Meadow Loop Day Hike

Wawona - Yosemite National Park

The Meadow Loop trail in Wawona follows a nearly level path around a large meadow, passing under a canopy of trees that in the autumn shower the path with brilliant fall color. The 3½-mile loop begins and ends at the Wawona Hotel, along the way offering views of the meadow, forest, and distant mountains.

Meadow Loop Trailhead

Although not the official starting place of the Meadow Loop, the hotel parking lot is the most popular spot to begin. Restrooms are available in back of the hotel. Water fountains are nearby. The Wawona Visitor Center near the hotel can be a good source of current conditions and trail information.

From the hotel cross the road and head directly up through the golf course. Signs soon point the way to the left along the Meadow Loop Trail.

Meadow Loop Trail

The Meadow Loop Trail follows a scenic fire road that circumvents the meadow. Nearly level the entire way, the loop is a wonderful place to relax and let your mind drift. In the spring the meadow is alive with wildflowers - Applegate's paintbrush, poppies, spider lupines, and others. Parts of the road were once paved, but have begun to return to nature. By the way, pets and bicycles are permitted on this trail.

The Meadow Loop Trail meanders through the trees on the south side of the meadow, with occasional views of the meadow, for about 1½ miles. Then it sweeps around the end of the meadow, crosses a small stream, and begins the return leg, eventually converging with and crossing Highway 41 near the hotel.