Vogelsang to Cathedral Loop

Vogelsang to Cathedral is a 34.4-mile high-country backpacking loop linking Vogelsang, Merced Lake, and Sunrise High Sierra Camps. It starts at the Rafferty Creek entry, follows the camp network south and west, then returns north through the Cathedral Lakes and Tuolumne Meadows trail corridor. The park publishes 33.3 miles and 4,550 feet of gain; this connected mapped line measures 34.4 miles. Treat the distance as approximate and confirm the route against the current wilderness map before setting out. Plan three or four hiking days; this is a serious high-elevation backpack, not a day hike.

The opening stretch follows the Lyell Fork through subalpine meadows, then climbs along Rafferty Creek toward Tuolumne Pass and Vogelsang High Sierra Camp. This is the loop’s first sustained ascent and carries the route into high, open terrain. The park’s trailhead table lists both Rafferty Creek and Cathedral Lakes as possible entry points, so match your planned direction to the trailhead on your permit.

From Vogelsang the route continues to Merced Lake, then turns north toward Sunrise High Sierra Camp and the Cathedral Lakes corridor before closing back at Rafferty Creek. Those three camps are the route’s defining waypoints. The exact route line is not published as a downloadable track, so check the park’s current wilderness map before relying on the mapped connector or planning camps.

An overnight wilderness permit is required, and the park lists high demand for this entry. Carry an allowed bear-resistant canister for food and scented items; hanging food is prohibited. Camping within a mile of a High Sierra Camp is restricted to designated sites. Pets are not allowed on Yosemite trails or in wilderness. For the Rafferty Creek start, use the Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center or Dog Lake parking as directed by the park. Tioga Road access is seasonal, and overnight parking on Tioga Road and its lots is prohibited beginning October 15.