Day Hikes in Wawona and Mariposa Grove

Wawona Meadow Loop

Wawona and the Mariposa Grove are located near Yosemite's South Entrance, about a one-hour drive from Yosemite Valley.

 

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Trails in Wawona

There is no drinking water available on trails. Drinking water is available from a fountain near the restrooms in the Wawona Store parking area.

Wawona Meadow Loop

Time 2–3 hours
Distance 3.5 miles (5.6 km) loop
Elevation gain mostly flat; uneven terrain
Starting point Wawona Hotel

Walk across the Wawona golf course on the paved road. Once across the golf course, take the first left onto the unpaved fire road that loops around the meadow. Enjoy wildflowers in spring and early summer. This is the only hiking trail in Yosemite where bicycles and leashed pets are allowed.

Swinging Bridge

Time 30 min
Distance 0.6 mi (1 km) round-trip
Elevation gain mostly flat
Starting point Swinging Bridge Trailhead (end of Forest Dr.)

Starting at the end of Forest Drive, hike 0.3-mi to a suspended footbridge and popular swimming hole on the South Fork Merced River.

Chilnualna Falls

Time 5–7 hours
Distance 8.2 mi (13 km) round-trip
Elevation gain 2,400 ft (732 m)
Starting point Chilnualna Falls Trailhead (near the end of Chilnualna Falls Rd.)

This very challenging trail follows cascading Chilnualna Creek, then climbs up a series of switchbacks with great views of the Wawona area. Enjoy waterfall views 0.25-mi from the trailhead. The falls are fullest in spring and early summer.

Alder Creek

Time 7–9 hours
Distance 12 mi (19 km) round-trip
Elevation gain 2,500 ft (760 m)
Starting point Alder Creek Trailhead (on Chilnualna Falls Rd.)

Follow this very challenging trail uphill through an open pine forest to the infrequently-visited 100-foot cascade. For a shorter hike (7.4 mi round-trip), begin at the Mosquito Creek Trailhead on Wawona Road.

 

Grizzly Giant Loop Trail

Trails in the Mariposa Grove

Trails begin at the Arrival Area & Trailhead. Free shuttle service from the parking area to the trailhead is available from late April to November, if conditions allow. Learn more about getting to the Mariposa Grove and check the shuttle schedule.

Drinking water is available ONLY at the parking area (year-round) and trailhead (summer only.)

Big Trees Loop Trail

Time 30–45 minutes
Distance 0.3 mi (0.5 m) round-trip
Elevation gain flat pavement, packed dirt, & boardwalk
Starting point Mariposa Grove Arrival Area & Trailhead
Winding through a forest with many giant sequoias, this trail features the Fallen Monarch and interpretive panels on the life and ecology of giant sequoias. This trail is wheelchair accessible.

Grizzly Giant Loop Trail

Time 1.5–2 hours
Distance 2 mi (3.2 km) round-trip
Elevation gain 300 ft (90 m)
Starting point Mariposa Grove Arrival Area & Trailhead
Hike past notable trees such as the Bachelor and Three Graces, the Grizzly Giant, and California Tunnel Tree. Visitors with a valid disability placard can drive as far as the Grizzly Giant parking area and enjoy this area of the grove via a section of trail that is wheelchair-accessible.

Guardians Loop Trail

Time 4–6 hours
Distance 6.5 mi (10.5 km) round-trip
Elevation gain 1,000 ft (300 m)
Starting point Mariposa Grove Arrival Area & Trailhead
Begin at Mariposa Grove Arrival Area & Trailhead. After hiking beyond the Grizzly Giant to the tranquil upper portion of the grove, a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) loop takes hikers past famous features such as the fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree, the Telescope Tree, and the Mariposa Grove Cabin.

Mariposa Grove Trail to Wawona Point

Time 4–6 hours
Distance 7.75 mi (12.4 km) round-trip
Elevation gain 1,200 ft (360 m)
Starting point Mariposa Grove Arrival Area & Trailhead
This wide and relatively smooth trail follows a route that people have used to access the grove for generations. On your way to the top of the grove, encounter famous sequoias such as the Bachelor and Three Graces, the Faithful Couple, and the Clothespin Tree. Continue to Wawona Point, an overlook with panoramic views.