Pros & cons
PROS
- True solitude on a rarely traveled summit route
- Huge panoramas over Hetch Hetchy and Yosemite’s north country
CONS
- Faint, overgrown tread demands GPS and patience
- Hot, sun-exposed lower slopes make summer ascents strenuous
Access via Hetch Hetchy Road near the Hetch Hetchy/Mather Entrance area; park near the gate or campground as directed. Parking is restricted for security—rangers will direct you and issue overnight parking permits if applicable.
Low-use, overgrown trail with faint tread in meadows—download an offline GPS map and wear long pants. Expect sun exposure and heat on lower slopes, seasonal water, potential snow in late spring, and typical Sierra wildlife. Overnight permits must be picked up during wilderness center hours; no after-hours pickup.
Overview
Smith Peak rises above Hetch Hetchy in Yosemite’s remote north country, and the standard route is a challenging, low-traffic out-and-back. Expect about 12.8 miles total with roughly 3,533 feet of gain and a typical day taking around 7.5 hours. The payoff is a big, panoramic summit looking over Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and the rugged, less-visited northern Yosemite.
Trail Experience
From the Hetch Hetchy area, the route climbs steeply at first before easing into forests and broad meadows en route to the summit. The walking is mostly straightforward Class 1 trail, with a short, easy scramble near the top. Burn-scarred, shrubby stretches open up grand views as you gain elevation, and the meadows break up the climbing with quiet, scenic flats. On a calm day the summit feels wonderfully removed from Yosemite Valley’s bustle.
Navigation and Conditions
This is a low-use trail. Expect overgrowth, deadfall, and faint tread—especially across meadows where the path can seem to vanish. You’ll want an offline map/GPS and the patience to re-find the line after brushy sections. Long pants are smart; you may do light bushwhacking through thorny shrubs. The lower slopes are sunny and can run hot. Water is seasonal along the way—verify current sources and carry plenty. In late spring, lingering snow patches near the top aren’t unusual, and from late October to mid-April, winter conditions can prevail across most of the park.
Best Time to Hike
Generally May through October offers the best balance of snow-free travel and manageable heat, but it varies year to year. Start early for cooler temps and steadier shade on the climb, and to give yourself time for route-finding without rushing. Mosquitoes can bug the lower elevations in the warmer months.
Permits and Camping
Day hikers don’t need a wilderness permit. For backpacking, Yosemite requires wilderness permits year-round and uses a quota/reservation system. Reservations open up to 24 weeks in advance, with additional releases closer to the date. Fees apply per reservation and per person, they’re non-refundable, and payment is due within 48 hours of confirmation. Pick up permits at designated wilderness centers (generally 8am–5pm); there’s no after-hours pickup. Bear canisters/food storage are mandatory on overnight trips. Backpackers may use designated Backpackers Campgrounds the night before departure or after returning. Popular backcountry spots on this route include Cottonwood Meadows, Smith Meadows, and even flat areas near the summit—permit required.
Parking and Access
Access is via Hetch Hetchy Road; the signed Smith Meadows/Smith Peak access lies near the Hetch Hetchy/Mather Entrance area. Parking is limited and subject to security restrictions—rangers will direct you to the appropriate area and issue any required overnight parking permit. Pets are not allowed on this trail.
Who Will Love It
Strong hikers who enjoy solitude, big views, and a bit of route-finding. If you dislike brushy, faint trails or hot, exposed climbs, this one won’t be your favorite.
Elevation
12.8 mi · 7.4 hrWhere it starts
37.9262, -119.7951Wildlife on this trail
Near Smith Peak Trail
All places →All trails →
1.3 mi awayHetch Hetchy Backpackers CampgroundSimple pre/post-trip base beside Hetch Hetchy trailhead parkingCampground · Restroom
1.5 mi awayPoopenaut Valley TrailYosemite’s steepest trail to a wild Tuolumne River meadowChallenging · 2.5 mi · 3.5 hr
1.5 mi awayO’Shaughnessy DamHistoric dam with big Hetch Hetchy views and trailhead accessTrailhead · Parking
2.6 mi awayLookout PointQuiet Hetch Hetchy overlook via a short, steady climbTrailhead · Scenic Viewpoint
2.6 mi awayKolana RockGranite dome towering 2,000 feet above Hetch Hetchy ReservoirParking · Restroom
7.8 mi awayKibbie Ridge TrailGranite-rimmed lakes via a sun-baked ridge with big Cherry Creek viewsChallenging · 11.7 mi · 6 hr
8.7 mi awayCarlon Falls TrailShaded river stroll to a swim-friendly waterfall near Hwy 120Easy · 3.8 mi · 1.5 hr
10.9 mi awayLukens Lake TrailPeaceful subalpine lake and meadow, minus Yosemite’s crowds.Easy · 1.6 mi · 1 hr
