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Turner Meadow
A quiet waypoint on Wawona's backcountry loop toward Buena Vista Lake
About
Turner Meadow is a small, unassuming meadow along Yosemite's Chilnualna Falls–Buena Vista backcountry route, in the wilderness south of Wawona and Fish Camp. There's no trailhead named for it and no overlook — it's simply the open ground you cross partway into a multi-day trip toward Buena Vista Lake and Royal Arch Lake.
Getting there
Access starts at the Chilnualna Falls Trailhead in Wawona, a short drive north of Fish Camp. The trail climbs past Chilnualna Falls' multi-tiered cascade, then keeps climbing along Chilnualna Creek well into the backcountry. Turner Meadow sits along this stretch, north of the Grouse Lake Creek crossing — well past the falls and well past a typical day-hike distance for most visitors.
Part of a bigger loop
Most hikers reach Turner Meadow as one waypoint on the Buena Vista Range loop, which continues to Buena Vista Lake, over 9,040-foot Buena Vista Pass, and down to Royal Arch Lake before looping back — typically a trip of several days and well over 20 miles. Recent trip reports describe the forest along this stretch as thinned and scruffy, a lingering effect of the 2017 South Fork Fire, with downed trees and seasonal washouts to navigate beyond Chilnualna Creek.
Before you go
- Any overnight stay requires a Yosemite Wilderness Permit — this is backcountry travel, not a maintained day-use trail.
- Expect downed trees, brushy sections, and creek crossings that can run high early in the season; be ready to navigate by map or GPS where the tread thins out.
- There's no water treatment or facilities on site — filter from the creek and carry a bear canister as required throughout Yosemite Wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Turner Meadow a day hike from Fish Camp?
No. It sits well beyond Chilnualna Falls on a backcountry route, and most hikers reach it only as part of a multi-day trip, not a single-day outing.
Where does the trail to Turner Meadow start?
At the Chilnualna Falls Trailhead in Wawona, a short drive north of Fish Camp. The trail climbs past the falls before continuing deep into the wilderness.
Do you need a permit to camp near Turner Meadow?
Yes. Any overnight stay in this section of Yosemite Wilderness requires a wilderness permit, since Turner Meadow lies along a backcountry route, not a day-use trail.
What trail conditions should I expect around Turner Meadow?
Recent trip reports describe downed trees, brushy sections, and seasonal creek washouts beyond Chilnualna Creek, along with scruffy forest left over from the 2017 South Fork Fire.
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