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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
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.
858 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
16.3 km
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.
5-7.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Beehive Meadow Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Beehive Meadow Trail is an amazing adventure in Hetch Hetchy that travels through diverse terrains. Cross the O’Shaughnessy Dam, wander through an eerie tunnel, and hike up the valley walls through lush meadowlands. This impressive trek is a must when in Yosemite National Park!

Route Description for Beehive Meadow Trail

The Beehive Meadow Trail is a great hike that exhibits the grandeur of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and the granite walls that bound the shimmering waters. Revel in the sights of the river valley, before heading up the walls into the lush meadowlands that are abundant with wildflowers in the summer months. Don’t forget to charge your camera, as the vistas along this trek are picture-perfect! Note: the National Park charges an entrance fee; check out the NPS website for additional information.

Embark on your adventure along the Beehive Meadow Trail from the O’Shaughnessy Dam Trailhead. From here, you will hike north over the dam to reveal wonderful views of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.

Continue hiking through the tunnel, which opens on the western side of the reservoir. Follow this path to the trail junction and turn left onto the Miguel Meadow Fire Road. This section of the route will track up several switchbacks and is sparsely shaded by pines. After ascending the route, you will turn right and hike into the meadowlands.

Follow this path through the Beehive Meadows to be exposed to wonderful panoramic vistas of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and the encompassing Sierra Nevada Mountains. You will arrive at the turnaround point when you reach the next intersection. After a quick rest, turn back and retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Beehive Meadow Trail Trailhead

The Beehive Meadow Trail departs from the O’Shaughnessy Dam Trailhead off Hetch Hetchy Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Backcountry Camping, Wilderness Permit Required.

  • When to do:

    April-October

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Beehive Meadow Trail Elevation Graph

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