calipeaks.com

Eastern North Rim

Mariposa · Managed by Yosemite National Park (NPS) · Region: Yosemite National Park
Difficulty 39/100 · Moderatepoint to point#north-rim#half-dome-views#waterfalls#point-to-point
Distance
18.1 mi
Total gain
5,200 ft
Net gain
5,200 ft
Net loss
5,200 ft
Days
3
Permit
Required
Campfires
Campfires allowed seasonally

Overview

The Eastern North Rim crosses the Valley's northern skyline between the Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek trailheads: 18 miles of rim with a detour to Indian Rock's natural arch and face-on views of Half Dome from North Dome.

Highlights

  • Indian Rock's natural arch — a rare Yosemite landmark
  • Half Dome's north face from North Dome's edge
  • Waterfalls and forests along the rim
  • A shuttle-friendly point-to-point through the Valley's quiet north side

Logistics

  • Trailhead: Yosemite Falls or Snow Creek Trailhead · parking: Valley parking at Camp 4 or Mirror Lake; finish at the opposite trailhead
  • Water: Yosemite Creek and seasonal rim creeks; carry for dry stretches.
  • Resupply: None; the Valley provides services at either end.
  • Shuttle: Point-to-point — Valley shuttles connect the two trailheads.
  • Bear canister required.

Permits

  • Agency: Yosemite National Park (NPS)
  • Reserve or apply on nps.gov
  • Quota: Trailhead quota for the Yosemite Falls or Snow Creek entries applies; 60% reservable 24 weeks out, 40% seven days out.
  • Reservation window: Lottery-based advance reservations; remaining quota releases weekly.

Campfires & stove regulations

Campfires allowed seasonally. Campfires are allowed only in existing rings below 9,600 ft and can be banned during fire season. Current fire restrictions. Rules change with conditions — always confirm with the managing agency before your trip.

Best time to go

Best months: May, June, September, October.

Snow: Usually snow-free May through October.

Heat: The lower switchbacks are hot; the rim is exposed.

Bugs: Moderate in forest sections.

Weather forecast

Know before you go

  • 5,200 feet of climbing with exposed rim sections
  • Water is limited late in the season
  • Watch for lightning on the open rim

Sources & citations

Data compiled 2026 from public agency and reference sources. All descriptive text on this page is original; verify current conditions with the managing agency before your trip.

  1. Yosemite Valley Trails — Eastern North Rim. Yosemite National Park (National Park Service). https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/yosemite-valley-trails.htm. Accessed 2026-09-07. License: Public domain (US government work). 18.1-mile one-way route with 5,200 ft gain along the eastern north rim between the Yosemite Falls and Snow Creek trailheads.
  2. Wilderness Permits. Yosemite National Park (NPS). https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildpermits.htm. Accessed 2026-09-07. License: Public domain (US government work). Permit requirement, quotas, and reservation windows.
  3. Wilderness Regulations. Yosemite National Park (NPS). https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildregs.htm. Accessed 2026-09-07. License: Public domain (US government work). Campfire rules and bear canister requirement.