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Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne

A Hidden Gem in Yosemite

The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne is a popular destination for visitors to the park. It is accessible by foot, via a number of trails that wind through the canyon and along the river. The canyon is also a popular spot for rock climbing, with a number of challenging routes up the steep walls of the gorge.

The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne is known for its beautiful and varied landscape, which includes forests, meadows, and a wide range of plant and animal life. It is also home to a number of unique geological features, including massive granite cliffs and formations, and a number of natural bridges and arches. Overall, the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne is a truly remarkable and beautiful place, and it is well worth a visit for anyone interested in nature and outdoor adventure.

Hiking Around the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne

There are several hiking trails that provide access to the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne. One of the most popular trails is the Tuolumne Meadows to Glen Aulin Trail, which follows the river through the canyon and offers views of the river, waterfalls, and the surrounding landscape. The trail is about 10 miles (16.1 km) long and takes most hikers about 5-7 hours to complete.

Other trails in the area include the Pate Valley Trail, which follows the river downstream from Glen Aulin, and the Lembert Dome Trail, which offers panoramic views of the canyon and the surrounding mountains.

Backpacking in the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne

The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne is a strenuous backpacking route, with a total distance of about 30 miles (48.2 km) and an elevation gain of over 6,000 feet (1,829 m). The route follows the Tuolumne River from its headwaters in the high country of the park, passing through the Grand Canyon and ending at Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. Along the way, hikers will pass through a variety of landscapes, including alpine meadows, granite cliffs, and deep forests.

There are several dispersed campsites along the route, including camps at Glen Aulin, Pate Valley, and Rancheria Falls. Glen Aulin even bear boxes for storing food and other scented items, as well as pit toilets and potable water sources. Hikers are required to follow Leave No Trace principles and practice responsible camping to protect the wilderness.

Overall, the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne is a challenging but rewarding backpacking trip that offers stunning views and a chance to experience the wilderness of Yosemite National Park

Your Trusted Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne Tour Guides

Since 1997, we’ve guided groups along every step of this exhilarating experience. Our catalog of Yosemite trips includes a guided tour that explores the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne (All Lasting Adventures trips including required permits.)

 

View from our Yosemite Backpacking trips to the grand Canyon of the tuolumne

Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne

The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne is a true gem in a less-visited area of Yosemite. Explore everything Tuolumne has to offer on this Yosemite Backpacking Trip

Trip Highlights:

Difficulty:

Strenuous

Trip Length:

5 Days

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