Wawona Meadow Loop Trail

The Wawona Meadow Loop is a flat, easy walk on an old dirt road circling one of the larger meadows in Yosemite's southern end, directly across from the Wawona Hotel. At about 3.5 miles with only gentle elevation change, it's one of the quieter walks in the park and a solid choice for an easy morning before or after Mariposa Grove.

What to Expect on the Trail

The route follows a wide former road through ponderosa pine, incense-cedar, and California black oak woodland, with open views across the meadow itself. One shaded stretch of the loop is lined with mountain dogwoods, which bloom white in spring and add color to the woods in fall. Wildflowers — azalea, baby blue-eyes, poppy, lupine, and others — show up through late spring and early summer.

Dogs, Bikes, and Horses Welcome

Unlike most trails in Yosemite, the Wawona Meadow Loop allows leashed dogs, bikes, and horses, making it one of the more flexible options in the park for visitors traveling with pets or looking for an easy ride.

Getting There

The main trailhead sits directly across the road from the Wawona Hotel, with a small dirt parking area a short distance further along. The loop can be walked in either direction; most people go counterclockwise, though it makes no real difference either way.