Vogelsang Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
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.
5.5-7.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
23.2 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.
511 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Vogelsang Hike is an incredible adventure in Yosemite National Park. Boasting views of countless Sierra Nevada summits and shimmering alpine lakes, there is no shortage of scenery to admire. This picturesque trek is one of our favorites, and we think it could be one of yours too!

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Route Description for Vogelsang Hike

The Vogelsang Hike is a popular backpacking route in Yosemite, but it can also be enjoyed as a long and rewarding day-hike. Explore Yosemite’s high country and revel in the postcard-worthy panoramas of the alpine terrain. Though not necessary, a sturdy pair of footwear and trekking poles will prove useful as you navigate the rocky and, at times steep, trail. Note that much of the path is exposed, so be sure to keep an eye out for afternoon storms, check the forecast, and prepare accordingly! The National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional details.

Setting out from the Dog Lake Parking Lot, the Vogelsang Hike tracks south along the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #200 (PCT). Follow this path over Dana Fork and across the Twin Bridge over Lyell Fork. After crossing the creek, you will head east along the John Muir Trail/PCT until you reach an intersection with the Rafferty Creek Trail. Turn right here and hike south along the Rafferty Creek Trail, which hugs the curves of the babbling snowmelt stream. As you wander this meadow-cloaked path, you will be granted amazing views of the surrounding granite peaks.

Eventually, you will reach Tuolumne Pass and revel in the views of the granite oasis, before continuing south to the Vogelsang High Sierra Camp. Near Fletcher Lake, you will be granted amazing views of Vogelsang Peak to the south. To get back to the trailhead, simply backtrack along the same route.

Getting to the Vogelsang Hike Trailhead

The Vogelsang Hike departs from the Dog Lake Parking Lot off Tuolumne Meadows Lodge Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Vogelsang High Sierra Camp, Wilderness Permit Required.

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Vogelsang Hike Elevation Graph

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Vogelsang Hike Reviews

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