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Smith Meadow
A remote high-country meadow earned by a long day hike or overnight trip
About
Smith Meadow is a wide, quiet clearing in the high country north of Yosemite Valley, tucked along the trail that connects the White Wolf area to Smith Peak. It isn't a roadside stop — reaching it takes a serious day hike or an overnight backpacking trip, which is exactly why the crowds thin out the farther you go.
Getting There
The most-traveled approach starts at the White Wolf trailhead off Tioga Road, a round-trip route of about 15.9 miles with roughly 2,171 feet of elevation gain, rated a hard hike that typically runs 7 to 7.5 hours. A shorter climb reaches the meadow from the Hetch Hetchy side near the Mather Ranger Station, gaining about 1,700 feet over roughly 6.4 miles one-way. Most hikers on either route are continuing on to Smith Peak rather than stopping at the meadow alone.
Permits and What to Expect
- Permit: A Yosemite wilderness permit is required year-round for any overnight stay in the backcountry, including camping at Smith Meadow. A day hike doesn't require one.
- Terrain: Trail reports describe the meadow itself as swampy and muddy, especially early in the season, with creek crossings and boggy ground to pick through.
- Best for: Experienced hikers and backpackers comfortable with a full day of trail time and minimal signage past the trailhead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to hike to Smith Meadow?
Only if you're staying overnight. Yosemite requires a wilderness permit year-round for any overnight stay in the backcountry, including at Smith Meadow, but a day hike from the trailhead doesn't need one.
How long is the hike to Smith Meadow?
The main route from the White Wolf trailhead runs about 15.9 miles round trip with roughly 2,171 feet of elevation gain, rated hard and typically taking 7 to 7.5 hours. A shorter climb from the Hetch Hetchy side covers roughly 6.4 miles one-way.
Is Smith Meadow a good day hike?
It's a long one. Most hikers either commit to a full day on the trail or turn it into an overnight trip toward Smith Peak rather than a casual outing.
What's the terrain like at Smith Meadow?
Trail reports describe it as swampy and muddy, especially early in the season, with creek crossings and boggy ground underfoot — plan footwear accordingly.
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