Wildcat Point

Wildcat Point is a 9,455-foot granite summit rising above the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne, and there's no trail to the top. Reaching it means leaving the Glen Aulin Trail behind for a genuine cross-country scramble over granite slabs, through a short cliff band, and up class 2-3 terrain — a route for experienced off-trail hikers, not a casual afternoon hike.

Getting There

Start on the trail from Tuolumne Meadows to Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp, then follow the river downstream before leaving the trail to climb the slabs on the canyon's north side. Expect class 2-3 scrambling, brushy sections, and stretches of exposed granite with no cairns or signage to guide you. This is a route best tackled by hikers comfortable with route-finding and off-trail travel, ideally as part of a longer Glen Aulin backcountry trip.

What You'll See

The reward is a summit view often compared to Clouds Rest's — except here the drop is into the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne instead of Tenaya Canyon, with the Tuolumne River threading through bare granite far below. Because the approach keeps most visitors away, the summit is usually empty.

Before You Go

• No maintained trail exists — carry a topographic map and know how to navigate off-trail.
• The scrambling includes exposed class 2-3 terrain; turn back if a section feels beyond your ability.
• Cell service is unreliable to nonexistent in this part of the high country.