Gallery photos coming soon
Iron Creek Trail
A short, steep climb into Yosemite's quiet southern high country.
About
Iron Creek Trail is a short, steep push into the high country south of Yosemite Valley, in the wilderness backcountry above Fish Camp and Wawona. It's a point-to-point route covering 2.6 miles and climbing 1,277 feet, working between 6,009 and 7,252 feet in elevation — enough gain in a short distance that Hiking Project rates it Intermediate/Difficult, with an average grade of 9% and stretches as steep as 31%.
What to Expect
This isn't a frontcountry stroll with a paved lot and interpretive signs — it's a backcountry trail in the Yosemite Wilderness, the kind hikers use to link up longer routes through the park's quieter southern reaches rather than a standalone destination most day visitors stumble onto. Expect dirt tread, exposed sun on the steeper pitches, and a good chance of having the trail to yourself.
Planning Your Trip
- Distance: 2.6 miles, point-to-point
- Elevation gain: 1,277 feet (6,009–7,252 feet overall)
- Difficulty: Intermediate/Difficult
Because it sits deep in Yosemite's wilderness trail network, treat it as part of a bigger backcountry trip rather than a quick after-lunch hike. Day hiking doesn't require a permit, but any overnight stay along the way does — check current Yosemite wilderness permit requirements before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Iron Creek Trail and how much elevation does it gain?
It's a 2.6-mile point-to-point route with 1,277 feet of elevation gain, running between roughly 6,009 and 7,252 feet, according to Hiking Project trail data.
How hard is Iron Creek Trail?
It's rated Intermediate/Difficult, with an average grade of about 9% and pitches as steep as 31% — a real climb packed into a short distance.
Is Iron Creek Trail close to Fish Camp?
It sits up in Yosemite's southern wilderness backcountry, inland from the Fish Camp and Wawona area rather than right off the highway — plan on it as part of a backcountry trip, not a quick roadside stop.
Do I need a permit to hike Iron Creek Trail?
Day hiking doesn't require a permit, but any overnight stay in Yosemite's wilderness does — check the park's current wilderness permit requirements before you head out.
Reviews
See all on GoogleNo reviews yet for this listing.