Backpacking Hetch Hetchy Backcountry
Details
Entry: Rancheria Falls
Exit: Beehive Meadows
Night 1: Rancheria Falls
Night 2: Lake Vernon
Here’s what your trip will look like.
Day 1 – Friday, October 16
Hetch Hetchy Trailhead → Rancheria Falls
Distance: ~13.0 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,100–2,300 ft
Elevation Loss: ~1,200 ft
Highlights:
Cross O’Shaughnessy Dam
Tueeulala Falls
Wapama Falls
Hetch Hetchy Reservoir shoreline
Rancheria Creek
Camp at Rancheria Falls
This is your longest mileage day, but it’s also the easiest grade. The first half is mostly gentle, making it a great day to settle into the hike.
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Day 2 – Saturday, October 17
Rancheria Falls → Lake Vernon
Distance: ~7.5–8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,200–2,500 ft
Elevation Loss: ~700 ft
Highlights:
Climb away from Rancheria Creek
Forested trail
Granite benches
Lake Vernon
Sunset on the lake
This is the hardest day because most of the climbing happens here. Fortunately, it’s also your shortest mileage day, so you can take your time and enjoy Lake Vernon in the afternoon.
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Day 3 – Sunday, October 18
Lake Vernon → Beehive Meadows → Hetch Hetchy Trailhead
Distance: ~7.5–8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~900–1,100 ft
Elevation Loss: ~2,800–3,000 ft
Highlights:
Morning at Lake Vernon
Tiltill Valley
Beehive Meadows
Return to O’Shaughnessy Dam
**https://maps.app.goo.gl/pARVhrHibH5DdDGJ7?g_st=ic**
If you want to carpool from Paso let me know.
Participation in this activity is voluntary. By participating, you acknowledge that you assume all risks involved. The organizers are not responsible for any injuries, accidents, loss, or damages that may occur.