Читать книгу 50 Best Short Hikes: Yosemite National Park and Vicinity онлайн

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Trail Use: Hiking

Distance & Configuration: 4.8-mile out-and-back

Elevation Range: 3,813 feet at the start, with a cumulative elevation change of ±600 feet

Facilities: Water and toilets are not located at the trailhead but instead along the road 0.3 mile before the dam. Stop briefly at a small parking area after a series of ranger cabins. Water and toilets are also present at the entrance to the backpacker campground, farther along the one-way loop road. There is even a drinking fountain on the dam.

Highlights: Impressive rock walls and body of water, as well as Kolana Rock’s striking form

DESCRIPTION

The nearly level walk to Wapama Falls is especially rewarding in spring, when the path is lined with wildflowers and Tueeulala and Wapama falls drench the trail. Year-round it is a scenic walk above the banks of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.

THE ROUTE

From the parking area, descend alongside the road to the dam. Turn left and cross the O’Shaughnessy Dam, stopping to read the excellent information placards and enjoy the view. The steep dome overshadowing the right shore of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is Kolana Rock. The gushes of water cascading down Wapama Falls to the east and the smaller Tueeulala Falls to the west (left) are impossible to miss in spring, while in fall Tueeulala will certainly be dry and Wapama Falls a distant trickle. Staring at the steep walls and narrow body of water is of course an unnatural vista, and as much as I wish that I were able to descend into Hetch Hetchy Valley as John Muir did, I find that the dark-blue reservoir and granite walls are a beautiful panorama.