Overview
Yosemite's overlooked northwest corner - a reservoir behind O'Shaughnessy Dam ringed by granite walls and waterfalls, an hour from the Valley through a separate entrance and a fraction of the crowds. Wapama Falls is the signature hike across the dam, Rancheria Falls is the long shoreline walk, and the entrance road is open year-round (gated overnight). A day-use trip or a permitted backpacking overnight - a different, quieter Yosemite.
Headline Hikes
4.9 mi 1,085 ft gain 2.6 hr
The signature Hetch Hetchy hike - across the top of O'Shaughnessy Dam and along the reservoir's north shore to Wapama Falls, which thunders over a series of footbridges in spring, passing Tueeulala Falls on the way. Best April-June at peak flow; the bridges can be impassable at the highest water.
12.9 mi 2,634 ft gain
A long out-and-back along the reservoir to Rancheria Falls - the full Hetch Hetchy shoreline, far quieter than the Yosemite Valley trails and often done as a backpacking overnight. Bears are active here; a permit and bear canister are required to camp.
2.8 mi 547 ft gain 1.4 hr
A short climb from near the Hetch Hetchy entrance to a granite outcrop with the first open view over the reservoir and Kolana Rock - a quick leg-stretch if you're not committing to the dam hike.
Trail descriptions are field-tested summaries; verify current conditions and closures with NPS before hiking.
Save on Entry
The America the Beautiful annual pass pays for itself in two or three park visits. Free entry, free passenger fees, and no more fumbling for a credit card at the kiosk.
Buy your pass →
Learn more about the pass
Ships from US Park Pass. Free shipping in the continental US.