In the northwest corner of Yosemite National Park lies one of its most spectacular, yet often overlooked, destinations: Hetch Hetchy. With towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, shimmering blue waters, and miles of scenic hiking trails, this peaceful valley offers a quieter way to experience Yosemite’s natural beauty. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring Hetch Hetchy’s history, or venturing into the Sierra Nevada wilderness, there’s plenty to discover beyond Yosemite’s most famous landmarks. Here’s your guide to visiting Hetch Hetchy in Yosemite National Park.
About Hetch Hetchy
Located along the Tuolumne River, Hetch Hetchy is a glacier-carved valley surrounded by soaring granite walls, forested slopes, and rugged mountain scenery. Often compared to Yosemite Valley for its dramatic landscape, Hetch Hetchy offers inspiring views with a fraction of the crowds, making it a rewarding addition to any Yosemite itinerary.
Brief History of Hetch Hetchy
Hetch Hetchy comes from the Miwok word hatchhatchie, meaning “edible grasses.” For thousands of years, Indigenous peoples lived in and traveled through this landscape of wildflower-filled meadows, towering trees, and the free-flowing Tuolumne River. The valley changed dramatically when O’Shaughnessy Dam was completed in 1923, creating Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, which supplies drinking water to millions of Bay Area residents today. While the landscape looks very different from what it once was, its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and surrounding wilderness remain a sight to see.
Getting to Hetch Hetchy
Hetch Hetchy sits about 38 miles (a 75- to 90-minute drive) from Yosemite Valley. To get there, follow Highway 120 toward the Big Oak Flat Entrance, then take Evergreen Road to Hetch Hetchy Road. The area has its own entrance station, and unlike most of Yosemite, Hetch Hetchy Road is open only from sunrise to sunset. No public transportation or park shuttle service goes to Hetch Hetchy, so you’ll need your own vehicle to explore this quieter corner of the park.
Discovering Yosemite’s Quieter Side
Hetch Hetchy reminds us that some of Yosemite’s most extraordinary experiences lie beyond its busiest viewpoints in Yosemite Valley. From the thunder of Wapama Falls to the quiet beauty of the reservoir and surrounding wilderness, this remarkable corner of the park invites you to slow down, explore, and discover something unforgettable.
At 3,900 feet, Hetch Hetchy enjoys one of the park’s longest hiking seasons. Spring brings roaring waterfalls and colorful wildflowers, fall offers cooler temperatures and peaceful trails, and summer means long, sunny days for exploring.
For hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike, Hetch Hetchy is well worth the detour.
What to See in Hetch Hetchy
From engineering landmarks to natural wonders, Hetch Hetchy has a number of unforgettable sights worth exploring.
O’Shaughnessy Dam
Standing 430 feet tall, this impressive dam offers a unique perspective on the valley’s history. Walk across the top for panoramic views of the reservoir, surrounding cliffs, and the steep canyon downstream. Because Hetch Hetchy Reservoir supplies drinking water, swimming, wading, and boating aren’t permitted. The upside? Its calm waters beautifully reflect the surrounding granite cliffs and mountain scenery.
Wapama Falls
One of Hetch Hetchy’s most spectacular sights, Wapama Falls tumbles down massive granite cliffs toward the reservoir. Visit during spring or early summer to experience its powerful flow and cooling mist.
Tueeulala Falls
This seasonal waterfall plunges dramatically from the cliffs above the reservoir. It’s especially beautiful during peak spring runoff and can be admired from the trail toward Wapama Falls, so you can see both on one hike.
Kolana Rock
Rising prominently above the reservoir, this massive granite formation is one of Hetch Hetchy’s defining landmarks and a memorable photo backdrop.
Hikes in Hetch Hetchy
Some of the best hikes in Hetch Hetchy trace the reservoir’s shoreline, while others climb into the surrounding wilderness for sweeping Sierra Nevada views.
Lookout Point Trail
Distance: 2 miles round trip | Difficulty: Moderate
Lookout Point Trail is short but extremely scenic. Starting near the Hetch Hetchy entrance, this hike climbs to a rocky overlook with sweeping valley views. With 680 feet of elevation change, it packs plenty of scenery.
Wapama Falls Trail
Distance: 5 miles round trip | Difficulty: Moderate
One of the most popular Hetch Hetchy hikes, the Wapama Falls Trail begins with a walk across O’Shaughnessy Dam and through a short granite tunnel. From there, the trail follows the shoreline for views of soaring cliffs, Tueeulala Falls, and the sparkling water below. The highlight is Wapama Falls, where footbridges bring you close to the cascades.
Rancheria Falls Trail
Distance: 13 miles round trip | Difficulty: Strenuous
For a longer adventure with about 2,000 feet of elevation gain, continue beyond Wapama Falls toward Rancheria Falls. This scenic trail follows the northern shoreline of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir for changing perspectives of the water, granite cliffs, and surrounding wilderness and includes a footbridge over Rancheria Creek. At Rancheria Falls, water tumbles over rocky terrain, providing a rewarding destination after the long trek.
Pro tip: Hetch Hetchy is only open during daylight hours, so start early and allow plenty of time to complete your hike. Overnight trips require a wilderness permit.
Poopenaut Valley Trail
Distance: 2.5 miles round trip | Difficulty: Strenuous
For a different perspective, head down into Poopenaut Valley, where the Tuolumne River winds through the landscape below the dam. This steep trail descends about 1,279 feet, making the return climb particularly demanding.
Smith Peak Trail
Distance: 13–16 miles round trip, depending on trailhead | Difficulty: Strenuous
Looking for a bigger mountain adventure? Smith Peak rises to 7,751 feet, and rewards determined hikers with outstanding views of Hetch Hetchy and Yosemite’s northern backcountry. With lots of elevation gain and miles of rugged terrain, this challenging hike is best suited to experienced adventurers.
Tips for Visiting Hetch Hetchy
Before setting out, keep these tips in mind:
- Check access hours: Hetch Hetchy Road is open from sunrise to sunset, and all day visitors must leave by sunset. Check with a ranger when you enter for the approximate time.
- Bring plenty of water: Trails can be hot and exposed, especially in summer, and facilities are limited to the main parking area and the area near the dam.
- Plan your transportation: Hetch Hetchy is accessible by car only, with no public transit service to this part of Yosemite.
- Protect the reservoir: Swimming, boating, and shoreline access are prohibited to preserve drinking water quality.
- Check conditions: Seasonal snow, waterfall runoff, and road closures can affect access. Review National Park Service updates before your adventure.
Where to Stay in Yosemite
Set on 85 acres of forested land, Under Canvas Yosemite offers upscale, safari-inspired glamping accommodations surrounded by the beauty of the Sierra Nevada. Enjoy café-style dining in the main lobby tent and unwind in inviting indoor and outdoor lounge areas furnished by West Elm. Just 10 minutes from Yosemite National Park’s Big Oak Flat Entrance, with a designated YARTS transportation stop, the camp is easily accessible from the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and Northern California. Spend your days exploring the park, then return to sleep under the stars in comfort and wake to sunlight filtering through the pines.