Hetch Hetchy Trailhead

Situated beside the O'Shaughnessy Dam in Yosemite National Park, the Hetch Hetchy Trailhead leads hikers along a pristine reservoir framed by towering granite domes. Popular routes take visitors through a rock tunnel and toward impressive cascades such as Wapama Falls and Tueeulala Falls. It provides a peaceful, less-congested alternative to the bustling sights of Yosemite Valley.

History

The Hetch Hetchy Valley was once a lush, beautiful glacial valley similar to Yosemite Valley. In the early 1900s, it was dammed to create a water supply for San Francisco, igniting a significant conservation debate that continues today.

Expert notes

• Start early in the day to avoid afternoon heat.
• Wear sturdy hiking boots for better grip on trails.
• Check weather conditions before your hike.
• Stay on marked trails to preserve the natural landscape.
• Bring a map or download offline maps for navigation.
• Carry bear spray as a precaution in bear country.
• Be respectful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
• Leave no trace: pack out what you pack in.
• Bring layers as temperatures can change quickly.
• Ensure you have enough water for the hike.