Mono Meadow
A steep descent to a wet high-country meadow, with an optional continuation to views of the Clark Range, Mount Starr King and Half Dome.
Route overview
Descend steeply to Mono Meadow, optionally continue beyond the meadow for viewpoints, then climb back to Glacier Point Road.
Mono Meadow reverses the usual hiking pattern by descending first and saving its steepest effort for the return. The meadow can remain very wet through summer. Continuing beyond the meadow adds stronger mountain views but also increases time and effort.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Glacier Point Road, Yosemite National Park, California
- Distance
- 4.8 km round-trip
- Typical duration
- 2–3 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 275 m on return
- Best season
- July to October, while Glacier Point Road is open and the meadow crossing is manageable
- Trail type
- Out-and-back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No wilderness permit for a day hike
Safety context
Budget energy for the climb out; protect wet meadow habitat and prepare for mosquitoes and storms Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Budget energy for the climb out; protect wet meadow habitat and prepare for mosquitoes and storms
Highlights
Mono Meadow, Clark Range, Mount Starr King, Half Dome views
Why find a buddy
The downhill-first profile makes shared pacing and turnaround judgment useful
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.