Tuolumne Meadows

Hidden Gem of Eastern Yosemite

Tuolumne Meadows is a high-elevation meadow located in the eastern part Yosemite. The meadow is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, and it is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.

Some of the notable features of Tuolumne Meadows include:

The wide open spaces of the meadow, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a sense of serenity and solitude
The Tuolumne River, which flows through the meadow and is popular for fly fishing and swimming
The rock climbing opportunities, with routes for climbers of all skill levels
The chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, including marmots, pikas, mule deer, and birds such as the American Dipper.

Hiking & Backpacking Around Tuolumne Meadows

Tuolumne Meadows is a popular destination for hiking, with a wide variety of trails to choose from. Some of the most popular hikes in the area include:

Lembert Dome: This moderate hike takes you to the top of a granite dome with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The round-trip distance is about 4 miles (6.4 km).
Cathedral Lakes: This moderate to strenuous hike takes you to two beautiful alpine lakes surrounded by granite cliffs. The round-trip distance is about 8 miles (13 km).
Elizabeth Lake: This easy hike takes you to a small alpine lake with great views of the surrounding peaks. The round-trip distance is about 2.5 miles (4 km).
John Muir Trail: This long-distance trail runs through Tuolumne Meadows and continues south to the highest peak in the contiguous United States, Mount Whitney.
Pacific Crest Trail: This long-distance trail runs through Tuolumne Meadows and continues north to Canada and south to Mexico.

There are also many shorter and easier trails in the area, suitable for families or those looking for a more relaxed hike.

Your Trusted Tuolumne Meadows Tour Guides

Since 1997, we’ve guided groups throughout this hidden gem in Eastern Yosemite. Our catalog of Yosemite trips includes several Tuolumne Meadows Day Hikes and Backpacking Adventures. (All Lasting Adventures trips including required permits.)

Your Tuolumne Meadows adventure awaits!

Backpacking Trips