Another summer without the loop. What does it mean for the future of Yosemite’s most iconic backcountry experience?
Yosemite National Park and Aramark have announced that the High Sierra Camps will not reopen in 2025. This marks the fifth consecutive summer the full system of camps has been closed — a once-cherished experience now caught in limbo.
The decision, made in coordination with the National Park Service, stems from persistent utility failures, including the inability to supply potable water and functioning toilet systems. Without those services, the park has determined the camps can’t safely operate.
If you’re not familiar with the High Sierra Camps, they offered something truly special — a rare opportunity to hike deep into Yosemite’s high country without carrying a full backpack, with tent cabins, prepared meals, and rustic but welcoming accommodations at stunning locations like Glen Aulin, May Lake, Sunrise, Merced Lake, and Vogelsang.
The full five-night loop connected them all, starting and ending at Tuolumne Meadows Lodge.
So… what now?
For those of us who love exploring the Sierra, the continued closure of these camps hits differently. They’ve always been more than just a convenience. They were a gateway experience, especially for families, older hikers, or first-time backcountry travelers — and they’re deeply woven into Yosemite’s human history.
At Sierra Rec, we’re left wondering:
- Is this a temporary pause or the slow disappearance of a legacy?
- Will the loop ever return in its classic form?
- What would it mean for Yosemite if it doesn’t?
Our editor, Charlie, shares a personal reflection in our Summer Magazine 2025 out next week, including a look at the loop’s history, what makes it so memorable, and why its continued closure raises broader concerns about aging park infrastructure.
📌 Planning to Visit Anyway?
The route between Tuolumne Meadows, Glen Aulin, May Lake, and Sunrise is still accessible to hikers and backpackers — you just won’t find the services or cabins of the High Sierra Camps.
If you plan to hike this area, be prepared with:
✅ A wilderness permit
✅ Your own food and bear storage
✅ Knowledge of backcountry camping regulations
You can still walk in the footsteps of those who once spent cozy nights in canvas tents under the stars… just a little more self-reliant.
📣 Have you ever stayed at a High Sierra Camp? Or dreamed of doing the full loop?
Tell us your story — and join the conversation about whether we’ll ever see these camps open again.
#HighSierraCamps #YosemiteBackcountry #SierraRecMagazine #ExploreYosemite #DiscoverMoreSierra
Thanks for the update on the High Sierra Camps situation. With the camps closed for so many years now, what alternatives do you suggest for families who still want to experience Yosemite’s backcountry without heavy backpacks?
Elder,
Great question. There are so many great day hikes up there. Each of the High Sierra Camps , except maybe Merced, can easily be reached on a nice day hike. May lake is a two mile hike, Glen Aulin a 6 mile hike, Vogelsang is 6to 7 miles. Plus trails like Lyell canyon or Mono pass trail lead some amazing places with a little effort. For families I almost always suggest Cathedral Lakes day hike or Elizabeth lake day hike. There are a lot of options all dependent on level of hike you want. If I can further please let me know.
i used to work up in Yosemite in the 1990’s mostly up in Tuolumne Meadows in those summer months and let me tell you it was a great experience I worked up there so i can do some backpacking on my days off. My favorite High Sierra Camp is Glen Aulin. There is a waterfall right next to the campground called White cascade. The hike from Tuolumne Meadows is awesome you hike pretty much on the shores of the Tuolumne river. The scenery is breathtaking the whole way to Glen Aulin you will pass by Tuolumne Falls and its real close to Glen Aulin. Pass Glen Aulin the scenery gets better,about 3 to 4 miles from Glen Aulin is Waterwheel Falls where water spins backwards also Grand Canyon of The Tuolumne is breathtaking. I could tell you so much more of the other camps. But i would take up this whole page.