- Tioga Pass, in Yosemite National Park, is the highest automobile route in the Sierra Nevada
- Only 6 miles west of Tuolumne Meadows
- Usually open from late May to November
- Hike to Gaylor Lakes or all the way to Mount Dana
- Find many photo opportunities at Tioga Pass
Overview
Tioga Pass is a mountain pass in Yosemite (9,941 feet in elevation) where, besides breathtaking scenery, you will find a number of activities that are fun for the whole family.
Location & Information
Yosemite National Park’s Tioga Pass lies 6 miles west of Tuolumne Meadows on California Highway 120, also known as Tioga Road.
The pass is closed in winter due to heavy snowfall. It typically opens in late May and closes again in November, although these dates can vary each year depending on conditions.
Contact information:
Yosemite National Park
P.O. Box 577
Yosemite, CA 95389
209-372-0200
Activities
- Hiking
You will find a couple of trailheads begin at Tioga Pass. One will take you to Gaylor Lakes on a scenic 3-mile trek. There is also a strenuous trail to the summit of Mount Dana for those more experienced. - Photography
One of the best things about Tioga Pass is its incredible beauty. There are numerous photo opportunities with the surrounding peaks, wildflower-filled meadows and pine forests offering breathtaking landscapes. - Wildlife Watching
Many deer migrate to this area, seeming to know that hunting isn’t allowed within park boundaries. It’s a treat watching these creatures in their natural environment.
Fun Facts
Tioga is an Iroquois and Mohawk word that literally means, “where it forks.”
