Tuolumne Meadows to Red’s Meadow - Day and Section Hikes - page 41

2 Tuolumne Meadows to Red's Meadow
S CENERY :
T RAIL CONDITION :
C HILDREN :
D IFFICULTY :
S OLITUDE :
D ISTANCE : 37 miles
H IKING TIME : 3-5 days
O UTSTANDING FEATURES : Lyell Canyon, Donahue Pass, Island Pass, Thousand Island
Lake, Shadow Lake, Red's Meadow Resort and Campground
Many thru-hikers begin the John Muir Trail in Tuolumne Meadows, since it's easier
to get permits here than from the Happy Isles trailhead. Others start here to avoid the
big climb out of Yosemite Valley and enjoy a more manageable trip start. Indeed, this
section begins with the flattest expanse of the John Muir Trail: nearly 8 miles of
gentle walking along the Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River through wooded thickets
and picture-perfect meadows. Eventually you will tackle Donahue Pass (11,056 feet),
home to many enchanting tarns, and Island Pass (10,205 feet), with its unique islets
floating at high elevation. The next few days of hiking bring you past lovely alpine
lakes with ample camping. Finally, reach the unique geologic formation of Devils
Postpile and the relative creature comforts of Red's Meadow, with free hot-spring
showers, home-cooked meals, and a general store.
DIRECTIONS: T UOLUMNE M EADOWS C AMPGROUND —Yosemite can be entered via
four main gateways: The B IG O AK F LAT R OAD E NTRANCE is on CA 120 West (Big
Oak Flat Road) and is the closest western access to Tuolumne Meadows; the A RCH
R OCK E NTRANCE on CA 140 (El Portal Road) is east of Merced and the safest bet in
inclement weather, as it receives the least amount of snowfall; the S OUTH E NTRANCE
is on CA 41 (Wawona Road), north of Fresno; and the weather-dependent T IOGA
P ASS E NTRANCE is on CA 120 East (Tioga Road); it is the closest eastern access point
to Tuolumne Meadows. Tioga Road is closed during the winter months due to snow,
and sometimes doesn't open until June or July. While the first three entrances are
generally open year-round, all roads are subject to closure; check with the park ser-
vice by phone at [phone] or visit www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/condi-