Rafferty Creek Trailhead

Trailhead

8,666 ft

Pet friendly - No

Accessibility - No

37.87653, -119.3455

This trailhead is a starting point for various trips in Yosemite National Park, from easy walks through the forest to a number of scenic hikes, including the iconic Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail. From here, hikers can reach many subalpine lakes in the vicinity, including Lake Bernice, Babcock Lake, Emeric Lake, Vogelsang Lake, and Boothe Lake, as well as enjoy beautiful Lyell Canyon and the Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River.

Area Map

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Address

Coordinates: 37.8765728, -119.3457460

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How to get there?

Public Transportation

Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Meadows Hikers Bus operates in the area from mid-June to early September. Reservations can be made at 888-413-8869.

From July to October, YARTS provides the daily bus service between Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite Valley with stops in Tuolumne Meadows.

Contact information (Address, phone, etc)

Yosemite National Park

Public Information Office

PO Box 577

Yosemite, CA 95389

Phone: (209) 372-0200

Season

The trailhead is accessible as long as Tioga Road is open, which depends on snow conditions.

Rules and Regulations

A Wilderness Permit is required for overnight camping in the Yosemite Wilderness. For more information, please see Yosemite National Park - Wilderness Permits.
Yosemite National Park charges entrance fees. As of 2023, they are $35 per car and $20 per person if entering on foot, by bike, or as a passenger on a non-commercial bus. Entrance tickets are valid for 7 consecutive days. America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Passes are also accepted.
Yosemite National Park lies in bear country, and storing food and other attractants in a bear-resistant manner is required by law. Hikers can use allowed storage containers or bear lockers, if available. Hanging food is not permitted.
Dogs are not allowed in the backcountry.

Additional Information

Facilities and Services

There’s a large parking lot at the trailhead and one more large parking area west of the trailhead. Although there is no water or restrooms here, you can find those at the Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center nearby.

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