Mono Pass
A high-elevation trail from Dana Meadows to Mono Pass, with views toward Mono Lake and the eastern Sierra.
Route overview
Climb from Dana Meadows to Mono Pass and return by the same trail.
Mono Pass follows an established high-country route toward Yosemite’s eastern boundary. The gradient is generally steady, but the pass elevation, open terrain and distance make weather, altitude and snow conditions central planning factors.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Dana Meadows, Yosemite National Park, California
- Distance
- 12.9 km round-trip
- Typical duration
- 5–7 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 300 m
- Best season
- July to October, subject to snow and Tioga Road access
- Trail type
- Out-and-back mountain-pass hike
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No wilderness permit for a day hike; overnight travel requires the correct wilderness permit
Safety context
Watch for altitude illness, lightning, snowfields, wind and sudden temperature drops Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Watch for altitude illness, lightning, snowfields, wind and sudden temperature drops
Highlights
Mono Pass, Mono Lake views, eastern Sierra, alpine meadows, historic route corridor
Why find a buddy
A partner improves altitude monitoring and decision making on exposed pass terrain
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.