Tuolumne Meadows

Many Yosemite visitors spend all their time in the Valley and never venture to Tuolumne (pronounced two-ol-um-knee) Meadows. 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 the best part of the park for backcountry hiking, with the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails passing nearby, but even if you don't want to hike, the drive up to Tuolumne Meadows is beautiful.

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:

• 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.

Tuolumne Meadows Lodging

Tuolumne Meadows Lodge: Offers 69 cabins, each big enough for four, equipped with beds and linens. There is 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 campground is one of the highest in the park.

Getting to Tuolumne Meadows

If you're driving, take CA 120 west to Tuolumne Meadows.

In summer, you can take a shuttle bus to Tuolumne Meadows from the Valley. In winter, the only access to Tuolumne Meadows is by snowshoe or cross-country skis.