Hetch Hetchy Area

This reservoir in the north-west of the National Park is a base for a number of trails to stunning and less-visited places.

The trail to the Rancheria Falls heads out up the cliffs overlooking the Hetch Hetchy reservoir, then continues on to the thrilling Rancheria Falls. 13+ miles return. Or you can head on out into the back country to Tilltill valley, Lake Vernon (33 miles return) and Pleasant Valley. Really gorgeous walking, out into superb remote landscape. 

There is an old track which switchbacks up the cliffs overlooking the reservoir. From the top, you head off to Beehive Meadows (14+ miles return). Or, again, onward to Laurel Lake and Lake Vernon (23 miles return).

A wonderful overnighter would be out to Lake Vernon and back, using the above trails to make a fantastic circuit.

From the top of the cliffs, you can also head off west to Miguel Meadows and onward. 

Smith Peak, with wonderful views and a remote setting, can be climbed in a long day from both Hetchy (more climb and steeper, 13.5 miles) and the Mather Ranger Station ( 17 miles, but gentler).

Access by car only – no buses. This makes linear routes harder to organise.

This can be tough walking in high, remote mountains with uncertain weather. Beware thunderstorms, get off high ground if one approaches. Beware bears in backcountry. Come fully prepared.

See our Yosemite page for more general and practical information and photos.

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