Sometimes, Yosemite’s most soul-stirring hikes don’t begin in the valley. They start high, stay quiet, and lead you to unexpected encounters with Half Dome, wildlife, and waterfalls the crowds will never see.
This loop from May Lake Trailhead to Mt. Watkins and Snow Creek is a lesser-known route that offers a unique perspective of Yosemite Valley from above—perfect for beginner backpackers or those looking to avoid the steep climb from Mirror Lake. I did this loop a couple years ago and still remember the sweeping views, the silence of the forest, and a surprise waterfall no guidebook ever mentioned.
Trail Snapshot
- Trailhead: May Lake Trailhead (off Tioga Road)
- Trail Type: Loop or point-to-point with optional descent to Yosemite Valley
- Distance: ~14–25 miles depending on route choices
- Elevation: Mostly high elevation with moderate descent to Snow Creek
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 2–3 days (overnight or weekend loop)
- Best Season: July to early October
- Family Friendly: For experienced teen hikers or first-time backpackers
Route Overview
- Start: May Lake Trailhead
- Hike south past the turnoff to May Lake and up to Mt. Watkins (~8,500 ft)
- Continue south to Snow Creek Junction (camp option here)
- Choose your adventure:
- Descend to Mirror Lake (steep switchbacks into Yosemite Valley)
- Climb to North Dome or Yosemite Point
- Loop back via Tioga Road near Porcupine Flat
Why We Love This Route
This route offers something most Yosemite hikes don’t: a quiet start, incredible views, and solitude with Half Dome in full frame. Mt. Watkins gives you that front-row look at the Yosemite Valley floor—without the crowds of Glacier Point or Sentinel Dome.
The descent into Snow Creek is like entering a different world. Thick with pine forest and wildlife, it’s lush, peaceful, and a great overnight camp spot. I saw deer, a bear and cub, and a symphony of birdsong echoing through the trees.
💧 Hidden Gem Alert: Just up the canyon from Snow Creek toward North Dome is a secret cascade—Porcupine Creek Falls—which many hikers miss. If you’ve got time, it’s worth the short detour.
Backpacking Itinerary Options
Option 1: Loop Trip (Recommended)
- Day 1: May Lake to Mt. Watkins and Snow Creek (~7–9 miles)
- Camp: Snow Creek Junction
- Day 2: Hike to North Dome → Porcupine Flat → return to May Lake or Tioga Road pick-up (~10–12 miles)
Option 2: One-Way Descent
- Start: May Lake Trailhead
- Finish: Mirror Lake / Yosemite Valley
- Note: You’ll need a shuttle car or ride back to Tioga Road
Trail Notes & Tips
- Water Access: Scarce early on day one; bring extra water
- Campsites: Best options at Snow Creek or North Dome Ridge. Water available at Snow Creek or Porcupine Creek.
- Sun Exposure: Mostly shaded; sunscreen optional except on Mt. Watkins
- Wildlife: Active zone—follow bear safety and food storage rules
- Permits: Required for overnight trips; reserve via Yosemite wilderness permits
🥾 Note: Most Snow Creek reviews focus on the brutal climb up from Mirror Lake. Starting from May Lake flips the script and makes this a beginner-friendly descent into the Yosemite backcountry.
What to Pack
- Water filter/purifier
- Bear canister (required)
- Bug spray (essential in mid-summer)
- Layers for elevation and overnight cold
- Grippy hiking shoes for rocky trail sections
- Small towel if you find Porcupine Creek waterfall
Scenic Highlights
- Mt. Watkins Overlook – Epic views of Half Dome from the north rim
- Snow Creek Forest – Lush forest floor camping with granite boulders and wildlife
- Porcupine Creek Falls – A secret reward for curious hikers
- North Dome Rim – Optional climb with full Yosemite Valley panorama
Wildlife Notes
This region is alive. there are abundant wildlife in this region with plenty of water and food sources, plus few visitors. On my trip, I saw:
- A mother bear and her cub foraging along the ridge
- Deer near Snow Creek junction
- Hawks soaring over Mt. Watkins
- Curious blue jays and songbirds in the forest
Always hike respectfully—carry bear spray, make noise in brushy sections, and use proper food storage.
Trail Logistics
- Parking: May Lake Trailhead (day-use and overnight allowed with permit)
- Trailhead Access: Tioga Road – May Lake turnoff ~5 miles west of Tenaya Lake – Alternative trail head off 120 above May Lake road.
- Bathrooms: Pit toilets at trailhead
- Cell Service: Limited to none—download offline maps and GPX files
- Map Source: Yosemite Wilderness Map (PDF)
Final Thoughts
If you want to experience the grandeur of Yosemite without the foot traffic, this loop is for you. It’s one of the park’s best-kept secrets, balancing quiet forest camping with dramatic valley views. Start high, travel light, and explore Yosemite’s lesser-known rim country.
📩 Planning to hike this route? We’d love to hear your story! Tag us #SierraRecMagazine or send your trail photos to info@sierrarecmagazine.com
