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McGurk Meadow Trail
An easy 1.6-mile walk to a wildflower meadow and a sheepherder's cabin
About
McGurk Meadow is one of the easiest, most rewarding short hikes off Glacier Point Road — a mostly downhill walk to a wide sub-alpine meadow and the weathered log cabin that once belonged to sheepherder John McGurk. It's a natural add-on for anyone already driving out toward Glacier Point or Sentinel Dome, with none of the crowds or exposure of the park's marquee hikes.
Trail Details
- Distance: 1.6 miles round-trip to the meadow, with about 150 ft of elevation gain on the return
- Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Trailhead: A marked pullout on Glacier Point Road, about 7.5 miles from the Wawona Road junction, with roadside parking and a vault toilet
- Season: Only reachable when Glacier Point Road is open, typically late May through October or November
What You'll See
The trail drops gently through forest to the meadow's edge, where McGurk's old cabin still stands just off the path. Wildflowers peak in early summer, especially through July, when the meadow fills with color. Dogs and bikes aren't permitted on this trail.
Beyond the Cabin
Hikers wanting more can continue about another mile past the meadow to a junction with the Pohono Trail. Head west and you'll reach Dewey Point, a cliff-edge overlook with sweeping views down into Yosemite Valley; head east and the trail continues toward Bridalveil Creek.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the McGurk Meadow hike?
It's 1.6 miles round-trip to the meadow itself, with about 150 ft of elevation gain on the way back, and takes most hikers 1 to 1.5 hours.
When can I access the McGurk Meadow trailhead?
The trailhead sits on Glacier Point Road, which is only open (and plowed) roughly from late May through October or November — outside that window the road is closed and the trailhead isn't reachable by car.
Can I extend the hike past the meadow?
Yes. About a mile beyond the meadow the trail meets the Pohono Trail, where you can head west to the Dewey Point overlook above Yosemite Valley or east toward Bridalveil Creek.
Are dogs or bikes allowed on this trail?
No, dogs and bicycles are not permitted on the McGurk Meadow Trail.
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