Overview

The High Sierra Camp Loop ranks among Yosemite's most scenic backpacking routes, threading through the park's stunning high country between Tuolumne Meadows and the Cathedral Range. This 46-50 mile loop connects five historic High Sierra Camps—Glen Aulin, May Lake, Sunrise, Vogelsang, and Merced Lake—each spaced 6-10 miles apart and situated at elevations from 7,800 to 10,300 feet.

The route showcases classic Sierra Nevada scenery: polished granite peaks, crystalline alpine lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, cascading waterfalls, and expansive views across Yosemite's wilderness. You'll traverse Vogelsang Pass, camp beside the roaring Tuolumne River, and wake to sunrise views of Mount Florence and Mount Clark. The trail can be hiked in either direction, though most backpackers go counter-clockwise starting from Tuolumne Meadows.

This is an excellent trip for strong intermediate to advanced backpackers comfortable with high-elevation hiking and variable alpine weather. The significant elevation gain (8,000+ feet cumulative), potential for afternoon thunderstorms, and occasional navigational challenges make this unsuitable for beginners. However, the well-maintained trail, reliable water sources, and bear lockers at each camp location make logistics manageable for those with solid backcountry skills.

Permits & Regulations

A wilderness permit is mandatory year-round for overnight trips in Yosemite's backcountry. Permits cost $5 per person plus a $15 non-refundable reservation fee when booked in advance, or $10 per group plus $5 per person for walk-up permits during the season. You can reserve permits up to 24 weeks in advance through Recreation.gov, with 60% of permits available at the 24-week mark and the remaining 40% released two weeks before your start date.

Popular trailheads for the High Sierra Camp Loop (Lyell Canyon, Cathedral Lakes, Glen Aulin) have daily quotas typically ranging from 25-40 people, and permits sell out quickly for summer dates. Apply as soon as the reservation window opens. During the off-season (November through April), free permits are available at self-registration stations with no advance reservation needed.

Bear canisters are mandatory throughout Yosemite wilderness—no exceptions. Tree-hanging is prohibited. Approved canisters can be rented from the park for $5 per week (7 days) with a $95 deposit, available at wilderness centers in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. The Ursack is not approved in Yosemite despite being certified elsewhere.

Campfires are restricted to below 9,600 feet and must be built only in existing fire rings at least 100 feet from water and trails. Above 9,600 feet, use stoves only. Check current fire restrictions before your trip, as additional bans may be in effect during high fire danger.

Maximum group size is 15 people total (children count toward this limit). The $35 park entrance fee is valid for seven consecutive days, or purchase the $70 annual Yosemite Pass.

Best Season

The High Sierra Camps typically operate from early July through early September, and this window represents peak backpacking season on the loop. However, the absolute best conditions occur from late July through mid-August, when snowpack has melted, stream crossings are manageable, and the brutal mosquito hatches have subsided.

Early season (late June through mid-July) brings snowmelt-swollen creeks, lingering snow patches at higher elevations, and legendary mosquito swarms. Trip reports universally mention "tons of mosquitoes" and recommend head nets and strong repellent if hiking before late July. High water can make creek crossings challenging or dangerous during peak runoff.

Mid-season (late July through mid-August) offers ideal conditions: snow-free trails, moderate creek flows, dramatically reduced mosquito populations, and reliable afternoon weather patterns. Wildflowers peak in meadows during this window. Temperatures are pleasant for hiking, typically 60s-70s during the day and 30s-40s at night. Book permits well in advance for these prime weeks.

Late season (late August through September) provides excellent hiking with cooler temperatures, minimal bugs, occasional fall colors, and fewer crowds. September is considered the nicest month by many veterans, with stable weather and solitude. However, water sources begin drying up—the route to Sunrise camp can be completely dry by September, requiring careful planning and extra carrying capacity. Some streams that flow reliably in July may be reduced to trickles or dry by late September.

Winter access: Tioga Road closes from November through late May (sometimes into June in heavy snow years), making the high country inaccessible. Check current road conditions before planning shoulder-season trips.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer months. Start hiking early and reach camp by early afternoon to avoid lightning exposure on exposed passes and ridgelines.

Water & Resupply

Water is abundant along the High Sierra Camp Loop from July through mid-August, with creeks, lakes, and the Tuolumne and Merced Rivers providing reliable sources. All water must be treated—carry a filter, chemical purification, or UV sterilizer. Choose flowing streams over still ponds when possible.

Seasonal reliability varies significantly: In July during peak snowmelt, water is everywhere. By late August and September, some sections become dry. The climb to Sunrise camp is notorious for being 100% waterless in late season—plan to carry 2-3 liters for this section. Similarly, sections of the trail between Vogelsang and Merced Lake may have reduced flow by September. Always ask rangers about current water conditions when picking up your permit.

Each High Sierra Camp has bear lockers accessible to backpackers (you don't need to be a paying guest), providing secure food storage at Glen Aulin, May Lake, Sunrise, Vogelsang, and Merced Lake. These bear boxes allow you to cache food mid-loop, reducing the weight you carry on any given day. Some backpackers drop food at May Lake trailhead or the Sunrise camp boxes before starting the loop, carrying only 2-3 days of food at a time.

No resupply towns are accessible mid-loop without exiting the wilderness. The nearest services are in Tuolumne Meadows (limited grocery at the store, gas, showers) or Yosemite Valley (full services). Most backpackers carry all food for the 5-6 day trip, though food caching in bear boxes is a popular strategy to reduce pack weight.

Hazards & Challenges

River and creek crossings on the High Sierra Camp Loop are generally manageable during normal summer conditions (July-September). Most crossings have logs or stepping stones, and few require fording. However, during peak snowmelt (late June-early July) or in high snow years, crossings can be swollen and dangerous. Early season hikers should have creek crossing experience and be prepared for cold, fast-moving water. By late summer, most crossings are easy rock-hops.

Lightning is the most serious hazard. Afternoon thunderstorms build regularly in the Sierra high country during summer. Start hiking early and plan to reach camp by 2-3pm to avoid being caught on exposed ridges and passes during peak lightning hours. If you hear thunder, immediately descend from high points, avoid isolated trees and open meadows, and seek shelter in dense forest. Vogelsang Pass and the exposed terrain around Sunrise camp are particularly dangerous during storms.

Elevation and acclimatization challenge many hikers. The loop traverses elevations from 7,800 to 10,300 feet with over 8,000 feet of cumulative gain. Altitude sickness symptoms—headache, nausea, fatigue—are common for those coming from sea level. Spend 2-3 nights in Tuolumne Meadows before starting to acclimatize. Sleep at lower camps when possible: Glen Aulin (7,800') and Merced Lake (7,150') are excellent acclimatization camps.

Bears are active throughout the loop. Use the bear lockers at each camp—never leave food unattended. Bears have learned to associate the High Sierra Camps with food and frequently patrol these areas. In the backcountry between camps, use your bear canister religiously and store it 100 feet from camp.

Mosquitoes from mid-June through mid-July can be absolutely brutal. Head nets, long sleeves, and strong DEET are essential for early season trips. By late July, populations crash dramatically.

Navigation is straightforward on maintained trail sections, but junctions can be confusing. Carry a detailed map and know your route. Cell service is non-existent throughout the loop.

Getting There

Most backpackers start the High Sierra Camp Loop from one of several trailheads accessed via Tuolumne Meadows along Tioga Road (Highway 120). Tuolumne Meadows is located 55 miles (1.5 hours) from Yosemite Valley via Tioga Road, or 8 miles west of the park's east entrance at Tioga Pass. Common starting trailheads include:

Tuolumne Meadows/Glen Aulin Trailhead (most popular)
Cathedral Lakes Trailhead
Lyell Canyon Trailhead
Sunrise Lakes Trailhead
May Lake Trailhead (requires 1.2 mile uphill approach from parking)

From Yosemite Valley: Take Highway 120 east for 10 miles to Crane Flat, then continue on Tioga Road for 38 more miles to Tuolumne Meadows.

From the east: From Lee Vining on Highway 395, take Highway 120 west 13 miles through Tioga Pass (9,945') into the park. Tuolumne Meadows is 8 miles from the entrance station.

Road conditions: Tioga Road is closed from November through late May (sometimes June in heavy snow years). The road typically opens in late May or early June depending on snowpack. No gas is available at Tuolumne Meadows—fill up in Lee Vining, Yosemite Valley, or before entering the park.

Parking can be challenging during summer weekends. Arrive early (before 8am) to secure a spot at popular trailheads like Cathedral Lakes. The Tuolumne Meadows area has multiple lots; look for signs for your specific trailhead.

Shuttle options: The YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) bus runs from Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite Valley with stops at Tuolumne Meadows from June through September. Cost is $23 each way. The Yosemite Hiker's Bus runs between Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows with stops at all major Tioga Road trailheads—you can flag it down at any trailhead if there's room. This is useful for point-to-point hikes or if you're starting and ending at different trailheads.

Nearest airports: Fresno (FAT) is 2.5 hours to Yosemite Valley. Reno (RNO) is 3.5 hours via the east entrance. Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) is closest to Tuolumne Meadows but has limited service.

Nearest towns: Lee Vining (12 miles east of Tuolumne) offers gas, groceries, restaurants, and lodging. Mammoth Lakes (45 miles southeast) has full services. Yosemite Valley has groceries, restaurants, showers, and gear shops.

Tips

Cache food in bear boxes to reduce pack weight. Many hikers drop 2-3 days of food at May Lake trailhead or in the bear boxes at Sunrise camp before starting the loop, then pick it up mid-trip. This strategy lets you carry only 2-3 days of food at a time instead of 6 days.

Hike counter-clockwise starting from Tuolumne Meadows/Glen Aulin. This puts the steepest climb (Vogelsang Pass) later in the trip when your pack is lighter, and positions you for spectacular sunrise views at Sunrise camp.

Camp strategically for acclimatization. If you're coming from low elevation, plan your first night at Glen Aulin (7,800') or another lower camp rather than immediately climbing to 10,000+ feet. Many hikers underestimate the elevation gain on this route.

Start hiking by 6-7am to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and have camp set up by early afternoon. This schedule also means cooler temperatures for climbs and fewer crowds at popular campsites.

Use the vault toilets at each High Sierra Camp—they're available to backpackers even if you're not staying at the lodges. Sunrise camp reportedly has the best facilities. Vogelsang has no toilets, so practice proper Leave No Trace catholes 200 feet from water.

Don't camp right at the High Sierra Camps unless you enjoy crowds and generator noise (the camps run on generators). Hike 0.5-1 mile past each camp for more solitude and better campsites. However, stay close enough to use the bear lockers for food storage.

Water up before dry sections, especially the climb to Sunrise camp which can be completely dry by late August. Carry capacity for 2-3 liters during potentially waterless stretches.

Wildflower timing: Peak bloom in alpine meadows typically occurs in mid-July. If you can tolerate the mosquitoes, this is the most spectacular time visually.

Fall colors and solitude: September offers golden aspens, fewer crowds, and stable weather, but water sources are less reliable. This is the month for experienced backpackers who don't mind carrying extra water.

Permits for Cathedral Lakes trailhead are especially competitive. Consider alternate starting points like Lyell Canyon or Glen Aulin for better permit availability.

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