South Fork of the Tuolumne Trailhead

South Fork of the Tuolumne is trailhead #10 on Yosemite's official wilderness trailhead map, set along the stretch of Tioga Road between Crane Flat and Olmsted Point. It isn't a day-hike with a parking lot and trail signs — it's a wilderness access point for backpackers heading into the high country off Tioga Road's western section, used by a fraction of the hikers who pass through Yosemite's marquee trailheads.

Wilderness Permit Required

Overnight travel from this trailhead requires a Yosemite wilderness permit. The National Park Service sets a daily quota of 15 permits reservable in advance through the wilderness permit lottery (up to 24 weeks out), plus 10 permits reservable first-come, first-served starting about a week before your trip. There's no toilet at the trailhead, so plan accordingly. The closest wilderness permit station to this stretch of Tioga Road is the Big Oak Flat Information Station, near the park's Big Oak Flat entrance, open May through October with self-registration available outside that season.

What to Expect

This is genuine backcountry, not a maintained loop — expect route-finding, minimal signage, and little company once you're past the first mile. The NPS map groups it with neighboring access points like Tamarack Creek and Aspen Valley, part of the same quiet corridor along Tioga Road's western stretch. It suits hikers who already have a wilderness itinerary planned, not a first-time visitor looking for a casual walk.

Before You Go

Confirm current permit availability and reservation windows on the NPS wilderness permit page before you plan a trip — quotas, station hours, and reservation rules can shift from year to year.