Even though Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass are closed to motorized vehicle traffic that doesn’t mean it’s closed to skiers. In fact, it’s some of the best cross country skiing in northern California but take note, it does take a bit of work to get there.
At 8 miles west of Tioga Pass the Tuolumne Meadows ski hut offers visitors willing to make the trek an adventure most visitors to Yosemite will never experience. Bring a tent and be prepared to sleep out though, the ski hut comfortably sleeps 10 and has been known to fill up. Should you be lucky enough to get to stay in the hut you can take comfort in knowing there’s a fully stocked wood burning stove complete with hatchet for splitting wood and electricity unless the lines should go down.
If you decide to go plan ahead and check the weather forecast before beginning your adventure. The closest route into Tuolumne Meadows is over 10,000 foot Tioga Pass from Lee Vining near Highway 395 (16 miles total). This is a 2 day trek for accomplished skiers so plan accordingly. Avalanche conditions may exists in some parts of the Park.
If you have any ski related questions call Tracey and Bruce (Tuolumne Meadows Winter Rangers) at (209) 372-0450. Please leave a clear message with a return number if there is no answer.