Hetch Hetchy Reservoir: A Hidden Gem of California's Natural Beauty
Explore Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in California: a serene retreat with stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and rich history nestled in the Sierra Nevada.
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, Hetch Hetchy Reservoir offers breathtaking views, serene hiking trails, and a unique blend of nature and history for every visitor. Discover this tranquil oasis in California's wilderness.
A brief summary to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
- California, US
Local tips
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited in the area.
- Visit in the spring for the best views of the waterfalls at their fullest.
- Check road conditions before your visit, as some routes may be closed during winter.
- Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Bring a camera for stunning photo opportunities, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
Getting There
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Hiking
From Yosemite Village, start at the Yosemite Visitor Center. Head east on Southside Drive for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Northside Drive. Turn left onto Northside Drive, and continue for another 1.5 miles until you reach the Hetch Hetchy Entrance. The trailhead to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is located right at the entrance. Please remember that this hike can take several hours, so be prepared with water and snacks.
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Shuttle Bus
Begin your journey at the Yosemite Village shuttle stop. Board the shuttle heading towards the Hetch Hetchy area. The shuttle service operates seasonally, so check the shuttle schedule for times. Once you reach the Hetch Hetchy stop, follow the signs to the reservoir. The walk from the shuttle stop to the reservoir is approximately 0.5 miles and will take about 10-15 minutes.
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Biking
Rent a bike from one of the rental shops in Yosemite Village. Start by heading east on Southside Drive, then make a left onto Northside Drive. Continue for approximately 1.5 miles until you reach the Hetch Hetchy Entrance. From there, you can park your bike and walk the short distance to the reservoir. Always wear a helmet and be cautious of wildlife on the road.
Discover more about Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Yosemite Cemetery
25.7 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
25.8 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
25.8 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
26.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite's Tuolumne Meadows from Hanging Valley Viewpoint, where granite cliffs meet lush wilderness.
Yosemite Valley View
26.5 km
Experience the iconic Yosemite Valley from this easily accessible viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the Merced River.
El Capitan Picnic Area
26.5 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
The Ahwahnee
26.6 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur at the Ahwahnee Hotel, a historic landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a connection to the park's natural beauty.
Four Mile Trailhead
26.6 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Olmsted Point
26.7 km
Experience Yosemite's iconic views of Half Dome and Tenaya Lake from Olmsted Point, a roadside vista named for famed landscape architects.
Housekeeping Camp
26.8 km
Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging and stunning views in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
26.9 km
A scenic picnic spot in Yosemite Valley with stunning El Capitan views and Merced River access, perfect for a relaxing day in nature.
Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center
26.9 km
Discover Yosemite's past and the Sierra Club's legacy at this historic landmark, offering exhibits, a library, and conservation insights.
Cathedral Rocks
27.4 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Curry Village
27.5 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
Glacier Point
28.3 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur from Glacier Point: panoramic views, hiking trails, and unforgettable vistas await. Open seasonally by car.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wapama Falls
3.4 km
Hike to the base of the majestic Wapama Falls in Yosemite's Hetch Hetchy Valley for stunning views and a refreshing escape from the crowds.
Carlon Falls Trail
18.7 km
Explore the scenic beauty of Carlon Falls Trail in Groveland, CA, a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking adventure.
Yosemite National Park
19.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Yosemite National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Dead Giant Tunnel Tree
21.0 km
Walk through a giant sequoia's history in Yosemite's Tuolumne Grove. Experience the iconic Dead Giant Tunnel Tree and the beauty of the surrounding forest.
Tuolumne Grove
21.1 km
Experience the stunning beauty of ancient giant sequoias in Tuolumne Grove, a serene escape in California's Sierra Nevada for nature lovers and adventurers.
Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
23.4 km
Discover Yosemite: Camping, RVing, and outdoor adventures await at this family-friendly resort near Yosemite National Park in Groveland, CA.
Merced Grove
24.0 km
Discover Yosemite's tranquil side: Hike through serene forests to Merced Grove's majestic giant sequoias. A peaceful escape awaits!
Upper Yosemite Falls Trail
24.3 km
Explore the stunning Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, a breathtaking hike in Yosemite Valley offering unparalleled views and natural beauty.
Upper Yosemite Falls
24.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Falls, a majestic waterfall in Yosemite National Park, perfect for adventure and stunning vistas.
Upper Yosemite Fall
24.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Fall, a towering waterfall in Yosemite National Park, ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
Yosemite Falls
24.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls, a must-see natural wonder in Yosemite National Park, California.
Lower Yosemite Fall Vista Point
25.3 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a scenic spot in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Columbia Rock
25.3 km
Explore Columbia Rock: A Stunning Hiking Destination in Yosemite National Park with Breathtaking Views and Natural Beauty.
El Capitán
25.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of El Capitán, a granite monolith in Yosemite National Park that captivates adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
25.4 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Essential places to dine
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
11.6 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
20.0 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
The Mountain Room
25.7 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
25.8 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Loft at Degnan's
25.9 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
Village Grill
26.1 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
26.5 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Bar
26.6 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
27.5 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
27.5 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Seven Tents Pavilion
27.6 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
27.6 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
30.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
The Skiers Grill
32.5 km
Discover The Skiers Grill: A cozy dining gem in Badger Pass Ski Area offering hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches amidst Yosemite's stunning scenery.
June Bug Café
45.8 km
Discover the heart of American cuisine at June Bug Café in Midpines—where comfort food meets charming ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chevron
22.5 km
Experience Yosemite National Park with convenience at Chevron Gas Station, offering fuel and essentials for your adventure.
Yosemite Lakes Country Store
23.3 km
Discover Yosemite Lakes Country Store: your one-stop shop for camping gear, groceries, and local souvenirs in the heart of California's natural beauty.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
25.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park on two wheels with the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand, an ideal adventure for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
25.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Visitor Center
25.7 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Starbucks Yosemite
25.8 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Base Camp Eatery
25.8 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Degnan's Deli
25.9 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Village Store
26.0 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Yosemite Village Parking
26.3 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
26.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
26.6 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Housekeeping Camp Store
26.8 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
27.5 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
27.5 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
25.8 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
27.5 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
69.4 km
Discover unique cocktails and cozy lodging at Dry Creek Bar, a must-visit cocktail haven in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Tusks Bar
69.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
70.6 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
71.6 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
72.7 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Grizzly Bar, a cozy destination in Mammoth Lakes offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
73.7 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Shelter Distilling
73.7 km
Experience the artistry of craft distilling and brewing at Shelter Distilling, a unique restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
73.8 km
Discover the charm of Clocktower Cellar, a cozy bar and restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, offering fine wines, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere.
Mammoth Brewing Company
73.9 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
74.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Salsa's in Mammoth Lakes, offering a fantastic drink selection and lively atmosphere amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
74.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and lively sports atmosphere at Liberty Sports Bar and Grill in Mammoth Lakes.
Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
74.9 km
Discover Black Velvet Coffee Roaster, a delightful espresso bar in Mammoth Lakes offering artisanal coffees and exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
75.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Take It Off Entertainment
34.5 km
Discover the vibrant entertainment scene at Take It Off Entertainment, where unforgettable experiences and local culture collide.
The Alley
55.5 km
Discover The Alley in Mariposa: a cozy bar and lounge offering small plates, craft cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Snowline Country Bar
65.7 km
Discover the vibrant dining and nightlife experience at Snowline Country Bar, a hidden gem near Yosemite National Park.
El Palacio Night Club
97.6 km
Immerse yourself in the electrifying nightlife at El Palacio Night Club in Merced, California, where music, dance, and excitement await.
