Burro Pass out-and-back

This 50 mile out-and-back adventure takes hikers from Tuolumne Meadows to Burro Pass. Along the way you’ll enjoy stunning High Sierra scenery including granite domes, waterfalls, meadows and craggy peaks. You will need a permit, which is best reserved in advance via recreation.gov, but can also be obtained in person at Tuolumne Meadows. Bear canisters are also required.

The hike begins from the Glen Aulin Trailhead at Tuolumne Meadows. You’ll follow the Pacific Crest Trail as it travels alongside the beautiful Tuolumne Meadows and River, generally losing elevation.

At roughly the 5 mile mark you’ll come to Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp, a designated backcountry camping area with a great view of the White Cascade Waterfall.

From here the PCT leaves the Tuolumne River behind, passes through some lovely meadows, and climbs into the Yosemite Backcountry. You’ll pass Miller Lake (surprisingly the only lake on this hike) before descending to a junction at Matterhorn Canyon.

This is where you’ll leave the PCT (turn right) and follow Matterhorn Creek generally northward. For the next 6 miles the trail climbs up the canyon and ultimately comes to the much awaited destination: Burro Pass.

From the top of the pass you’ll have stunning views down Matterhorn Canyon (where you came from) and of the impressive high, rugged, Sierra peaks surrounding you.

After enjoying the view, return the way you came back to Tuolumne Meadows, unless you have plans to further continue your trek.