Snow Creek Trail

Snow Creek Trail is the steepest maintained trail out of Yosemite Valley — a strenuous 9.4-mile round trip that gains 2,700 feet as it climbs out of Tenaya Canyon toward the rim. Most hikers need 6 to 7 hours. The route starts at the Mirror Lake Trailhead (shuttle stop #17) in eastern Yosemite Valley, following the Mirror Lake Trail for about a mile before branching onto Snow Creek Trail and beginning a punishing series of switchbacks.

What You'll See

The switchbacks open onto some of the best granite views in the park: Half Dome, the Quarter Domes, and Clouds Rest all come into view as you climb above Tenaya Canyon. After roughly 2.6 miles of steady ascent, a right-hand fork drops to a footbridge crossing Snow Creek itself — a natural turnaround point for day hikers, while the trail continues on toward Tioga Road and the high country for those going further.

Before You Go

• No water sources along the exposed switchback section — carry everything you'll need.
• Start early. Much of the climb faces open sun and heats up fast.
• The trail surface is loose sand and rock in places, hard on ankles and knees, especially on the way down.
• Rattlesnakes are present in this terrain — watch where you step and place your hands.
• The trail is a popular winter access route into the high country for backpackers; day hikers don't need a permit, but overnight travel requires a wilderness permit.