Tuolumne Meadows to Devils Postpile
On the John Muir Trail
One of the most scenic and enjoyable sections of the John Muir Trail leads from Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite to Devils Postpile near Reds Meadow and Mammoth Lakes. Cover the miles quickly in 2 days or enjoy a more leisurely journey with more time to appreciate the wonders of the trail. Experience incomparable scenery along Lyell Canyon, on top of Donohue Pass, and around Thousand Island Lake and Banner Peak. Be sure to carry a camera.
Camping possibilities begin after 4 miles out on the trail and are available at numerous places all the way to Devils Postpile. Plan to spend at least one night around Thousand Island Lake.
Lyell Canyon Campsite - Donohue Pass in Distance
Tuolumne to Devils Postpile - Key Facts
Location: Yosemite National Park and Ansel Adams Wilderness
Trailhead: Tuolumne Meadows, elevation 8,625 feet
Highest point on the trail: Donohue Pass, 11,056 feet
Devils Postpile elevation: 7,565 feet
Elevation Gain: ~4,100 feet (counting all ups)
Elevation Loss: ~5,200 feet (counting all downs)
Hiking Distance: 31 miles
Best seasons: Summer through fall
Wildlife
Notorious Yosemite bears won't be a problem as long as you use the required bear canister. Be especially vigilant about keeping food in your canister in Yosemite and around Thousand Island Lake. Deer are rare visitors along this heavily used trail, as are rattlesnakes.
Mosquitoes are especially annoying along Lyell Canyon in early summer. Plan your first night's camp in a dry and windy spot if you are hiking in July. By late August and through September mosquitoes are usually not a problem.
Have your camera ready to snap a picture of a marmot on Donohue Pass. Birders will likely spot Stellar Jays and Juncos. Unlikely sightings include Peregrine Falcons and Red-tailed Hawks.
