Tuolumne Meadows

Many Yosemite visitors spend all their time in the Valley and never venture to Tuolumne Meadows (pronounced two-ol-um-knee in case you were wondering). However, it's a trip that's worth taking along a scenic highway to an 8,575-foot-high, sub-alpine Tuolumne Meadows, surrounded by granite peaks and domes.

Tuolumne Meadows is closer to Tioga Pass than to the Yosemite Valley. It's Yosemite's epicenter for back country hiking, with the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails passing nearby. Even if you don't want to hike or stay overnight, it's an easy day trip drive to Tuolumne Meadows from the Yosemite Valley.

Tuolumne Meadows is a summer sight - the road closes in winter because of snow. You'll find more information about the road closures here.

Tuolumne Meadows Sights

Stop at the Tuolumne Meadows visitor center for more information about the area. It's open in summer only. Sights near Tuolumne Meadows include:

• Olmstead Point: A few miles west, it's one of the best Yosemite vistas anywhere.

• Tenaya Lake: A lovely alpine lake right beside the road a few miles before you reach Tuolumne Meadows.

• Soda Springs: If you're short on time or energy, try the half-mile trail to Soda Springs, named for their naturally-carbonated waters.

• Hiking: Some of the hikes at Tuolumne Meadows are short and fairly easy. Here's a list.

Tuolumne Meadows Lodging

If you want to linger, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge offers 69 cabins, each big enough for four, equipped with beds and linens. Be prepared for an old-fashioned experience: there's no electricity at Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, but candles and a wood-burning stove are provided. Visitors share central showers and restrooms.

You will also find a campground at Tuolumne Meadows. If you're susceptible to altitude sickness, you should know that Tuolumne Meadows is one of the highest places in the park, perhaps better-suited for a quick visit than an overnight stay if you're not adjusted to the altitude.

Getting to Tuolumne Meadows

If you're driving from the Yosemite Valley, take CA Hwy 120 west to Tuolumne Meadows.

In summer, you can take a shuttle bus to Tuolumne Meadows from the Valley or use the YARTS Highway 120 bus. Both charge a small fare. A free shuttle bus runs in the Tuolumne Meadows area during the busy season. In winter, the only access to Tuolumne Meadows is by snowshoe or cross-country skis.