Standing at an impressive 9,926 feet, Clouds Rest is one of Yosemite’s most thrilling and rewarding hikes.
Towering over 1,000 feet above Half Dome, it offers panoramic views of Yosemite Valley that are nothing short of breathtaking.
Unlike the iconic Half Dome hike, Clouds Rest doesn’t require a permit, and there are no nerve-wracking cables to navigate – just manageable climbing, beautiful scenery, and one epic adventure.
While there are several routes to reach it, the approach from Tioga Road is the most popular due to its shorter distance and direct path.
Whether you’re tackling Clouds Rest to check off a bucket-list adventure or seeking one of the best vantage points in the park, this epic hike delivers an exciting experience and unparalleled scenery.
This comprehensive guide is perfect for first-time adventurers eager to take on the incredible Clouds Rest hike.
I’ll cover everything you need to know, including directions, parking details, the best time to visit, essential tips, packing recommendations, and step-by-step trail directions.
This guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable experience!
Clouds Rest Hike: Overview
Starting Point: Sunrise Lakes Trailhead
Length: 12.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,100 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Hiking Time: 7 to 9 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pet-friendly? No
Hike Features: Two steep incline sections, creek crossing, a pond, the ridge, and Cloud Rest’s summit with unreal views of Yosemite’s iconic landmarks
The fastest route to Clouds Rest begins at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead off Tioga Road near Tenaya Lake.
This trail is a manageable day hike for experienced adventurers, with the highlight being the exhilarating scramble along a narrow ridge just before the summit.
With sheer drop-offs on either side (more so on one side), this section provides an unforgettable adrenaline rush, but the views from the top are worth it!
Yosemite Entrance Fee
Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free!
For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!
Reservations
A reservation is required to enter Yosemite National Park from 5 AM to 4 PM on some dates from April 13 through October 27, 2025.
- April 13 to June 30: weekends and holidays only
- July 1–August 16: daily
- August 17– October 27: weekends and holidays only
Directions and Parking
The Sunrise Lakes Trailhead is located on the west end of Tenaya Lake, just off Tioga Road (Highway 120) between Olmsted Point and the lake itself.
The trailhead sits 38 miles from the Big Oak Flat Entrance and 16 miles from the Tioga Pass Entrance.
🥾 Trip Planning Tip: Staying near the Big Oak Flat Entrance? Add Hetch Hetchy hikes to your Yosemite itinerary for an unforgettable adventure!
The Sunrise Lakes Trailhead offers basic amenities, including pit toilets, food storage lockers, and bear-proof trash bins, but note that there is no potable water available.
The parking area is a pull-in directly off Tioga Road, with a reasonable number of spaces.
However, it’s a popular spot for day hikers, backpackers, and those visiting Tenaya Lake, so the lot can fill up quickly.
Overflow parking is available along Tioga Road near the main trailhead parking area.
Clouds Rest Trail Map
Best Time to Hike the Clouds Rest Trail
My husband and I completed this hike for the first time in 2024.
It was early September, and we reached the trailhead around 7 AM.
The parking lot was about half full.
I think many of the vehicles in the lot were overnight backpackers because the trail was not too busy.
When we returned from our Clouds Rest adventure, the parking lot was jam packed!
If you want to avoid crowds, hike along a mostly-snow-free trail, and have good weather, the best time to complete the Clouds Rest hike would be late June and early October.
Let’s dive into the months a bit more and what to expect just in case you can’t hike this trail in June or October.
Seasonal Considerations
Late June to Early July:
Snow from the previous winter often lingers into early summer, but by late June, trails are usually clear, making this a great time to hike.
You’ll enjoy lush greenery and flowing streams from snowmelt.
✨ READ THIS: Best Yosemite Waterfall Hikes
July to August:
These months are the most popular for hiking due to warm weather and clear trail conditions.
Expect more crowds, especially on weekends.
Be aware of afternoon summer thunderstorms!
⚠️ Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
September to Early October:
This is an ideal time for those seeking fewer crowds (as compared to peak summer crowds) and cooler temperatures.
The weather is generally dry, and the crisp fall air makes for excellent hiking conditions.
However, be prepared for cooler mornings and evenings, and always check for early snowstorms in late September and October.
November to May:
Tioga Road will be closed during this period due to snow, so the other option is to start this hike from Yosemite Valley.
⚠️ There is a chance Tioga Road could be open in November and May (on rare occasions even in December). Check if the road is open or closed HERE.
However, only hike to the top of Clouds Rest if you are very experienced in navigating through snowy/icy conditions.
Be prepare with appropriate winter gear and a navigation system.
It can be extremely dangerous if icy conditions are present at the top of Clouds Rest!
🌷 Trip Planning Tip: While Tioga Road may be closed in May, you can still explore other incredible areas of Yosemite in May, such as Yosemite Valley, Hetch Hetchy, Wawona, and Mariposa Grove!
Best Time of Day
Morning:
Start your hike as early as possible to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, common in summer, and to enjoy cooler temperatures.
The early start also allows you to reach the summit before it gets crowded and provides spectacular morning light for the adventurous photographers.
Clouds Rest Hike Tips for First Timers
1. Check the Weather Forecast: Clouds Rest is exposed at the summit, making it dangerous in bad weather.
If thunderstorms are in the forecast, postpone your hike for another day.
2. Download Offline Maps: Following the Clouds Rest Trail is easy, but having offline maps downloaded on your phone can give you peace of mind.
3. Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
✨ READ THIS: 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors
4. Be Cautious on the Ridge: The final approach to Clouds Rest involves a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs.
While it’s not technically difficult, those with a fear of heights should proceed carefully.
5. Acclimate to the Elevation: At nearly 10,000 feet, Clouds Rest’s high elevation can make the hike significantly more challenging than similar distances at lower altitudes.
Take time to acclimate if you’re not used to hiking at high elevations.
Altitude sickness is a serious risk, and there have been instances where hikers needed evacuation due to severe symptoms.
Pay attention to your body, stay hydrated, and take breaks as needed.
6. Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Yosemite.
Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.
🐻 Note: bear spray is illegal in Yosemite!
7. Leave No Trace: Stay on the trail, pack out all trash, and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife. Help keep Yosemite National Park pristine for future hikers.
What to Bring
Must-haves for Yosemite
- Entrance Pass or America the Beautiful Pass
- Reservation (depending on time/day)
- A plan/itinerary with a backup plan in case things don’t go as planned
- Knowledge of the Leave No Trace principles
- Patience and kindness
Clothing and Gear
- Layers of clothing:
- Poncho or raincoat (waterproof top layer)
- Warm fleece or down jacket
- Lightweight jacket or long-sleeve shirt (lightweight, quick drying mid layer)
- Long-sleeve or short-sleeve shirt/tank top (moisture wicking base layer)
- A long-sleeve sun shirt helps reduce sun exposure and keeps bugs away!
- Waterproof hiking shoes or boots
- Moisture-wicking socks
- Warm hat and gloves
- Hiking backpack
- Trekking poles
- Mosquito repellant and head net (they can get pretty nasty in late spring and summer)
Pack the 10 Essentials
- Navigation – A map, compass, or GPS device to help you stay on course and find your way in unfamiliar terrain.
- Water – Sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.
- There are no reliable water sources along the trail, so make sure to pack plenty of water for this hike! Especially in the summer when it’s hot.
- Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
- First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
- Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
- Insulation – Extra layers of clothing (such as a jacket or fleece) to stay warm in changing weather conditions.
- Rain Gear and Emergency Shelter – A rain jacket or poncho and an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.
- Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency.
- Multi-tool or Knife – A versatile tool or knife to handle any tasks, from preparing food to making repairs.
- Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.
Clouds Rest from Tenaya Lake: Trail Directions
Sunrise Lakes Trailhead
Starting at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead, follow the Clouds Rest Trail.
Continue straight at the first two trail junctions to stay on the Clouds Rest Trail.
There will be a creek crossing at the beginning.
Depending on the season, you can easily rock hop, or you may have to get your feet wet.
The first 1.5 miles of this hike is relatively flat.
Savor the flatness because it’s about the get steep!
Clouds Rest Trail (hardest section)
Now the fun really begins.
Yes, I said fun. It’s all about your mindset!
On this section, you will start climbing uphill tackling several switchbacks along the Clouds Rest Trail.
This is the HARDEST part of the Clouds Rest hike.
It’s only about one mile, but you gain 1,000 feet of elevation.
Take your time, stay hydrated, and rest as needed.
Clouds Rest / Sunrise Lakes Junction
At the top of the first climb (2.5-mile mark), you will encounter the Clouds Rest and Sunrise Lakes junction.
Continue straight to stay on the Clouds Rest Trail.
Your legs will get a much needed break here as the trail descends for a bit.
You will go up and over a few small hills.
Don’t worry, it’s not nearly as steep as the first big hill.
✨ READ THIS: Best Tioga Pass Hikes for Adventure Lovers
Clouds Rest / Forsyth Trail Junction
At the next trail junction (4.5-mile mark), continue straight to stay on the Clouds Rest Trail.
The trail will start to ascend a bit steeply for about 0.5 miles then level out.
The 5.5-mile mark is the final push. You are almost there!
Clouds Rest Ridge
The trail will now follow a granite ridge which starts out wide and spacious.
You will reach a sign that says, “Clouds Rest Foot Trail”.
This is actually the fun part!
Unless you have an extreme fear of heights, then it may not be so fun.
Follow the ridge towards the summit.
I recommend staying towards the left side as the drop-off on that side is not as scary as on the right side.
There’s only one really narrow section but you can avoid that by following the trail to the left.
Either way, use caution and take your time. Don’t act crazy!
Clouds Rest Summit
Yay, you made it to the summit of Clouds Rest!
Take a long rest break and enjoy the views.
From the top you can see so many incredible landmarks, including Half Dome, El Capitan, Glacier Point, Mount Lyell, Tenaya Lake, and so much more.
To return to the trailhead, simply retrace your steps.
Congrats, you did it! 🥳
More things to do when visiting Tioga Pass:
- Hike to Cathedral Lakes
- Hike to Gaylor Lakes
- Find giant sequoia trees in Yosemite (Tuolumne and Merced Groves)
- Conquer Lembert Dome
Alternate Route: Clouds Rest from Yosemite Valley
Starting Point: Mist Trail / John Muir Trail Trailhead (also known as the Happy Isles Trailhead)
Length: 20 miles
Elevation Gain: 6,200 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Hiking Time: 11 to 13 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pet-friendly? No
Hiking to Clouds Rest from Yosemite Valley is a strenuous but incredibly rewarding adventure.
The journey begins at the Happy Isles Trailhead, following the iconic Mist Trail or the John Muir Trail past Vernal and Nevada Falls.
✨ READ THIS: Mist Trail vs John Muir Trail
From there, you continue ascending through Little Yosemite Valley, eventually merging with the trail coming from Tenaya Lake.
The trail is steep, covering approximately 20 miles roundtrip with over 6,000 feet of elevation gain, making it a challenge even for experienced hikers.
As you approach the summit, the final ridge narrows, offering thrilling exposure and dramatic views.
Once at the top, you’re greeted with a 360-degree panorama of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks, including Half Dome, Tenaya Canyon, and distant peaks of the Sierra Nevada.
This route to Clouds Rest is a great option if you didn’t win permits for Half Dome and want to tackle something similar.
FAQs: Clouds Rest Hike
Is Clouds Rest a hard hike?
Clouds Rest is a very challenging hike. The trail gains 3,100 feet in elevation over 12.5 miles, making it a strenuous but rewarding trek.
Do you need a permit to day hike Clouds Rest?
No, you do not need a permit to day hike Clouds Rest.
Where does the Clouds Rest Trail begin?
The most popular route for the Clouds Rest Trail begins at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead off Tioga Road.
How difficult is the Clouds Rest hike?
The Clouds Rest hike is considered a strenuous hike. It involves 12.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of over 3,100 feet.
Is Clouds Rest dangerous?
Clouds Rest is not dangerous but use caution when hiking along its ridge and be wary of the high altitude.
Conclusion
Hiking Clouds Rest is a truly rewarding adventure, offering a stunning combination of alpine forests, granite ridges, and one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Yosemite National Park.
Though the trail presents a challenging climb, the effort is well worth it as you stand atop the 9,926-foot summit, gazing out over Yosemite’s incredible beauty.
Be sure to start early, pack plenty of water, and savor every step – this is one hike that will leave you feeling accomplished.
If this guide inspires you to complete the Clouds Rest hike, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!
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