- Take the Hetch Hetchy Road to explore a less-traveled section of Yosemite
- This 16-mile scenic route takes you to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
- Hike across the O’Shaughnessy Dam and learn some history of the area
- See some beautiful waterfalls cascading into the lake
- Throw in a line to catch some trout
Overview
Hetch Hetchy Reservoir Road is a great escape from the crowds when visiting Yosemite National Park, leading to some premiere outdoor recreational opportunities.
Driving Directions
Hetch Hetchy Road Yosemite can be reached by entering the park by way of the Big Oak Flat entrance, then turning onto Evergreen Road one mile west of the entrance station and, after 7.5 miles, continuing on Hetch Hetchy Road.
Although the road is open all year, it may close at times due to snowy conditions. Hours are the same at the entrance station and vary per season, but usually is open after 8 am.
Distance
Hetch Hetchy Drive is 16 miles long from Evergreen Road to the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir at the end.
Highlights
Yosemite Hetch Hetchy Road offers access to plenty of activities for the whole family.
- O’Shaughnessy Dam
This dam forms the reservoir you see today, flooding the valley with waters from the Tuolumne River. You can hike across the dam and enjoy some history by reading the interpretive signs along the way. - Wapama Falls, Tueeulala Falls and More
If you love waterfalls, this is the place for you. On a four-mile roundtrip hike, you can view Wapama Falls, cascading 1,200 feet into Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, as well as the Tueeulala Falls, falling a beautiful 880 feet to the lake waters. You can also continue on the trail to Rancheria Falls, a 13-mile out-and-back trek. - Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
In this area, you’ll catch some great brook, rainbow and brown trout. Fish from the shore on the reservoir or try just above the reservoir on the Tuolumne River for some of the best spots.
