Yosemite High Country Day Tour to Tioga Pass and Tuolumne Meadows
Drive Tioga Road to 10,000 feet and stand where granite meets sky. This accessible day tour from Yosemite Valley reaches Tenaya Lake, Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass with interpretive stops and minimal walking required.
The Experience
Before You Go
Acclimate to the elevation
Spend an hour at lower elevation before the tour if possible; bring extra water and ascend slowly to avoid altitude discomfort.
Layer for quick weather shifts
Mornings can be cold and afternoons warm—pack a windproof midlayer and sun protection.
Footwear for mixed surfaces
Even short walks may cross gravel or granite slabs—trail shoes with good grip are recommended.
Carry snacks and refillable bottle
Guides provide bottled water and snacks, but a refillable bottle and electrolyte snacks help keep energy steady at altitude.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning reflections on Tenaya Lake’s east shore (fewer visitors)
- •A short walk from Olmsted Point to view glacial polish and striations up close
Wildlife
- •Marmots
- •Mule deer
Conservation Note
High-country ecosystems are sensitive to trampling and changing snowpacks—stay on durable surfaces and follow Leave No Trace practices to protect alpine meadows.
Tioga Road opened in the early 20th century to connect the Sierra’s east and west sides; the route revealed high-country landscapes that shifted park visitation patterns.
Photographer's Notes
- • Olmsted Point for Half Dome and glacial views
- • East shore of Tenaya Lake for reflections
- • Tuolumne Meadows for wildflower foregrounds
What to Bring
Breathable sun jacketEssential
Shields against wind and intense high-elevation sun between stops.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Provide traction on gravel, granite, and meadow paths.
Sunscreen & sunglassesEssential
High-elevation UV is stronger—protect skin and eyes.
Reusable water bottle with filter
Helpful for refilling at stops and reducing plastic waste.
Common Questions
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Vehicles are described as wheelchair accessible and some stops have minimal unpaved walking; contact the operator ahead to arrange specific needs.
Do I need a park entry pass?
The tour includes a Yosemite 1-day reservation and park fees; guests meeting guides in the valley may still need to pay entrance fees separately.
How does altitude affect the tour?
Tioga Pass sits around 10,000 feet; you may feel short of breath or tired—stay hydrated, move slowly during walks, and inform the guide of any health concerns.
Are restrooms available on the route?
Restrooms are available at major stops like Tuolumne Meadows and Tenaya Lake, but facilities are limited between them—plan accordingly.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Private, custom trips are available—ask the supplier about timing, additional stops, or mobility accommodations when booking.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect smaller high-country species like marmots and songbirds; larger mammals such as mule deer are possible but sightings are less common at road stops.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Lee Vining, California
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; able to walk short unpaved sections and stand on uneven surfaces for photos.
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