Over recent years, I have had the privilege of living and working in Yosemite. My experiences range from cooking in the Tuolumne Meadows area to leading hiking tours. I would like to share several hiking routes that may not be widely recognized, aiming to enhance your appreciation for one of the premier National Parks in the United States.
I have included multiple day hikes that can be interconnected for a three to four-day trek. I believe that spending just one night in the higher altitudes of Yosemite allows for proper acclimatization, consequently enabling a more enjoyable overall experience.
The outlined hikes predominantly focus on Tuolumne Meadows, where I resided for over four months. Notably, it is estimated that over 90% of the five million annual visitors to Yosemite remain within the valley; take advantage of this opportunity to explore paths less traveled.
Prior to Hiking Yosemite
Before embarking on your hike, ensure you obtain your wilderness permit. Reservations can be made up to 24 weeks in advance for a processing fee of $5 plus $5 per person. Alternatively, permits can be acquired in-person either the day prior or on the morning of your hike; however, I advise booking early for Tuolumne, as its quotas often fill quickly. More information can be found on the
National Park Service
website.
Additionally, be prepared for varying weather conditions. Yosemite boasts several microclimates, where one can experience snow, sunshine, and thunderstorms all in a single day, especially when trekking over a pass. It is crucial to pack several warm layers, including rain gear, regardless of what the weather forecast indicates.
Tuolumne Meadows to Cathedral Lake
John Muir, a renowned American naturalist, referred to this area as a cathedral to God. After hiking this trail numerous times, I find myself in agreement. The region features three Cathedral Lakes and Cathedral Peak, which stands at 10,911 feet.
This trail begins at Cathedral Pass off Highway 120, making for a round trip of about seven and a half miles. It’s essential to take it easy, as the high elevation can impact many on the trail.
If time allows, consider extending your trek towards Yosemite Valley, taking a detour to include Half Dome.
Cathedral Lake to Yosemite Valley
From Cathedral Pass, proceed past the Sunrise campground heading towards the valley. You’ll discover numerous camping spots along the way (remember to carry your wilderness permit, as rangers actively monitor compliance).
A challenging but rewarding detour leads you to the summit of Half Dome, a must-see for first-time hikers. The initial mile and a half comprises a steady incline, while the subsequent half-mile contains strenuous switchbacks and a daunting climb aided by metal cables. Gloves are supplied at the base, but remember to return them after your ascent. This effort is rewarded with a stunning view of Yosemite Valley.
This trail enables you to experience the valley from above before descending into it. While many opt to drive into the valley for a day hike, I encourage taking this route to fully appreciate the diversity of environments Yosemite has to offer.
Upon arriving in the valley, you can choose to stay overnight, take a shuttle back to Tuolumne (be mindful of varying schedules throughout the year), or hitchhike—an option that is known to be quite safe in the park.
Day Hikes in Tuolumne Meadows
For those less inclined towards long hikes but desiring scenic spots, I highly recommend Olmstead Point (named after Frederick Law Olmstead, the creator of Central Park in New York City) and the serene sandy shores of Tenaya Lake.
Both locations offer free parking and provide an excellent opportunity to spend a leisurely afternoon. Start at Olmstead Point, then enjoy a delightful lunch along the beach. Located just seven miles down the road, Tuolumne Grill offers a range of meals, including cheeseburgers and a delicious veggie chili.
Nearby the Grill are several beautiful hiking options. One is a round trip of four miles to Lembert Dome, which provides remarkable views of Tenaya Lake. Alternatively, you may park at the Tuolumne Lodge parking area and hike to the twin bridges.
This trail leads towards Vogelsang High Sierra Camp or it allows for a peaceful walk alongside the Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River—a personal favorite of mine, even beyond Yosemite. Following the river upstream grants you access to scenic views, where you might even spot a yellow-bellied marmot, a large member of the squirrel family often found around the granite slabs lining the river.
Just Outside Yosemite
As you venture east on Highway 120, you will exit the park and travel along the picturesque Tioga Pass towards Mono Lake. This unique alkaline lake attracts photography enthusiasts, as it does not support fish life due to its high pH level of 10 and high salt content. Nevertheless, it is remarkable for its tiny Mono Lake brine shrimp.
The main attraction of Mono Lake lies in the striking calcareous formations known as “tufa,” which cast enchanting shadows across the water, making for sensational sunrises and sunsets.
At the end of Route 120, overlooking Mono Lake, you will find a Mobil Station unlike any other, known for serving exceptional food, including shrimp tacos, BBQ chicken, and pesto pizza.
It may seem surprising that a gas station could house such a restaurant, but countless first-time visitors are frequently astonished by the quality of the dishes that emerge from its kitchen.
Heading south on Highway 395 will lead you to the
Bristlecone Pine Forest
, home to some of the most ancient living trees on the planet. The Methuselah Tree, the oldest in the forest, is over 5,000 years old.
Many of its neighboring trees are between three and four thousand years old. Note that to preserve its anonymity, the Methuselah Tree is not labeled, leaving visitors uncertain of their encounter. Nevertheless, wandering through this ancient forest is an experience not to be missed.
Two Days Or Two Lifetimes: You’ll Never See It All
While many individuals may only spend a few days in Yosemite, I can attest from my own experiences there that even extended stays allow for only a glimpse of this magnificent park’s offerings. My guidance is to explore at a leisurely pace and soak in as much of Yosemite as possible. Consider trying some of the hikes mentioned to escape the crowds and witness the splendor that Yosemite has to offer.
Adam Costa is the guiding creative force behind
travel-smarts.com
, a website dedicated to informing travelers how to travel the world without breaking the bank
.
