Re: Best hikes around TM

What are the best easy hikes around TM? We are first-timers. Thanks!!!

Pothole Dome trail to Toulumne River. Once at the River head and walk along the banks of the river. It's not really a long hike but the hike is scenic. Hang out and go for a swim.

Pothole should definitely not be overlooked. But what about this Puppy Dome? IIRC, pretty close to the campground.

I'd add Gaylor Lakes to this list, and Cathedral Lakes and pass.

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The trail from Chantry Flats to Sturtevant Falls has been a popular hike for those wanting to escape the urban sprawl of Los Angeles since the early 1900's. This is an easy hike and perfect for anyone new to hiking but be aware that the last 0.6 mile return to the parking lot is all uphill. From the Santa Anita exit of the 210 Freeway it's a 5 mile.
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West Fork Trail-the most popular trail on the Coconino National Forest

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redfox1939
The trail from Chantry Flats to Sturtevant Falls has been a popular hike for those wanting to escape the urban sprawl of Los Angeles since the early 1900's. This is an easy hike and perfect for anyone new to hiking but be aware that the last 0.6 mile return to the parking lot is all uphill. From the Santa Anita exit of the 210 Freeway it's a 5 mile.

Okay, I've done that hike a few times but I've never considered it to be anywhere near Tuolumne Meadows.

Don't forget the loop around Lembert Dome and to Dog Lake.

roger that

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eeek

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redfox1939
The trail from Chantry Flats to Sturtevant Falls has been a popular hike for those wanting to escape the urban sprawl of Los Angeles since the early 1900's. This is an easy hike and perfect for anyone new to hiking but be aware that the last 0.6 mile return to the parking lot is all uphill. From the Santa Anita exit of the 210 Freeway it's a 5 mile.

Okay, I've done that hike a few times but I've never considered it to be anywhere near Tuolumne Meadows.

That post is obvious spam!

The ruins of Bennetville, just outside the park boundary.

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calipidder
The ruins of Bennetville, just outside the park boundary.

I would agree as this is a nice hike with very little traffic and nice views of Mt Dana.

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calipidder
The ruins of Bennetville, just outside the park boundary.

Don't stop at Bennetville! Carry on up Mines Creek as far as you like - it's lovely country up there, great views of Dana, etc.

yosemitehikes.com is a handy reference:
http://www.yosemitehikes.com/hikes.htm

A short walk up the front of Lembert Dome has a great view. Cathedral Lakes is always great, but may be considered more of a moderate hike at 7 or 8 miles round trip. Elizabeth Lake is fairly short and nice. May Lake is very short and has great views.

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phantum

yosemitehikes.com is a handy reference:
http://www.yosemitehikes.com/hikes.htm

I have to question some of it's "Scenery Factor" ratings of the hikes on that website.

The Pothole Dome/Tuolumne River hike rated only three stars?

The Pohono Trail is rated four stars but the Sentinel Dome hike only rated three stars?

Lyell Canyon only a measly two stars?

Huh???

Cathedral lakes for sure, then maybe Lyell canyon, not to much gain for first half. Check out huge glacier...have you ever seen a glacier?

Its also a short hike on the trail to the top of Lembert and Dog Domes, its a bit of a climb but is short...here's some pics:





The Bennettville suggestion is good - higher altitude but pretty flat, short hike, ruins at the end.