From its start this trail descends steeply to Mono Meadow, an area which is wet, particularly early to mid summer (be sure to stay on the trail, even if it is muddy). Shortly after leaving Mono Meadow, the trail passes through an unmarked clearing with views of the Clark Range, Mount Starr King, and Half Dome.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
round-trip
The first half of this hike gains little elevation; the second half gains about . As the trail rises it offers views of the Clark Range before eventually arriving at Ostrander Lake.
round-trip
This trail leads downhill to an old cabin built by John McGurk and a large meadow. Continue east (right) at the trail junction to get to Bridalveil Creek or continue west to a Dewey Point , which has a spectacular view of western Yosemite Valley.
round-trip
This relatively easy trail leads to the edge of Yosemite Valley. As the trail approaches Taft Point watch for fissures, which are deep cracks extending hundreds of feet downwards. The railed-in Taft Point offers a breathtaking view of Yosemite Valley, below.
round-trip
The Sentinel Dome trail is an easy hike that leads to the base of Sentinel Dome, where you can scramble up the granite slope of the dome (it is not especially steep on its northeast side). From the top, you have a spectacular 360° view of Yosemite Valley (including Yosemite, Vernal, and Nevada Falls) and parts of the high country. A loop including Taft Point is a nice addition, but the climb from Taft Point to the top of the dome goes up several hundred feet.
formerly Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area
Badger Pass is the oldest ski area in California, and offers both downhill and cross-country trails. For cross-country skiers the park offers over 350 mi of trails, with 90 mi of marked trails and 25 mi of groomed trails originating at Badger Pass. Downhill skiing options include ten runs at Badger Pass. The majority of these runs are for beginners and moderate skiers, so thrill seekers may wish to ski elsewhere. Both downhill and cross-country lessons are available. Due to NPS regulations in place to ensure the area remains as natural as possible, the Badger area has no artificially-lighted skiing and cannot make its own snow.
The only guide service licensed to operate in Yosemite, offering a range of options from daily 8:30AM climbing lessons for beginners through multi-day guided ascents of El Capitan for experienced climbers. Also offers rental camping and climbing gear.