Yosemite is a place where you must go if you ever have the chance. Not because it’s beautiful, but because it’s magical. Filled with life at every season. Every time I come here, I am always grateful for nature. And this time, I loved it even more. Especially from the view from Clouds Rest!
It’s September and the crowds start to die down as fall approaches. Starting at 5 AM, our group of 8 started at the Sunrise Trailhead near Tenaya Lake. The actual sunrise begins at 615AM so we were prepared with headlamps. Luckily, it was a full moon out so it wasn’t really necessary.
Clouds Rest Trail via Sunrise Trailhead
Clouds Rest Trail via Tenaya Lake/Sunrise Trailhead is on Tioga Pass and away from Yosemite Valley. Make sure you arrive early because this parking area gets super busy. Additionally, Tenaya Lake is the starting point which makes it a perfect place to rest after this hike.
Things to note about this trail. First, you are above 8000 feet which is high altitude and can affect your breathing. Second, it’s popular so be ready for crowds. And finally, bring water because you will need it.
With this trail, the views are beautiful. It is a little above 1,700 feet of climb. There is a lot of shade on this trail as well as a lot of open areas so be prepared for both. When it is hot, this hike gets uncomfortable in the open areas.
Trail Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/clouds-rest-trail-via-tenaya-lake
The Hike In
As we began the hike a little after 530 AM, the moon was out and headlamps were on (for some of us). The trail is considered difficult and this was my second time doing this trail. The first time on this trail, I found it moderate. However, from this experience, I was exhausted for some reason.
The first mile is nice and easy. Once you begin the ascent, you will find that the switchbacks uphill will take a while. It’s about 1,000 feet of climb for around a mile. This will be the most challenging part of the trail.
After the climb, the trail takes you down about 350 feet and then back up to Clouds Rest. Along the way, there are beautiful views of trees, open areas, streams, and ponds.
The pond on the way to Clouds Rest is very beautiful and reflective. It’s a great place to rest if you need to soak in the view. Additionally, it’s quite photo-worthy when it isn’t windy.
As we arrive at the base of Clouds Rest, tiered granite leads up to the top. It’s an astonishing view along the way up on both ends of the granite. The climb up on the granite can be dangerous at times as both ends are drop-offs. Take caution especially when it’s wet.
At the top of Clouds Rest is one of the most beautiful views of Yosemite. At 9,926 feet, you can peer into the valley and spot the iconic landmarks of Half Dome, Sentinel Dome, North Dome, Mount Hoffman, Tenaya Lake, and some of Cathedral Rocks and El Capitan. Additionally, tons of other peaks that I not even sure of. This would be a great location to use Peak Finder!
Spend some time at the top as the views are amazing. Also, having lunch here made it even more rewarding. We spent time taking photos and traversing some of the granite.
As we made our way down, you will find looking down the granite is really amazing. Take a photo here as it shows how open this place is at the top.
The way down isn’t so bad. It’s straightforward and easy to navigate. As we got closer to the trailhead, we felt that this was a long hike. Nonetheless, we enjoyed it so much even if it was the second time we have done this trail.
Overall
The hike was difficult for some and okay for me. The high altitude actually made me slower for sure. Also, I was slightly sick with a cold. Dogs are not allowed in this area so we left our pup at a sitter over the weekend. The Hike is about 13-14 miles in and out. It took us about 8 hours with the breaks and taking photos. Definitely, I recommend this hike as a must-do in Yosemite!
Quick Links
Trailhead: Google Maps
Trail map: All Trails
National Park Information: Yosemite Information
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