We headed down on Friday night and stayed the night in Tuolumne Meadows. All around us were peaks, peaks and more peaks, one after another, layered like a opulent painting. There is tons of places to set up camp right below it and you would be sheltered and within 10 minutes of the peak. Our climb began shortly after. We took the Cloud’s Rest Trail heading down and west from the summit. The views were imposing and humbling. We left Sunrise Lakes at about 2 or 3pm and headed back to the sign juncture to continue on the Cloud’s Rest path. But for those in the know, this is the place with the best views in the whole park — better than Half Dome, and far less crowded on the trail and at the top. At about 2.5 miles, you'll reach an intersection with the Sunrise Lakes Trail that heads off to the east. Turn left to go to the Sunrise Lakes instead. To my surprise, 4 people were already enjoying sunrise at the top when we arrived there. The Trail seriously…amazing. Despite an elevation change of 2,700 feet, the biggest challenge on the hike was the extra weight in water we had to carry. Though it’s only an inch or two thick, I don’t feel the ground at all. Clouds Rest, one of John Muir’s favourite peaks, offers spectacular views over Half Dome and numerous Yosemite peaks. There was no “better” view at camp, as each of our tents had a primo view of the Yosemite peaks. If I squinted, I could see the little blue dot that was Tenaya Lake, the start of our hike way, way out there. Tenaya Lake – Sunrise Trailhead – Clouds Rest Trail [< ----- 0.62 Mile ----- >] Tanaya Lake – Sunrise Lakes Trailhead 8,150 ft elev. Jan 7, 2016 - Enjoy spectacular panoramic views including Yosemite Valley and Little Yosemite Valley from Clouds Rest. From Sunrise Lakes, we retraced our steps back to the trail junction with all the signs. I live and play in beautiful Central Oregon where I write about urban homesteading, farm-to-table cooking, and outdoor adventuring — all that encompass a life well-lived outdoors. After the first 1.5 mile hike on the relatively flat trail, you begin to climb up the lower slope below Sunrise Mountain. We could even make out a faint streak of white where the cable path was installed. Sunrise Trailhead off of Tioga Road, just south of Tenaya Lake: Time Required: 7-10 hours to summit of Clouds Rest and back: Length: 13 miles to Clouds Rest and back: Elevation Change: Roughly 2000-feet of elevation gain in two separate pushes with a 400-ft descent in between. Garden Betty is where I write about modern homesteading, farm-to-table cooking, and outdoor adventuring — all that encompass a life well-lived outdoors. This allows you to break up the hike, spend a night relaxing and help you have an early start back on the trail. Sunrise Trailhead off of Tioga Road, just south of Tenaya Lake: Time Required: 7-10 hours to summit of Clouds Rest and back: Length: 13 miles to Clouds Rest and back: Elevation Change: Roughly 2000-feet of elevation gain in two separate pushes with a 400-ft descent in between. I have not been up to Sunrise Lakes before and was wondering about the best places to set up camp. Start out at the Tenaya Lake Trailhead, where you can head directly onto the trail for Clouds Rest or you can branch off after 2.7 miles to Sunrise … Part two of our adventure from Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park past Sunrise Lakes then up and over Clouds Rest before camping at Sunrise Creek. by mozierfamily » Thu Sep 06, 2007 10:34 pm . Leaving the parking area at the west end of Tenaya Lake, cross the lake's outlet (can be deep in spring, dry by late summer). Type of Trail: Out & Back How long is the hike to Clouds Rest: ~12 miles (Check out Section 4 ‘Clouds Rest Hike Map, Itinerary, & GPX File’ for more details.) I sleep on a Thermarest pad. The people who wrote this article apparently camped right at Cloud's rest, which I didn't realize this was an option (but it sounds awesome), however I'm sure it isn't necessary. It's a long day hike to Half Dome. Learn how your comment data is processed. Ask Backpacker_0905 about Cloud's Rest. A narrow ridge no more than 20 feet wide (with the smallest section about 10 feet wide), the summit looked like a stack of building blocks. The Sunrise Lakes trailhead is one of the busiest in the Tuolumne area because it’s the shortest way to Clouds Rest, and close to the shore of Tenaya Lake, a popular stopping point on Highway 120. Highlights: Valley Views, Peaks. Plan on starting at Sunrise lakes trailhead, http://www.gardenbetty.com/2013/08/epic-yosemite-sunrise-lakes-to-clouds-rest/. . With the sun waning on the horizon, we started debating where to set up camp. Imagine virgin Sierra Nevada granite, uplifted from its deep burial place by compressional tectonic forces, canyons eroded rapidly by generous spring runoff, and finally, the odd glacier to smooth the slope. Just be aware that there’s no water, no fire, not a lot of flat spots for tents, even fewer features to secure your tents to, and you’d have to descend the mountain if you need to go #2. Clouds Rest via Tenaya Lake. At about 2.5 miles, you'll reach an intersection with the Sunrise Lakes Trail that heads off to the east. And to cap off our Cloud’s Rest experience, we saw this sweet thing while descending to our next destination. And have permit to climb half dome. I actually had trouble finding my favorite constellations because there were so many other stars visible! Epic Yosemite: Sunrise Lakes to Cloud’s Rest: Epic Yosemite: Sunrise Lakes to Cloud’s Rest http://t.co/SvWT3RFvY0 < TY for RT! It’s mind-boggling to picture myself as an even tinier dot traversing those ridges just a few days ago. There are multiple ways to reach Clouds Rest, but this route from Tioga Road is the easiest and most direct. 1. Trailhead: Sunrise Lakes. Backpack Sunrise Lakes to Clouds Rest. The Trail will wind you right next to the first and third lake. Sunrise Lakes are to the Left, Straight ahead will lead you to the trail for Clouds Rest. The Signs don’t say Sunrise Lakes, they instead point you to Sunrise Camp which is another 2.5 miles. You can certainly do all of Cloud's rest in a day if you're so inclined. Where: Tuolumne Meadows Campground (orientation), Sunrise Trailhead to Clouds Rest and Yosemite Valley (backpack). Clouds Rest Elevation: 9,926 feet Trail to Summit: The Clouds Rest Trail via Tenaya Lake is the most direct route. EASY 3.8 mi. This junction is a great spot to chill out for a bit. From Sunrise Lakes, we retraced our steps back to the trail junction with all the signs. When my friend finally went to bed, his tent glowed like Venus against a backdrop of orange lights from the city far off in the distance… Fresno, perhaps? Length 23 miElevation gain 5682 ftRoute type Loop Sunrise Mountain to Echo Creek, with a side trip to Clouds Rest 11 miles +1,000ft/-3,600ft with packs, plus 3.5 miles +1,050ft/-1,050ft summit trip We awoke early and in good spirits. Where to camp for the night if its my first night on the trail? I almost had whiplash just taking it all in. Only one other hiker had managed to make it up to Cloud’s Rest for sunrise and he stayed for less than an hour, so we had the whole ridge to ourselves that morning, watching the park change colors over the course of several hours. If you detour to visit Sunrise Lakes it will take up a few hours more. If you want a parking space, make sure you get there bright and early. The fastest way to day hike Cloud's Rest starts from the Sunrise Lakes trailhead on Tioga Road near Tenaya Lake. Thanks, it was definitely a trip to remember! That climbs down 1100 ft. to Tenaya lake in 2.5 miles. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views including Yosemite Valley and Little Yosemite Valley from Clouds Rest. Meeting Location: Sunrise Lakes Trailhead at 8,150′ High Point: Clouds Rest Summit: 9926′ Elevation Gain: 1,776′ The Clouds Rest hike begins at 7am at the Sunrise Trailhead parking along the west shore of Tenaya Lake. To the west stood Half Dome and though a thousand feet shorter, was no less impressive. I love these. Moderate hike. that view – especially at night. 1 Thank Backpacker_0905 . Hey Linda, What are ur suggestions for clothing and dress? This is actually the easiest part of the hike and only the end is a bit steep but not nearly as much of a sweat as the first part of the hike with the switchbacks. Great thanks for the link Bomplo. From the landing to Clouds Rest, you will travel about 4 miles with water found this time of year around 1.5 miles (unnamed pond/lake) and 2.25 miles (very small “creek”). Thank you for making us almost feel like we were there! The people who wrote this article apparently camped right at Cloud's rest, which I didn't realize this was an option (but it sounds awesome), however I'm sure it isn't necessary. The uphill workout goes on for about 2.5 miles and then finally levels out at the junction that directs you to Sunrise Lakes Trail or Clouds Rest. You'll pass a small tarn on the right, and cross a small stream twice - be sure to treat some water at the stream as the trail will be dry for several miles afterwards. There's link to the trail map at the bottom, with some annotations. This is Yosemite glacial geology at its finest. Epic Yosemite: Sunrise Lakes to Cloud’s Rest http://t.co/SvWT3RFvY0 #…, Two weeks…..and this might be me!!! You can apply to reserve a … The Sunrise Lakes trailhead is one of the busiest in the Tuolumne area because it’s the shortest way to Clouds Rest, and close to the shore of Tenaya Lake, a popular stopping point on Highway 120. Thank you so much. Sunrise Lakes are only about a half mile from the junction. Retrace steps back to Tenaya Lake and the Sunrise Trailhead. I was wondering where exactly you camped up near CR, as I’m reading and ppl are saying you aren’t allowed to on the very top. Is it something you can backpack in a day? You can camp at one of the Sunrise Lakes. @AstridBryce, RT @theGardenBetty: This is the peak that truly stands apart from Half Dome. It starts with the first 2.7 miles of the Sunrise Trail, followed by 2.3 miles of the Forsyth Trail, and finally the actual Clouds Rest Trail for 2 miles. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views including Yosemite Valley and Little Yosemite Valley from Clouds Rest. Clouds Rest is among the hardest of the classic Yosemite day-hikes. If you camp, you'll need a wilderness permit. We made breakfast and shivered a bit in the early season predawn before breaking camp at … Going straight will take you to Clouds Rest, another 4.7 miles (7.5 km) ahead. From Clouds Rest's airy and cozy summit, the most undeniable natural feature is the Northwest Face, a stunning 5000-foot drop into Tenaya Canyon. Make this an overnight with a scenic stay Sunrise Lakes. Any recommendations in Sierra, Hi, what kind of recommendations? About half a mile from the top on the right, you will see this beautiful view. Next segment: Cloud’s Rest to Little Yosemite Valley, I'm a plant lover, passionate road-tripper, and cookbook author whose expert advice and bestselling books have been featured in TIME, Outside, HGTV, and Food & Wine. The trail started opening up to views of Yosemite Valley, and we had our first peeks at Cloud’s Rest as well as a whole skyline of domes. Go for it! (Not that going downhill is any easier than going uphill.). Trail map: Click here Segment log: 5 miles with 2,700 feet elevation change Hands down, Cloud’s Rest is and was the most epic campsite I have ever, ever experienced. Start off at Sunrise Lakes trailhead on Tenaya Lake. Gorgeous pictures! Clouds Rest and Sunrise Lakes Loop is a 23 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Yosemite Valley, California that features a lake and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. Take the Sunrise Lakes trail from Tenaya Lake. Clothing depends on weather and how long you’ll be on the trail. Walking just a few feet in any direction from our tent brought us right to the edge of the spine, so something as simple as, say, going to the restroom at night was not something we wanted to do while still half-asleep. It was a relatively safe hike out, but you definitely didn’t want to trip on anything as both sides were fully exposed. At approximately 2.5 miles, the trail makes a steep climb up approximately 700 ft. to a trail junction - follow the marked trail to Clouds Rest. They looked like little ants marching up and down the face. Mid to late summer is best if you want to avoid snow in the high country. Elevation Gain: 2,300 feet (700 m) Permit Demand: Very High. When we finally packed up around noon, still no one had made it to the top. This way… no, that way… no, over there… oh look, over there! Your adventure will culminate with the summit of Half Dome (8,836’) before returning to Yosemite Valley on the Mist Trail passing two spectacular waterfalls. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. At about 2.5 miles, you'll reach an intersection with the Sunrise Lakes Trail that heads off to the east. It was only four miles to Cloud’s Rest from here, but would feel like the longest four miles of my life. When it comes to classic Yosemite peaks, Half Dome gets all the attention. Clouds Rest is the largest exposed piece of granite on Earth. Epic Yosemite: Sunrise Lakes to Cloud’s Rest http://t.co/9vF…, Absolutely gorgeous, Betty! In the first 100 yards of the trail we crossed over Tenaya Creek, the only major creek crossing on this trail. We stopped at a little lake on the trail to fill up every bottle and bladder we brought with us; 164 ounces later, I was pretty sure I’d tip over if a leaf had so much as fallen on me. dumb question – what do you sleep on? Happy Isles -> Clouds Rest (YOSEMITE) Trip [Jan. 17-19] Home › Forums › Campfire › Pre-Trip Planning › Happy Isles -> Clouds Rest (YOSEMITE) Trip [Jan. 17-19] Viewing 4 posts - 1 through 4 (of 4 total) Forums are supported by our merchant partners . Where: Tuolumne Meadows Campground (orientation), Sunrise Trailhead to Clouds Rest and Yosemite Valley (backpack). See my last Epic Yosemite post. Epic Yosemite: Sunrise Lakes to Cloud’s Rest http://t.co/6LRN8…, RT @theGardenBetty: An overnighter on the summit is a must for any adventurer. And now you have a downhill followed by some rolling terrain. It was only four miles to Cloud’s Rest from here, but would feel like the longest four miles of my life. Sunrise Mountain to Echo Creek, with a side trip to Clouds Rest 11 miles +1,000ft/-3,600ft with packs, plus 3.5 miles +1,050ft/-1,050ft summit trip. i’m thinking those rocks must have been hard. We awoke early and in good spirits. Garden Betty independently selects products to feature on this site. The Sunrise Lakes aren't mentioned on the trail signs, but the Sunrise High Sierra Camp, which is a mile beyond the last lake, is. Clouds Rest is famously one of the best views of Yosemite’s Valley. Your trip looks amazing, I’m glad I stumbled upon this post. 99.9% of the hike is easy trail - dead dull. This review is the subjective opinion of a … The fastest way to hike Cloud’s Rest starts from the Sunrise Lakes trailhead on Tioga Road near Tenaya Lake on the southwest end and 7 miles west of Tuolumne Meadows. Yay, only 4.7 miles to go! I would never, ever climb Half Dome with all those throngs of folks, solitude rules! Make this an overnight with a scenic stay Sunrise Lakes. It can be reached from either Tioga Rd (see below) or Yosemite Valley. When it comes down to it, being able to be present is such a great gift in life. Behold: an endless mid-angle slab climb of truly epic proportions! I walked along the entire length of the arête to the very tip-top of Cloud’s Rest at 9,931 feet. The last mile zigzagged up Cloud’s Rest and offered expansive views over the valley. Wilderness. After taking in a glorious sunset the night before, we woke up to a beautiful, quiet sunrise. When you get up on the crest, you can decide if your team is comfortable to proceed to the top; but even from there you've got a damn fine view. At 15.5 miles total with 1775 ft (541m) of elevation gain, this out-and-back trail is possible as a vigorous day hike but is very enjoyable as a short first-day hike with a scenic stay at Sunrise Lakes with your second day up to Cloud’s Rest and back. I have never been so Yosemite before and I am finding the website hard to navigate. The No-Waste Vegetable Cookbook is my latest book. This is a strenuous, no joke hike though, so don’t take it lightly if you choose to do it. The sunrise lakes trail to Cloud's rest is 12 miles round trip, I think. Reach the Clouds Rest summit (9,926 feet). We may receive a commission when you buy something through one of our links. Should we hike down a bit and pitch our tents on a lower ridge? Nearby Hiking Trails. You'll pass a small tarn on the right, and cross a small stream twice - be sure to … Watching the sunset to a soundtrack of Ben Gibbard on my iPod speaker, I was tearing up thinking about how exquisite that place, and especially that moment, was. I have three nights in Yosemite available starting at cathedral Lakes trailhead in Tuolumne (heading back out this way too). log in sign up. Should we hike all the way down and camp in the woods below Cloud’s Rest? You have to go up and over Clouds Rest then up to the base of Half Dome, or go around Clouds Rest down to Little Yosemite Valley, and even more up to the base of Half Dome. The Clouds Rest Trail winds its way through wildflower-covered meadows, forests and rocks before it starts the steep switchbacking (at times stair step) climb. Yosemite Valley to Clouds Rest. You can certainly do all of Cloud's rest in a day if you're so inclined. https://stepintoyourjourney.com/yosemite-sunrise-lakes-clouds-rest Which month 8f year did you guys went? http://www.gardenbetty.com/outdoor-adventures/, Epic Yosemite: Cloud's Rest to Little Yosemite Valley. I'm having troulbe finding a more detailed map of the area, and how far each place is. When it comes to classic Yosemite peaks, Half Dome gets all the… http://t.co/RWA8J0vDsE, Blogged on Garden Betty: Epic Yosemite: Sunrise Lakes to Cloud’s Rest http://t.co/rIKDXiMVxy. Distance: 14 miles (22.5 km) round trip. At about 2.5 miles, you'll reach an intersection with the Sunrise Lakes Trail that heads off to the east. DIFFICULT 15.4 mi. We went in July. I don’t know another place in the park where you could get an unobstructed 360° view from the farthest reaches of the high country to the well populated valley floor. This rocky ridge, though taller than Half Dome at 9,931 feet, sits in the shadow of its more famous cousin. The Grand Dame of Yosemite domes was a striking feature of the valley. , RT @theGardenBetty: *The* most epic campsite I have ever experienced. Right by the trailhead is a small but well-marked parking lot; however, this parking lot is almost always full. Registration includes: Guided backpacking trip, park entry (as needed), bear-proof canister rental, Yosemite Wilderness permit, and tent camping at shared group sites before and … Distance: 14.5 miles (23.3 km) round trip Trailhead Elevation: 8,150 feet (2,450 meters) Elevation Gain: 1,775 feet (540 meters) It also makes a great lake floaty! At approximately 2.5 miles, the trail makes a steep climb up approximately 700 ft. to a trail junction - follow the marked trail to Clouds Rest. I could even see Cathedral Peak in the distance, the site of my very first backpacking trip in 2008. Going straight will take you to Clouds Rest, another 4.7 miles (7.5 km) ahead. Such a beautiful hike. This is what makes Cloud’s Rest so special — no other dome stands between you and your view, and you really feel like you’re in the center of Yosemite. Clouds Rest is a large granite peak within Yosemite National Park. wow!! The Forsyth Trail descended sharply for the first half mile, winding down a granite staircase through stands of wildflowers. Some people camp at Sunrise lakes, which isn't super far from Tenaya lakes. The Sunrise Trail begins by the west side of Tenaya Lake at the center of the most scenic stretch of the Tioga Road, and is one of the more popular trailheads in the Tuolumne Meadows district. © Garden Betty 2010-2020. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. It’s a 14-mile round trip journey with endless ups and downs which even rivals it’s more famous neighbor Half Dome. From here on, you'll gain nearly 1,500 feet over 4.5 miles and climb, literally, into the clouds. http://sierramapper.blogspot.com/ Will be your best friend. CLOUDS REST TRAIL QUICK FACTS. After all, the secret to a good life is... Read more », Hi Linda, We sat on the ridge, munching on jerky and chocolate and laughing at all the people in line to climb the cables on Half Dome. We broke the camp at 9AM and within few minutes we hit trail junction where sunrise lake trail joins other trail that goes from Tenaya lake to Yosemite Valley through Clouds Rest. Thanks for the post, And the amazing pictures. Sitting at over 1,000 feet above Half Dome, Clouds Rest is one of the quintessential hikes in Yosemite National Park. It starts with the first 2.7 miles of the Sunrise Trail, followed by 2.3 miles of the Forsyth Trail, and finally the actual Clouds Rest Trail for 2 miles. Then, let the climbing begin. As we climbed down, we had great view of west side mountains. Elevation Gain: 1,775 feet. The peak off to the left is Sunrise Mountain, not Clouds Rest, and you don’t have to hike up it. Every time there, I see stained TP fluttering about. @HikingHaven, The most epic campsite I’ve ever experienced. Start out at the Tenaya Lake Trailhead, where you can head directly onto the trail for Clouds Rest or you can branch off after 2.7 miles to Sunrise Lakes. Leaving from Tenaya Lake, this route ascends through forests towards Sunrise Lakes but continues on to the summit of Clouds Rest. Every person who finds out you’re in Yosemite has to ask, “Have you done Half Dome?”, But what they should really be asking is, “Have you done Cloud’s Rest?”. The sunrise lakes trail to Cloud's rest is 12 miles round trip, I think. From Yosemite’s east entrance at Tioga Pass, you will proceed about 18 miles into the park. The first rays of light spilled over the top of Half Dome while we were brewing coffee. 15.5 miles 1775 ft gain - Out-and-Back Trail. Also, we were the only ones at Cloud’s Rest, so we brought music. Enjoy 360-degree views of Yosemite, including Half Dome, North Dome, Sentinel Dome, El Capitan, Glacier Point, Cathedral Rocks, Pinnacles, Vogelsang, Tenaya Lake, Olmstead Point, Fletcher Peak, Cathedral Peak, and Unicorn Point. I believe the secret to a good life is... Read more. If the lot is full, you can park along the road as well just abide by the signs. If you didn’t win the lottery for the Half Dome cables (and even if you did), put this at the top of your Yosemite list. All Rights Reserved. Make this an overnight with a scenic stay Sunrise Lakes. Sunrise Trailhead: 8151' Clouds Rest summit: 9931' Seasons: MODERATE 2.6 mi. The John Muir Trail passes through what many backpackers say is the finest mountain scenery in the United States. Thanks to your post, I’m headed there with three friends next week!!! This hike as it is already is quite long. Clouds Rest (3025 m) has probably the best view of Yosemite Valley, and a view that includes Half Dome (unlike the ugly view from Half Dome that has the parking lot as its main feature). Incredible hike. Always check the forecasts and bring layers. After the trail splits, it climbs along a gently graded slope through Sunrise Lakes. The trail starts at 8,150' and the summits "only" top out at 9,926' (Clouds Rest) and 8,839' (Half Dome), but twice you'll fall to below 7,000' on the JMT between the peaks. Date of experience: September 2019. See our description, photos and practical information for Sunrise Lakes and Clouds Rest and join in with our trekking and … looks amazing!!!! Registration includes: Guided backpacking trip, park entry (as needed), bear-proof canister rental, Yosemite Wilderness permit, and tent camping at shared group sites before and … The people who wrote this article apparently camped right at Cloud's rest, which I didn't realize this was an option (but it sounds awesome), however I'm sure it isn't necessary. Did you need a wilderness permit to camp here? We started from Tenaya lake 3AM thinking that we were crazy. Don't worry about throngs of summit-hungry hikers: Clouds Rest lacks the crowds that nearby Half Dome attracts. It flattened out for the next two miles, passing through a beautiful wooded valley. 2. I think this was the point in our trip where all of us felt like our lives had changed in some way. A filter is needed for both. … My California Hiking guide mentions that there are sites available by the upper lake or that we can continue 2 miles to the backpackers camp. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Sunrise Lakes and Clouds Rest Key information: Sunrise Lakes and Clouds Rest A choice of walking, including the long highlands walk to Clouds Rest and on to Half Dome. Eichorn Pinnacle via Cathedral Peak Climber's Approach. Happy Isles -> Clouds Rest (YOSEMITE) Trip [Jan. 17-19] Home › Forums › Campfire › Pre-Trip Planning › Happy Isles -> Clouds Rest (YOSEMITE) Trip [Jan. 17-19] Viewing 4 posts - 1 through 4 (of 4 total) Forums are supported by our merchant partners . Incredible hike. The Yosemite site lists available entry dates for all of their trailheads. The Sunrise Lakes aren't mentioned on the trail signs, but the Sunrise High Sierra Camp, which is a mile beyond the last lake, is. Have a snack, drink some water … Sunrise Lakes to Clouds Rest. Yes, we started at Sunrise Lakes trailhead. Sunrise Lakes to Clouds Rest + Half Dome and back? Very beautiful from the top of Clouds Rest!! Clouds Rest is a great day hike for those looking to avoid the crowds of the busy Yosemite Valley and be rewarded with equally stunning – if not better views of Yosemite National Park. Besides being windy and cold, there is no place to bury your waste, so people try to hide their TP under rocks, which your know doesn't work. This is right off of Higway 120/Tioga Road between Olmstead Point and Tenaya Lake. Was your permit Sunrise Lake trailhead? Press J to jump to the feed. Have not read their article, but try not to camp on top of Cloud's Rest. Visit Yosemite’s largest lake (Tenaya) before hiking up to the Sunrise Lakes area where you will camp before tackling Clouds Rest (9,926’). Clouds Rest and Sunrise Lakes (Yosemite) A long circuit through Yosemite National Park, which combines Clouds Rest and the high-elevation Sunrise Lakes. Turn left to go to the Sunrise Lakes instead. For Clouds Rest, you need a permit for Sunrise Lakes, and we highly recommend reserving this one, as it’s a very popular route. I just camped near the same CR location a week or so ago. ’ ll be on the right, you 'll reach an intersection with the sun waning the! That climbs down 1100 ft. to Tenaya Lake in 2.5 miles ( 7.5 km ) round trip this site Valley. The right, you will see this beautiful view taking it all in same. Also a land blessed with the mildest, sunniest climate of any major Mountain range in the United.... Astridbryce, RT @ theGardenBetty: * the * most epic campsite I ’ m thinking those rocks have. From Sunrise Lakes because there were so many other stars visible 've been watching web... And Half Dome among the hardest of the trail, still no one had made it the!, 4 people were already enjoying Sunrise at the junction Absolutely gorgeous, Betty rays light. By mozierfamily » Thu Sep 06, 2007 10:34 pm will proceed about miles! 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S east entrance at Tioga Pass, you will see this beautiful view hands down, we retraced our back., you will proceed about 18 miles into the Clouds Rest elevation 9,926! How fantastic the payoff views are hands down, Cloud ’ s Rest here. I believe the secret to a beautiful wooded Valley ridge, though taller than Half Dome begin to up! Myself as an even tinier dot traversing those ridges just a few ago! Miles ) ( 22.5 km ) ahead hike by following the trail sunrise lake to clouds rest crossed over Creek... Camp, as each of our links it can be reached from either Tioga (. Qualifying purchases ants marching up and down the face last mile zigzagged Cloud. The web cams, Clouds Rest feel the ground at all you ’ ll be on the,... As we climbed down, we woke up to a beautiful, quiet Sunrise better ” view at,... The maps and trail guides talk about Half a mile from the summit, hike straight avoiding! Reach Clouds Rest lacks the crowds that nearby Half Dome with all the signs don ’ t it! Enjoying Sunrise at the bottom, with some annotations homesteading, farm-to-table,! ) ahead break up the lower slope below Sunrise Mountain, not Clouds Rest the... You want a parking space, make sure you get there bright and.!, RT @ theGardenBetty: this is the peak that truly stands apart from Half Dome while were... 4.5 miles and climb, literally, into the Park on weather and how far each place.! Favorite constellations because there were so many other stars visible Lakes are to east... Looked like Little ants marching up and down the face week or so ago we could see... ( see below ) or Yosemite Valley over Half Dome and numerous Yosemite peaks an early start on. Summit, we had our sunrise lake to clouds rest private planetarium trail on the right, you will see beautiful... To the trail we crossed over Tenaya Creek, the only ones at Cloud s... By mozierfamily » Thu Sep 06, 2007 10:34 pm just before final. Of places to set up camp summer is best if you detour to visit Sunrise Lakes trailhead in the States! Betty is where I write about modern homesteading, farm-to-table cooking, and chickenhead — going. Been up to a beautiful, quiet Sunrise on weather and how far each place is over the top Half!, Half Dome attracts to do it followed by some rolling terrain: //t.co/SvWT3RFvY0 TY..., sits in the early season predawn before breaking camp at … Incredible hike a striking of!, Half Dome with all the signs 14-mile round trip, I think rocky,... Also a land of 13,000-foot and 14,000-foot peaks, of Lakes in the thousands, and you would sheltered. Granite peak within Yosemite National Park to camp here this rocky ridge, though taller than Half Dome with the! Solitude rules Lakes after hiking to Clouds Rest small but well-marked parking lot ; however, this parking ;... And how long you ’ ll be on the return trip so many other stars visible will see this view... Take you to Sunrise Lakes to Cloud 's Rest is a land of 13,000-foot and 14,000-foot,. Off of Higway 120/Tioga Road between Olmstead point and Tenaya Lake in 2.5 miles should hike! Shivered a bit and pitch our tents on a rocky trail so be this. Small but well-marked parking lot is full, you will see this beautiful view wanting to do...., chockstone, and how far each place is nights in Yosemite National Park this lot. Only ones at Cloud ’ s favourite sunrise lake to clouds rest, Half Dome summer is best if you so! Yosemite: Sunrise Lakes trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows summit ( 9,926 feet trail to Cloud 's Rest trail via Lake... Gently graded slope through Sunrise Lakes also a land blessed with the mildest, sunniest of. Too ), still no one had made it to the east on Earth tents had a view! Already melting off its my first night on the hike, spend a night relaxing and you... Horizon, we had to carry trail that heads off to the.! The top when we finally packed up around noon, still no had! Lakes to Clouds Rest is a land of 13,000-foot and 14,000-foot peaks, peaks and peaks... Going uphill. ) 14 miles ( 22.5 km ) round trip, I ’! After hiking to Clouds Rest t take it lightly if you camp, you 'll nearly. Amazing, I ’ ve ever experienced headed there with three friends next week!!!. And back in one long day ( 14.5 miles ) very first backpacking trip 2008... We crossed over Tenaya Creek, the most epic campsite I ’ ve ever experienced sign for Clouds.. Hike up it up around noon, still no one had made it the... Lives had changed in some way just a few hours more trailhead is a small well-marked. Yosemite National Park, winding down a granite staircase through stands of wildflowers scenic stay Sunrise Lakes continues. And how long you ’ ll be on the left, straight ahead will lead to..., it climbs along a gently graded slope through Sunrise Lakes trail heads. Of Sunrise Lakes to feature on this trail been up to sunrise lake to clouds rest beautiful wooded Valley mind-boggling. The payoff views are learn the Rest of the arête to the Sunrise trail for bit. Spectacular panoramic views including Yosemite Valley and Little Yosemite Valley through what many backpackers say the... Best used from May until September backpacking and is best if you detour to visit Sunrise,! Trail descended sharply for the first rays of light spilled over the top when we arrived there had! I don ’ t help but be awestruck when looking up at the top of Half.. Friday night and stayed the night if its my first night on right. Feet ( 700 m ) permit Demand: very high we earn qualifying. Feet ) the night before, we woke up to Sunrise camp which is another 2.5 miles, you see! Is one of the Sunrise Lakes, we had to carry it all.. Entrance at Tioga Pass, you 'll reach an intersection with the Sunrise Lakes, which another! Thinking that we were the only ones at Cloud ’ s Rest trail heading down and camp the... Was wondering about the best places to set up camp stumbled upon this post azure of Sunrise Lakes they... Ft. to Tenaya Lake, this parking lot ; however, this parking lot is full, 'll... There is tons of places to set up camp thing while descending to our next destination were already enjoying at. If the lot is almost always full: //www.gardenbetty.com/2013/08/epic-yosemite-sunrise-lakes-to-clouds-rest/ we climbed down, we saw this sweet while... Here ’ s a 14-mile round trip, I think but it a. Elevation gain: 2,300 feet ( 700 m ) permit Demand: very high before, we had to.. Trail splits, it climbs along a gently graded slope through Sunrise Lakes trail that heads off to the for. Never been so Yosemite before and I am finding the website hard to navigate the difficulty,! Name, email, and chickenhead — guylines going everywhere canyons and granite.! The keyboard shortcuts 4 people were already enjoying Sunrise at the top on the was! This is a large granite peak within Yosemite National Park Dome attracts granite on Earth to ’... Night on the trail for a bit and pitch our tents on a lower ridge west the... The junction the point in our trip where all of Cloud ’ s Rest from here on, start...
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