Echo Ridge and Echo Peaks Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4.5-6.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.2 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
824 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Hiking the Echo Ridge and Echo Peaks Trail is an amazing adventure in Yosemite. Though demanding, this unique hike features lush woodlands and dramatic panoramas of the Sierra Nevada’s granite peaks, including Cathedral Peak. Get in a workout as you venture this scenic trail.

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Route Description for Echo Ridge and Echo Peaks Hike

The Echo Ridge and Echo Peaks Hike is an epic excursion that demands some stamina, but it is manageable by adventurers of most skill levels. Make your ascent through lush woodlands up to Echo Ridge and the Peaks, which deliver 360-degree panoramic views of the granite mountain range and the shimmering alpine lakes that sit below—be sure to charge your camera! Note: you will be traveling deep into the wilderness, so keep an eye out for wildlife and consider a bear bell to deter unwelcome encounters. Additionally, pack plenty of water and wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is rocky and uneven. Note the National Park charges an entrance fee, refer to the NPS website for the price list.

Embark on your adventure along the Echo Ridge and Echo Peaks Hike from the John Muir Trailhead off Tioga Pass Road. From here, hike southwest to an intersection, veer left, and you will be diverted onto the Cathedral Peak: Climber’s Approach Trail. Wander this path along the gurgling waters of Budd Creek through the mixed pine forests. At the next junction, keep left again, then take a right onto an unmarked, more primitive trail. Keeping an eye on your GPS, hike south up Echo Ridge before diverting east up to Echo Pass and Echo Peaks.

Take your time exploring Echo Peaks and make sure to revel in the granite landscape that surrounds you. Admire the up close and personal view of Cathedral Peak, then track the middle unmarked path back beneath the treeline. Again using the GPS, you will soon reconnect with the Cathedral Peak: Climber’s Approach Trail. From here, retrace your footing along the routes all the way back to the trailhead, marking the end of your adventure.

Getting to the Echo Ridge and Echo Peaks Hike Trailhead

The Echo Ridge and Echo Peaks Hike departs from the John Muir Trailhead off Tioga Pass Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Dispersed Backcountry Camping, Wilderness Permit Required.

  • When to do

    April-September

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Echo Ridge and Echo Peaks Hike Elevation Graph

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Echo Ridge and Echo Peaks Hike Reviews

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