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Cottonwood Meadow Trail
A rugged backcountry meadow route in Yosemite's quiet Hetch Hetchy corner
About
Cottonwood Meadow Trail is a quiet, point-to-point backcountry route in Yosemite's Hetch Hetchy region, starting from the Cottonwood Creek trailhead near Mather Ranger Station. Hiking Project logs it at 5.7 miles one-way with roughly 1,277 feet of elevation gain, rated intermediate for its moderate climbs and uneven tread. The trail crosses Cottonwood Meadow itself, a marshy stretch that has turned more than one hiker around, and it sees little enough traffic that long sections go unmaintained.
What to Expect
This isn't a groomed day-hike. Recent trip reports describe stretches as overgrown and easy to lose, with downed trees, tall grass, and brush swallowing the tread in places. Carry a topo map, GPS track, or compass, and be ready to route-find rather than follow clear markers the whole way. The trail's low traffic suits hikers looking for solitude in Yosemite's quieter northwest corner, but it also means help is farther away if you get turned around.
Getting There and Permits
- Trailhead: Cottonwood Creek trailhead, Mather Ranger Station, Hetch Hetchy
- Distance: 5.7 miles, point-to-point
- Elevation gain: about 1,277 feet
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Day hiking doesn't require a permit, but any overnight stay along this stretch of wilderness does — reserve one through Yosemite's wilderness permit system before you go. Because the trail isn't heavily maintained and conditions shift by season, check current status with a Yosemite wilderness center before setting out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cottonwood Meadow Trail suitable for beginners?
Not really. It's rated intermediate, and current trip reports describe overgrown, hard-to-follow sections. First-time backcountry hikers should go with an experienced partner or pick a more maintained Yosemite trail.
Do I need a permit to hike Cottonwood Meadow Trail?
Not for a day hike. If you're camping overnight anywhere along the route, you'll need a Yosemite wilderness permit, reserved through the park's permit system.
Where does the trail start?
At the Cottonwood Creek trailhead near Mather Ranger Station, in the Hetch Hetchy area on Yosemite's less-visited northwest side.
What should I bring for navigation?
A topo map, compass, or a downloaded GPS track. The tread disappears in places, especially through the meadow's marshy section, so don't rely on trail markers alone.
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