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37.8 km
~3 days
1551 m
Multi-Day
“Embark on the historic Hetchy Hetch Loop for breathtaking vistas and diverse wildlife encounters.”
The Hetchy Hetch Loop, spanning approximately 38 kilometers (about 23.6 miles) with an elevation gain of around 1500 meters (roughly 4921 feet), is a point-to-point trail located near Tuolumne County, California. This medium-difficulty hike offers a blend of scenic vistas, diverse ecosystems, and a glimpse into the area's rich history.
Getting to the Trailhead
To reach the trailhead, hikers can drive to the O'Shaughnessy Dam at Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, which serves as the starting point. The dam is accessible via Evergreen Road, which branches off from Highway 120, the Big Oak Flat Road. For those relying on public transportation, options are limited, but during the peak season, there may be shuttle services available from Yosemite Valley to Hetch Hetchy. It's advisable to check the latest schedules and availability before planning your trip.
The Trail Experience
As you embark on the Hetchy Hetch Loop, the trail will take you along the contours of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, providing stunning views of waterfalls, including the impressive Wapama Falls, which you'll encounter early in your hike. The trail continues through a variety of terrains, from oak woodlands to alpine meadows, and hikers should be prepared for the changing conditions.
Wildlife is abundant in the area, with opportunities to spot mule deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species. It's crucial to practice bear safety by storing food and scented items in bear-proof containers.
Historical Significance
The region holds historical significance, particularly due to the construction of the O'Shaughnessy Dam in the early 20th century, which was a controversial project that flooded the Hetch Hetchy Valley to provide water to San Francisco. The trail offers a chance to reflect on the environmental debates that have shaped conservation efforts in the United States.
Navigation and Preparation
Hikers should come well-prepared with adequate water, food, and layers for the changing weather conditions. Navigation can be managed with the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and trail information to keep you on the right path. It's also wise to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before setting out, as parts of the trail can become difficult to navigate after heavy rain or snow.
Landmarks and Points of Interest
Throughout the hike, you'll pass by several notable landmarks, including the aforementioned Wapama Falls, as well as Rancheria Falls, which is a great spot to rest and enjoy the serene environment. The trail reaches its highest elevation at Tiltill Valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains.
Remember to leave no trace and respect the natural environment throughout your journey on the Hetchy Hetch Loop, ensuring that this beautiful trail can be enjoyed by future generations of hikers.
What to expect?
Activity types
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Hetchy Hetch Loop and how hard is it to hike?
The Hetchy Hetch Loop is 37.79 km, or about 23.5 miles, with 1,551 meters of elevation gain, roughly 5,089 feet. That combination makes it a difficult multi-day route rather than a casual day hike, especially with the long climbs above Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and the sustained mileage between major landmarks.
Where does the Hetchy Hetch Loop start and where can you park for it?
The usual access point for the Hetchy Hetch Loop is the O'Shaughnessy Dam area at Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in Yosemite National Park. Parking is at the Hetch Hetchy trailhead area by the dam, and the approach is via Hetch Hetchy Road off Highway 120 near the Big Oak Flat Entrance. Midday weekend delays can happen when the lot fills.
Do you need a permit to backpack the Hetchy Hetch Loop overnight?
Yes. Because the Hetchy Hetch Loop is a multi-day backcountry trip in Yosemite, an overnight wilderness permit is required. For this area, Yosemite lists Beehive Meadows and Rancheria Falls among the relevant Hetch Hetchy trailheads, and wilderness regulations require camping at least four trail miles from Hetch Hetchy and at least one air mile from any road.
What waterfalls and landmarks are on the Hetchy Hetch Loop?
The route begins near O'Shaughnessy Dam and follows the Hetch Hetchy area where Wapama Fall and Tueeulala Fall are major early landmarks visible from the reservoir side. Yosemite also highlights the broader Hetch Hetchy loop country for features such as Rancheria Falls and Lake Vernon, which are among the best-known destinations on longer overnight circuits from this trailhead.
When is the best time of year to hike the Hetchy Hetch Loop?
Spring through fall is generally the most practical season for the Hetchy Hetch Loop. Hetch Hetchy is open year-round, but the road is only open from sunrise to sunset, and from November through March it can face temporary closures or chain requirements because of snow and ice. Spring usually brings the strongest waterfall flow at Wapama Fall and Tueeulala Fall.
Are dogs allowed on the Hetchy Hetch Loop in Yosemite?
No. The Hetchy Hetch Loop is inside Yosemite National Park, and dogs are not allowed on Yosemite hiking trails, wilderness trails, or in undeveloped areas. That means this route is not dog-friendly even though the trailhead is road-accessible at Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.
Can the Hetchy Hetch Loop be done as a day hike?
For most hikers, the Hetchy Hetch Loop is better planned as an overnight trip. At 37.79 km with 1,551 meters of climbing, it is a difficult route, and access is also shaped by Hetch Hetchy Road hours because day visitors must leave the area by sunset. Strong backpackers may cover big sections in a day, but the full loop is typically treated as a multi-day hike.
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