Tuolumne Meadows

Tuolumne Meadows showing tranquil scenes and snow
Tuolumne Meadows featuring snow, mountains and tranquil scenes
Tuolumne Meadows
Tuolumne Meadows which includes tranquil scenes
Tuolumne Meadows featuring snow and tranquil scenes


Explore the meadows of Yosemite National Park’s high country and see its velvety green plains studded with stunning granite domes, Sierra willows and wildflowers.

The Tuolumne Meadows offer a tranquil expanse of sub-alpine high country landscape, carpeted by lush grasses and myriad California wildflowers. Explore the picturesque walking trails and enjoy Yosemite’s breathtaking showcase of granite peaks, a winding river and towering coniferous woods.

Stroll along Tuolumne Meadows’ network of easy trails, which total approximately 2 miles (3 kilometres). You’ll cross scenic footbridges that span the gentle waters of the Tuolumne River. Look out across the wide expanse of green meadows and view the panorama of granite peaks, including the bald rise of Lembert Dome and the jagged summit of Cathedral Peak. See serene pools of the Tuolumne floodwaters reflecting the sky in springtime, when snowmelt inundates the meadows.

Walk to Soda Springs to see a historic timber cabin or check out the tree-studded vista from Pothole Dome. If you time your visit with late spring and early summer, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking array of Californian wildflowers. You might spot rare species, such as the purple webber lupine. Throughout the year, you’ll see varieties of sedge and reed grasses.

Several hiking and rock climbing trails traverse the Tuolumne Meadows. Stop at the visitor centre to learn which trails are recommended for the period of your stay. Hike between Lyell Canyon and the meadows or take on a section of the John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail.

Tuolumne Meadows is located in central Yosemite National Park. Access the area via Tioga Road, which has regular closures in winter due to heavy snowfall. The meadow has restrooms, a convenience store and several small parking lots. Stay overnight at the Tuolumne Meadows campground or indulge in a bit more luxury at one of the scenic lodges located nearby. If you visit during an especially wet, marshy summer, be sure to pack plenty of mosquito repellant for your meandering. The walking trail is an easy stroll, but make sure you give yourself some time to acclimate to the high country’s elevation.

Plan a trip to see Tuolumne Meadows

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Things to do near Tuolumne Meadows

Tuolumne Meadows offers a wealth of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including scenic hiking trails and camping opportunities. Enjoy delightful day trips to explore the stunning landscape, embark on nice hikes to take in breathtaking views, or indulge in a unique outdoor adventure. For a memorable experience, consider mule rides that allow you to traverse the beautiful terrain while enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Shopping

In Tuolumne Meadows, you can visit the local shops for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, El Portal Market, located 16.8km away, offers a range of souvenirs and essentials, making it a worthwhile stop for your holiday shopping.

Recreation

At Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, enjoy serene moments surrounded by nature, perfect for relaxation and picnics. For golf enthusiasts, Snowcreek Golf Course and Wawona Golf Course offer stunning outdoor settings to unwind while playing a round amidst the beautiful Californian landscape.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Mist Trail, a hiking trail 9.3km from Tuolumne Meadows, showcasing stunning outdoor scenery. For winter sports enthusiasts, June Mountain offers exhilarating skiing 11.2km away. Alternatively, relax at the Cathedral Beach Picnic Area, also located 11.2km from Tuolumne Meadows, perfect for outdoor leisure.

Nightlife

At Tuolumne Meadows, the Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, 9.9km away, offers enchanting performances with a blend of culture and romance. Meanwhile, the Edison Theater, 16.8km distant, provides a charming setting for family-friendly entertainment and cultural experiences, perfect for a delightful evening out.

Find the best attractions near Tuolumne Meadows

Tuolumne Meadows offers a stunning array of outdoor attractions, including serene lakes, impressive rock formations, and the informative visitor centre. Adventurous travellers can explore the Tuolumne River and the breathtaking Yosemite Valley, perfect for sightseers seeking captivating scenery. This region is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy various activities amidst the picturesque landscape.

  • Yosemite Tioga Pass Entrance: As you approach Yosemite Tioga Pass Entrance, prepare for a breathtaking adventure filled with stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities. The drive to this entrance is picturesque, offering numerous opportunities for hiking and exploring the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
  • Half Dome: Half Dome is an iconic rock formation that captivates with its sheer granite face and striking views. The challenging hike to its summit rewards adventurers with panoramic vistas that are nothing short of spectacular, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Mirror Lake: This serene lake is perfect for a romantic outing or a peaceful day by the water. Surrounded by majestic cliffs, Mirror Lake offers stunning reflections, inviting strolls along its shores, and opportunities for picnicking in a tranquil setting.

Best time to go to Tuolumne Meadows

The best time to visit Tuolumne Meadows is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). December and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January27.7°F (-2.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February26.6°F (-3.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March28.9°F (-1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
May42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June54.3°F (12.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
July62.8°F (17.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August61.0°F (16.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
September55.6°F (13.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
November33.6°F (0.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
December26.6°F (-3.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Tuolumne Meadows

To save money on your visit to Tuolumne Meadows, consider travelling between September and November for lower accommodation rates, particularly on Tuesdays. Avoid Fridays, which are typically the priciest. Utilise Expedia's search tool to filter for eco-certified hotels and sort by price to find the best deals. Additionally, bundling your hotel stay with flights and activities can lead to significant savings. Take advantage of free activities in the area, and look into affordable public transport options to explore the stunning surroundings without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Tuolumne Meadows are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Tuolumne Meadows is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Tuolumne Meadows is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and ideal hotel type. For instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your Tuolumne Meadows hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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