Wawona Trail: Mariposa Grove Hike to Wawona Point

About

The Wawona Trail is the Park Service's route from Mariposa Grove up to Wawona Point — a longer, quieter climb that most grove visitors never attempt. Where the short loops among the sequoias turn back after a mile or two, this trail keeps climbing out of the grove and up onto the ridge above Wawona, trading tour-bus crowds for solitude and a real payoff view.

Distance and Difficulty

Signed by the National Park Service as the Mariposa Grove Trail to Wawona Point, the round trip runs about 7.75 miles with roughly 1,200 feet of elevation gain. The NPS describes the tread as wide and relatively smooth, and most hikers plan on 4 to 6 hours round trip. Call it moderate rather than strenuous — steady climbing, nothing technical.

What You'll See

The route starts among the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove before switchbacking up out of the trees onto drier, more open slopes. At the top, Wawona Point opens into a wide view over the Wawona valley and the South Fork Merced River canyon, with the surrounding high country spread out beyond it.

Planning Your Hike

Trailhead: Mariposa Grove, a short drive north of Fish Camp on Highway 41.
Grove access often runs through a shuttle during the busy season — check current NPS shuttle and parking info before you go.
Carry your own water; there's none along the route once you leave the grove entrance area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Wawona Trail to Wawona Point?

It's about 7.75 miles round trip with roughly 1,200 feet of elevation gain, and the National Park Service estimates 4 to 6 hours for the full hike.

Where does the Wawona Trail start?

At Mariposa Grove, Yosemite's largest sequoia grove, a short drive north of Fish Camp off Highway 41.

Is the Wawona Trail crowded?

Not compared to the grove itself. Most visitors stick to the shorter loops among the sequoias, so the climb to Wawona Point sees far fewer people.

What's the view like at Wawona Point?

A wide, open panorama over the Wawona valley and the South Fork Merced River canyon, with the high country beyond — one of the better payoff views in this part of the park.