Parsons Lodge and Soda Springs
A gentle high-country walk across Tuolumne Meadows to bubbling Soda Springs and historic Parsons Memorial Lodge.
Route overview
Follow the meadow trail to Soda Springs and Parsons Memorial Lodge, then return by the same route.
This mostly level walk combines scenery, geology and history. It crosses the broad meadow to naturally carbonated springs and Parsons Memorial Lodge, giving visitors a low-intensity alternative to Yosemite’s steeper high-country routes.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park, California
- Distance
- 2.3 km round-trip
- Typical duration
- 45–75 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- Mostly flat
- Best season
- July to October, when Tioga Road is open and trails are snow-free
- Trail type
- Out-and-back walk
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No wilderness permit for a day walk
Safety context
Remain on trail to protect sensitive meadow habitat; prepare for sun, wind and rapid weather changes Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Remain on trail to protect sensitive meadow habitat; prepare for sun, wind and rapid weather changes
Highlights
Tuolumne Meadows, Soda Springs, Parsons Memorial Lodge, Cathedral Range views
Why find a buddy
A low-risk introductory walk for new hiking partners to test pace and compatibility
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.