Pothole Dome, CA

This short hike takes visitors to the top of Pothole Dome, a 200-foot high granite dome at the west end of Tuolumne Meadows. Parking is available along the road, and the trail leads hikers around the meadow rather than the shorter route directly across it.


Numerous signs indicate that the meadow is an ecologically fragile environment and foot traffic across it is prohibited. Please observe the signage and protect this beautiful meadow.After getting around the meadow, the climb up the dome begins as soon as you feel comfortable. The farther you hike around the dome, the less steep the climb becomes. As you ascend the dome, the views across Tuolumne Meadows steadily increase. At the summit, you can see great views to the north and east, with the southern views blocked by the larger Fairview Dome immediately across Tioga Road.

This is an easy hike for all ages and skill levels and should be on the list for anybody who is driving through Tuolumne Meadows.

2013-07-25 chumley