Tamarack Creek Trailhead

Tamarack Creek Trailhead sits off Tioga Road near Tamarack Flat Campground, about 20 miles from Yosemite Valley. It doesn't draw the crowds of the Valley trailheads, and that's the draw: a short out-and-back to the creek for an easy afternoon, or the start of a serious backcountry route that climbs toward the summit of El Capitan from behind.

The Short Hike

The out-and-back to Tamarack Creek runs about 5.3 miles round trip and is rated moderately challenging, with an average hiking time close to two hours. The route follows old road grade through forest for the first stretch before dropping down to the creek — straightforward walking, a solid option for stretching your legs on a Tioga Road day.

Backcountry Access

The National Park Service lists Tamarack Creek as an official trailhead for longer wilderness routes. From here, a demanding route climbs to the summit of El Capitan — roughly 22.4 miles round trip with about 4,251 feet of elevation gain, an overnight or multi-day trip rather than a day hike. Tamarack Creek also serves as one endpoint of the Yosemite North Rim Route, a point-to-point backpacking trip that starts across the park at Porcupine Creek Trailhead.

Good to Know

• The trailhead is reached via Tioga Road, roughly 45 minutes' drive from Yosemite Valley.
• Tamarack Flat Campground sits nearby, a convenient base before or after a longer trip.
• Longer routes from this trailhead are backcountry trips — plan permits, water, and navigation accordingly.