About This Route
Clouds Rest backpacking from Tuolumne Meadows via Tenaya Lake trailhead covers 14 miles round-trip with 2,000 feet gain, offering panoramic views rivaling Half Dome without cables. Begin at the Sunrise Trailhead near Tenaya Lake, pass through meadows and forests, camp at designated sites near Clouds Rest junction, then summit the knife-edge ridge. Permits are required; reserve via recreation.gov. This high-country route suits multi-day trips combined with Young Lakes. Practice Leave No Trace by packing out all waste and using established campsites to protect fragile meadows.
Safety Considerations
Afternoon thunderstorms are common above 9,000 feet; NPS urges crossing ridges by noon. Narrow ridge exposure on the final approach demands focus; windy conditions amplify fall risks. Early snowfields persist into July; equip with microspikes and poles. Mosquitoes peak mid-summer; use DEET repellent. Water sources dry up late season; carry a filter and plan crossings carefully, unbuckling hip belts. Hypothermia from sudden weather shifts; layer with merino wool base and Gore-Tex shell.
Essential Gear
Bear canister mandatory, water purifier, detailed topo map (National Geographic Yosemite SE), GPS device, stove for boiling water, repair kit. Big Agnes Copper Spur tent for windy sites. Approach shoes for talus, sun hat, and 4,000mAh power bank.
Emergency Tips
On exposed ridge, drop packs and crouch low in storms. Signal rescuers with three whistle blasts. Tuolumne Meadows ranger station at 209-372-0263; use 911. Prevent crevasse-like snow holes by probing ahead.