Sunrise Lakes Trailhead - Clouds Rest

Sunrise Lakes Trailhead sits along Tioga Road and is the starting point for two of Yosemite's high-country classics: the chain of Sunrise Lakes and the granite dome of Clouds Rest. It's rated 4.8 out of 5 across 114 reviews, and the recurring theme in that feedback is a well-built trail that demands real effort for its views — this is a full-day hike, not a stroll.

On the Trail

The first mile stays close to level before the trail climbs roughly 1,000 feet over the next mile to a ridge. At the top, a left fork heads toward Sunrise Lakes and a right fork continues to Clouds Rest. Expect a rocky tread with exposed tree roots for long stretches, and pack trekking poles if you use them. Hikers commonly report a round trip to Clouds Rest of around 15 miles (about 7.4 miles each way). One reviewer logged 11 hours car-to-car at a slower pace, and others simply describe it as a whole day of hiking — plan for a full day out and a dawn start.

Water and Conditions

• Carry at least three liters of water per person — reviewers describe one small stream or pond where filtering is possible partway up, then nothing reliable for the rest of the climb.
• Early-September hikers reported dry trail conditions and no mosquitoes; water availability shifts through the season, so check current trail reports before you go.
• Wildfire smoke can flatten the payoff views in late summer — reviewers suggest saving Clouds Rest for a clear day and picking something shorter when smoke is heavy.

Getting There

The trailhead is directly off Tioga Road (Highway 120), which reviewers note is a notably shorter approach than hiking to Clouds Rest from Yosemite Valley. The parking area is small and was reported to be under expansion, so arrive early — especially on summer weekends.