Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
weren't for the fact that you undoubtedly will want to stop and take pictures, soak in
the beauty, and perhaps take a dip in the river's cool waters.
From the Dog Lake Parking Lot (8,700 feet), cross the road and follow signs to
the John Muir Trail. After half a mile, cross a bridge over the Dana Fork of the
Tuolumne River. Shortly thereafter, a second bridge takes you over the Lyell Fork.
About 1.5 easy miles from the trailhead, traverse rushing Rafferty Creek on a hand-
some footbridge (8,720 feet), and begin a beautiful stroll in and out of forest thickets
and along the grassy expanse of Lyell Canyon. The area is named for Charles Lyell,
a 19th-century lawyer turned geologist and good friend of Charles Darwin.
Up until the mid-1800s, with its outpouring of prospectors and explorers, Native
Americans were the only people to enjoy the beauty of this region. Miwok and
Mono Indians stopped in the area to trade during the summer en route east. After
early adventuring pioneers found silver in the Tioga Mine, the area bustled with min-
ing activity for several years. Today, the area still sees both a fair amount of trade
and modern prospecting in the retail shops of the park.
The area is particularly lush in early season with an explosion of fiery wild-
flowers. Late April through mid-November, rainbow trout lure anglers to this stretch
of Yosemite, while day hikers and picnickers hunker down by the river year-round.
The trail alternates between shady pockets of pine trees and open meadows,
never rising more than 300 feet as it parallels the Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River.
The canyon is quite wide, so while there are imposing granite walls lining the mead-
ow, it feels very open. Enjoy stunning views of the famed Unicorn Peak and farther
along, Mount Lyell, the park's highest peak at 13,114 feet.
After crossing Rafferty Creek, reach your next trail junction in a little more than
4 miles at the turnoff (8,900 feet) for Ireland Lake and the designated return spot.
Your walk brings you within feet of the shallow and gently flowing river that has
been carving this valley for millions of years. Sometimes the water tumbles over gi-
ant rock slides, other times it meanders through grassland, and often it swirls into
deep blue-green pools that invite a stop. Return the way you came, savoring views of
Mammoth Peak and the Kuna Crest.
The trail's proximity to busy Tuolumne Meadows, as well as its level grade,
nearly guarantees that you will have company in this part of the wilderness. The
presence of hikers careless with their food, combined with shallow waters teeming
with fish, also means that this is popular bear and deer country. Be sure to keep your
food secure at all times.
P
ERMIT INFORMATION:
No permits necessary for day hikes
