Walke Lake to Yosemite Loop

This ambitious 49.8-mile loop winds through the dramatic landscapes of the Ansel Adams Wilderness and Yosemite National Park, showcasing high alpine lakes, remote passes, granite basins, and quiet stretches of the Pacific Crest Trail. With sweeping views, creek crossings, and a mix of rugged and well-trodden trail, this multi-day loop is ideal for experienced backpackers looking to explore lesser-traveled terrain around the southeastern border of Yosemite.

Begin your journey at the Bloody Canyon Trailhead, located near Walker Lake in Inyo National Forest. The trail climbs through Bloody Canyon, passing glacially carved cliffs and vibrant wildflowers along the way as you approach the Sierra crest.

Cross into Yosemite National Park near the saddle by Mono Pass and continue clockwise heading south on the Alger Lakes Trail. The trail rolls past a series of peaceful lakes, with sweeping views of the surrounding ridgelines. You’ll then intersect the Rush Creek Trail, which you’ll follow briefly before reaching the junction with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).

Head north on the PCT through a long, beautiful stretch of classic Sierra granite. This portion offers open alpine views and quiet forested sections as you make your way toward Tuolumne Meadows. As you near civilization, leave the PCT via the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Trail, heading east toward Tioga Pass.

Skirt the northern edge of Yosemite along a trail that parallels Tioga Pass Road, eventually reaching the Lower Gaylor Lakes Trailhead. Cross Tioga Pass on foot to connect with the Dana Fork Trail, then head east toward the Mono/Parker Pass Trailhead. From there, cross Tioga Pass again and continue southeast on the Mono Pass Trail, climbing to Mono Pass before descending Bloody Canyon to retrace your steps back to the starting point.

Expect a mix of terrain—from rocky canyon climbs and alpine meadows to expansive granite basins. This loop offers rugged passes, quiet solitude, sparkling lakes, and sweeping Sierra views.

FLORA AND FAUNA
Lower elevations feature lodgepole and Jeffrey pine, while higher sections open into subalpine meadows filled with colorful wildflowers. Wildlife sightings may include marmots, pika, mule deer, and golden-mantled ground squirrels. Black bears are present, especially near Yosemite’s busier corridors. Birdlife includes Clark’s nutcrackers, mountain bluebirds, and occasionally peregrine falcons soaring above high ridges.

PERMITS
A wilderness permit is required for overnight trips and can be reserved from www.recreation.gov. SAFETY AND CONSIDERATIONS

• Water collected in the backcountry should be filtered/treated before consumption.

• Snow may linger on high passes well into early summer; be prepared for stream crossings and lingering patches of snow depending on the season.

• Expect long, exposed stretches —carry sun protection.

• Portions of the loop are remote and may require light off-trail navigation near junctions and crossovers around Tioga Pass. GPS and good maps are recommended.

• Bears are active in this region. Use a bear canister and store food properly.

• Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer; plan to be off high ridges by early afternoon.