May Lake to Snow Creek Trailhead
Trailhead · Yosemite corridor
May Lake to Snow Creek Trailhead sits at 8,593 feet in the Yosemite corridor, accessing a high-Sierra crossing between two drainages. Typically calmer than the exposed ridges above.
Wind channels through the saddle between May Lake and Snow Creek drainage, strongest in afternoon hours. Morning air is noticeably stiller; by 2 PM, gusts routinely exceed 12 mph. Cold persists even in early summer; the 30-day average temperature sits at 31 degrees Fahrenheit.
The 30-day average wind of 8 mph and average NoGo Score of 18 reflect spring conditions at this elevation: frequent freeze-thaw cycles and afternoon wind surges. The week ahead shows typical shoulder-season volatility. Check the chart below for daily wind and crowding patterns; mornings consistently favor access.
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About May Lake to Snow Creek Trailhead
May Lake to Snow Creek Trailhead occupies a saddle at 8,593 feet on the spine of the Yosemite corridor, reached via Highway 120 through Tenaya Lake. The trailhead sits roughly 20 miles east of Yosemite Valley and accesses a connector linking the May Lake drainage to Snow Creek watershed. Access requires Highway 120 to be open; this route is typically passable from late spring through early fall. Parking at the saddle is limited; arrive by mid-morning to secure a spot on weekends. The site sits above the tree line for much of the approach, exposing it to wind funnels that accelerate through the gap.
Spring and early summer bring the highest winds and coldest average temperatures at this elevation. The 30-day average wind of 8 mph masks afternoon gusts that peak around 25 mph, particularly on clear days when thermal contrast intensifies. Temperature swings are sharp; overnight freezes occur even in late spring, and the 30-day average of 31 degrees Fahrenheit reflects lingering snowpack and thin alpine air. Crowding remains light year-round, averaging 13 visitors per day across the rolling 30-day window. Late summer and early autumn see more stable conditions but also higher fire-season smoke; late September offers the best balance of cooler overnight temperatures, lighter afternoon wind, and clear visibility.
This trailhead suits experienced hikers comfortable with exposed terrain and rapidly changing weather. The route demands respect for altitude; acclimatization is necessary for visitors arriving from lower elevations. Pack layers that shed wind and cold; the difference between morning and afternoon comfort is often 20 degrees or more. Experienced alpinists and mountaineers use this crossing as a gateway to higher peaks and the Cathedral Range. The low crowding statistic reflects its technical nature and the commitment required; most casual visitors opt for lower, more protected corridors. Water sources are scarce at the saddle itself; plan to cache or carry sufficient supply.
Nearby alternatives include Tenaya Lake, a lower-elevation destination 20 minutes west that offers similar views with less wind exposure and warmer water. The Cathedral Range peaks accessed from this trailhead rival more famous Yosemite summits but see a fraction of the foot traffic. Visitors comfortable with the saddle's exposure often pair this crossing with High Sierra backpacking routes that descend toward the Tuolumne Meadows corridor. The elevation and exposure make this a strong choice for mid-summer visitors prioritizing solitude and technical terrain over accessibility.