Forsyth Trail

The Forsyth Trail — labeled the Pack Trail on some maps — is a short, steep connector deep in Yosemite's high country, linking the John Muir Trail and Cathedral Fork Trail up to the Clouds Rest Trail. There's no trailhead sign or parking lot for this one: it's a link in a longer backpacking route, not a stand-alone day-hike destination.

Route Details

The trail runs 2.4 miles point-to-point and climbs 1,127 feet, with an average grade of 9% and pitches as steep as 26%. Trail-authority ratings put it at intermediate to difficult — a real climb packed into a short distance. Expect switchbacks on packed dirt, a creek crossing or two, and thin shade up top where old burn scars have left the slopes exposed.

Who It's For

This is backcountry hiker terrain, not a casual stroll. Most people reach it while already deep in the high country — coming up from Little Yosemite Valley or over from the Sunrise/Cathedral area en route to Clouds Rest — rather than driving to a dedicated lot. If you're overnighting anywhere along this stretch, you'll need a Yosemite wilderness permit; day hikers passing through as part of a longer Clouds Rest route should carry a map, since junctions in this area aren't always well signed.

Water and Conditions

Creek crossings along the trail can run low or dry by late summer and fall, so don't count on a reliable refill here — carry in what you need from your last confirmed water source.