Tuolumne Meadows
7943 Willow St. , Yosemite National Park, Yosemite National Park, CA, 95389
In the eastern area of Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Meadows provides a peaceful alternative to the popular Yosemite Valley region of the park. A large, subalpine meadow surrounded by high granite domes and majestic peaks, Tuolumne Meadows is home to a vast array of wildlife, hiking trails, pristine alpine lakes, and world-class rock climbing.
The basics
Opportunities for outdoor fun are plentiful in Tuolumne Meadows, whether it be trekking through the high alpine scenery, climbing steep granite faces, or just enjoying the scenic views from Olmsted Point. Spend a few days in the wilderness with a guided backpack trip, or sharpen your skills behind the camera with a photography lesson in Tuolumne Meadows. Don’t miss the stand of giant sequoias in the Tuolumne Grove on the trail from Craner Flat.
Things to know before you go
Tuolumne Meadows is a must-see for adventure travelers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center offers park information, hiking maps, and exhibits on the area’s geology and plant and animal life.
There's a lovely picnic spot at Tenaya Lake, and camping is available at the Tuolumne Meadows Campground.
The meadows are not accessible to wheelchairs, but scenic views of the area can be enjoyed from the car along Tioga Road.
How to get there
Tuolumne Meadows is most easily reached by car via Highway 120 (the Tioga Road) from Groveland, Lee Vining, or Yosemite Valley. The Tioga Road is only open during the summer months and opening dates vary by weather conditions. The park offers bus service between Tuolumne Meadows and Yosemite Valley in the summer, and a shuttle service is available in the Tuolumne Meadows area.
When to get there
The Tioga Road, which provides access to Tuolumne Meadows, is only open from around late May through October/November, depending on snowpack and weather conditions. Tuolumne Meadows can also be accessed via cross-country or backcountry skiing during the winter. Start at the Snow Creek trailhead in Yosemite Valley or Highway 120 east of Lee Vining.
Best hikes in Tuolumne Meadows
The Tuolumne Meadows area is packed with trailheads that can take you deep into Yosemite’s backcountry or simply on a casual jaunt to a scenic viewpoint or alpine lake. The short hike to Soda Springs and the trek to Dog Lake are great family-friendly options. Hike to the top of Lembert Dome for fantastic panoramas of Tuolumne, particularly at sunrise or sunset. For something a bit more challenging, opt for the hike to Cathedral Lakes or Cloud’s Rest.
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