For The Hardcore Hiker

For those who like long, immersive hikes deep into epic wilderness scenery, Yosemite National Park is a world-class stomping ground. Beyond the paved paths and interpretive loops, there are hundreds of miles of tough switchbacks, ridgetop rambles, and backwoods tracks for your adventuring pleasure. The legendary John Muir, for whom the Sierra Nevada was a spiritual home, used to tramp the Yosemite backcountry with little more than a piece of bread and some tea: His true sustenance seemed to be the grandeur of the landscape. Anyone taking to Yosemite’s glorious trails becomes privy to the raw source of Muir’s inspiration. Topnotch Trails One of Yosemite’s finest hikes is that to the summit of 7,779-foot Eagle Peak, loftiest of the “Three Brothers,” those big granite crags looming above Yosemite Valley between El Capitan and Yosemite Falls. Speaking of Muir, he lauded the prospect of the valley from Eagle Peak to be the best available. You'll also peer vastly farther distances up the crest of the High Sierra. It’s about 14 miles round-trip between the trailhead at Lower Fall to the summit, making it a rigorous day hike. Pausing along yet another grueling switchback, you’ll have fantastic scenery to keep you going. Other excellent treks for fit, experienced hikers include the Four Mile and Pohono trails climbing steeply out of Yosemite Valley as well as numerous high-country routes off Glacier Point and Tioga roads. Considerations This time of year, don’t forget to prepare yourself for the potential for fast-changing weather. You’ll need to carry tire chains (even if you never have to put them on), and tote plenty of layers of both rain gear and winter clothes in case a storm develops. Check the current conditions on the park website or at a ranger station: Any road may temporarily shut down due to weather, and Tioga and Glacier Point roads usually close for the season sometime in November. You’ll never run out of trail miles in Yosemite. Spread your topographic map out on a Scenic Wonders cabin table and plan your adventures!

Make Your Yosemite Reservations Today

If you’re looking to explore Yosemite, start planning your trip with Yosemite’s Scenic Wonders. We offer Yosemite reservations within the gates of the park. With one of our cozy cabins, condominiums, or homes, your Yosemite accommodations will be just minutes from all the wonderful spots in Yosemite. Give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) to learn about our rentals and to make your Yosemite reservations today.

Yosemite National Park Blog

Scenic Wonders’ Yosemite blog provides the latest news related to Yosemite National Park. By reading our blog, you’ll stay up to date on activities, accommodations, and more. Image: Andrew Davidoff