Hiking to Clouds Rest in Yosemite National Park (2026 guide)

Didn’t get permits for Half Dome? Hike to Clouds Rest instead! This is an incredible and rewarding hike to breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra peaks. 😍

Sitting at 9,926 feet, Clouds Rest towers about 1,000 feet above Half Dome and doesn’t require climbing up scary cables. The most popular route begins from Tioga Road near Tenaya Lake.

It’s one of my favorite hikes in Yosemite! Actually, I personally enjoy the route starting from Yosemite Valley, but I’ll get more into that lesser-traveled path later.

This complete hiking guide covers everything you need to know about the Clouds Rest hike, including route options, trailhead location, parking details, the best times to visit, essential hiking tips, and more. 🙌

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Clouds Rest Trail Stats and Map

Clouds Rest is located in Yosemite’s high country but can easily be seen from Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point. It’s one of the best hikes in Tioga Pass and Tuolumne Meadows!

There are two routes you can take to complete the Clouds Rest hike. One begins from Tioga Road whereas the other starts from Yosemite Valley. The most popular route begins from Tioga Road, so this blog post will focus mostly on this route, but don’t worry, I will also discuss the route from Yosemite Valley as well!

Clouds Rest is a challenging hike no matter which route you take! Enjoy tackling tough hikes in Yosemite? Check out Mount Hoffmann, Mount Dana, and El Capitan.

Ok, let’s discuss the Clouds Rest hike in Yosemite National Park! 👇

Clouds Rest Trail Stats

Clouds Rest Trail Map

Yosemite National Park Entrance Fee and Reservations

Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 3-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, for U.S. residents, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!

FEE UPDATES! Beginning January 1, 2026, non-U.S. residents (without an annual pass) will pay a $100 per person in addition to the standard entrance fee. The Annual Pass for non-US residents will cost $250.

Reservations are not required this year. (updated July 8, 2026).

Clouds Rest Trailhead and Parking

The most popular route for hiking to Clouds Rest begins at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead, located at the west end of Tenaya Lake.

📍 Google Maps Location: Sunrise Lakes Trailhead

🅿️ Trailhead Parking: The parking area at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead has a decent amount of parking spots, however, they fill up fast! There are also some roadside parking spots as well.

🗺️ Distance to Trailhead: The Sunrise Lakes Trailhead is located 7.6 miles (12.2 km) west of Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center. The trailhead sits 39 miles (63 km) from the Big Oak Flat Entrance and 16 miles (25.7 km) from the Tioga Pass Entrance.

🚗 Parking Tips: The parking area at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead is fairly big but it’s a popular spot so parking can fill up fast. This lot shares parking for Clouds Rest, Tenaya Lake, and Sunrise Lakes, so get there early to snag a spot!

If the main parking lot is full as well as the roadside parking, you can drive a short distance down the road and you might be able to find parking at any of the parking lots or roadside pullouts at Tenaya Lake.

🚻 Facilities: You will find vault toilets and bear-proof lockers but no drinking water at the trailhead.

🚌 Shuttle Option: The Tuolumne Meadows Area Shuttle is running this season until September 13, 2026. It provides stops between Tuolumne Meadows Lodge and Olmsted Point approximately every 30 minutes. One of the stops is at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead where you can begin hiking to Clouds Rest.

Best Time to Hike the Clouds Rest Trail

🪻 Late June to Early July: Yosemite’s high country begins to come back to life with wildflowers starting to bloom and snowmelt filling streams and lakes. Patches of snow may still linger at higher elevations, so be prepared with the appropriate gear. Tioga Road may still be closed during this time, so check road conditions before heading out!

☀️ 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. And be aware of afternoon summer thunderstorms! If you’re on the summit of Clouds Rest and see dark storm clouds rolling in, get down immediately.

⚠️ 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. There is a chance it could be open in November and May (on rare occasions even in December) – check road conditions HERE.

Summiting Clouds Rest from the valley in winter should only be attempted by those who are experienced in winter mountaineering. It can be extremely dangerous due to icy conditions and risk of avalanches. Be prepared with appropriate winter gear, a navigation system and emergency items. Be smart and be safe!

Hiking to Clouds Rest from Tenaya Lake: Step-by-Step Directions

Clouds Rest Trail

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 (2.4 km) of this hike is relatively flat. Savor the flatness because it’s about the get steep!

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 1 mile (1.6 km), 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 / 4-km mark), you will reach the Clouds Rest-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.

Clouds Rest-Forsyth Trail Junction

At the next trail junction (4.5-mile / 7.2-km mark), continue straight to stay on the Clouds Rest Trail.

The trail will start to ascend a bit steeply for about 0.5 miles (0.8 km) then level out.

The 5.5-mile (8.9-km) 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! 🥳

Hiking to Clouds Rest from Yosemite Valley (alternate route)

Hiking to Clouds Rest from Yosemite Valley is a strenuous but incredibly rewarding adventure.

The journey begins at the Mist Trail / John Muir Trail Trailhead near Happy Isles. Follow the iconic Mist Trail (or the John Muir Trail) past Vernal and Nevada Falls.

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 (32.2 km) roundtrip with over 6,000 feet of elevation gain, making it a challenge even for experienced hikers.

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.

Tips for Hiking Clouds Rest in Yosemite National Park

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 with trail signs marking the right direction, but having offline maps downloaded on your phone can give you peace of mind.

3. Start Early: Avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.

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 prohibited in Yosemite National Park!

7. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.

What to Bring to Yosemite National Park

🎟️ Entrance Pass – You will need to purchase an entrance pass once you reach the entrance station or you can buy the America the Beautiful Pass ahead of time and use that for the entire year.

👚 Layers of Clothing (top) – Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece mid-layer, an insulated jacket, and an outer shell to protect you from the elements, such as rain and wind. You may not need all these layers, especially in the summer months, but it’s always best to be over-prepared!

Check out my favorite tops 👇

• Base layer: REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie (warm/mild conditions) and REI Co-op Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer (cooler conditions)
• Fleece mid layer: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
• Down mid layer: Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket
• Outer shell: In the summer I always pack a light windbreaker, such as the Cotopaxi Teca Crop Windbreaker or the RevolutionRace Unit Light Windbreaker. Make sure to also pack a waterproof rain jacket – I like the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket.

🩳 Hiking Shorts or Pants – Pack a comfortable, durable, and stretchy pair of hiking shorts or pants. Also think about what conditions you might run into, such as warm or cold temperatures, wind and/or rain, bugs, and overgrown trails.

Check out my favorite hiking bottoms 👇

• Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off Pants
• RevolutionRace Breezy Ankle Outdoor Pants
• Baleaf Fleece-Lined Jogger Pants
• RevolutionRace Summit Pocket Tights
• Revolution Race Hike & Dive Shorts

🥾 Hiking Footwear – Bring a good pair of hiking boots or shoes with good traction. If I’m not expecting to hike in too much mud or snow, my go-to hiking shoes are the Altra Lone Peak trail runners. They have a wide-toe box, 0 mm heel-to-toe drop, and MaxTrac rubber outsole. Plus, they’re lightweight and so comfy!

🧦 Socks – Moisture-wicking, quick-drying socks are the way to go. My favorite pair of hiking socks are Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks. Always pack an extra pair!

🎒 Day Pack – What you plan to do (sightseeing, hiking, etc.), determines what size pack you’ll need. Here is what I typically bring based on what I’m doing that day 👇

• Short walks and sightseeing: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Del Dia Hip Pack
• Short, easy to moderate day hikes: REI Co-op Flash 22L Pack
• Long, moderate to challenging day hikes: REI Co-op Trail 25L Pack or Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 24L Pack

🥢 Trekking Poles – Essential for stability, balance, and support when hiking trails, especially on tough, rocky, and uneven terrain. I use REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles and love them!

❄️ Microspikes – Bring a pair of microspikes if you’re visiting in the winter and you’re planning to hike along icy trails. They will give you good traction to avoid slipping! I use Black Diamond Access Spike Traction Device.

🦟 Mosquito/Bug Repellants – In the warmer months, be prepared for annoying gnats, mosquitoes, and flies. Wear long-sleeve clothing, a head net, and use bug spray.

🧤 Extra Warm Layers – If you expect cooler conditions or hiking to higher elevations, make sure to pack extra layers for added warmth, such as gloves, beanie, neck gaiter, and a light jacket.

🗺️ Navigation – Carry a physical topographic map, compass, a satellite messenger (or personal locator beacon), and download offline maps to help you stay on course, find your way in unfamiliar terrain, and call for help if needed.

🔦 Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.

💧 Water – Water bottles to carry sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.

🍕 Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.

😎 Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, even when it’s cloudy. Also, polarized sunglasses are important when it’s bright outside and to reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and roads.

🩹 First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.

🥶 Emergency Shelter – Pack 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. Along with matches, I also carry a multi-tool carabiner that has a fire starter, utility blade, screwdriver, and bottle opener.

🗡️ Multi-Tool and Repair Kit – A versatile tool/knife and repair kit to handle any task, from preparing food to making repairs.

💩 Waste Disposal Supplies – WAG bags, trowel, toilet paper, pee cloth, wipes, Ziploc bags – be sure to pack out everything!

Conclusion

Hiking to Clouds Rest in Yosemite National Park is truly one of the best adventures! The hike is very tough with a combination of elevation gain and altitude, but it’s worth it for the incredible views from the summit.

You will be at an elevation of nearly 10,000 feet. That’s even higher than Half Dome! It’s one of my favorite spots to eat lots of snacks. 😉

Be sure to start early, pace yourself, stay hydrated, and enjoy the journey. You will not regret adding this hike to your Tioga Pass itinerary.

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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