McGurk Meadow Trailhead
Trailhead · Yosemite corridor
McGurk Meadow Trailhead sits at 7,113 feet in the Yosemite corridor, a quiet subalpine gateway favored by hikers seeking solitude over the crowded Valley floor.
Mornings are calm and cool; wind builds steadily from midday onward, averaging 7 mph over the last month but gusting to 17 mph by afternoon. Typical temperature hovers near 41 degrees. Crowds remain light, rarely exceeding 15 people per day.
Over the past 30 days, McGurk Meadow Trailhead averaged a NoGo Score of 16 with an average wind of 7 mph and temperatures around 41 degrees. The week ahead mirrors that pattern; expect calm early mornings and afternoon wind picks, with no major swings in crowding or stability.
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About McGurk Meadow Trailhead
McGurk Meadow Trailhead lies on the eastern side of Yosemite, accessed via Highway 120 through the park's high country corridor. The trailhead itself sits just above the Tuolumne Meadows region at 7,113 feet elevation, roughly 90 minutes from the Valley by car. Parking is limited but rarely fills; the low base popularity of 0.4 reflects its isolation from main tourist routes. The gate closure of Highway 120 in winter and early spring makes this a late spring through early fall destination.
Spring and early summer bring snow melt runoff and exposed wet terrain; by late September, trails dry and views open fully. Winter closes the highway entirely, making the trailhead inaccessible October through May most years. The 30-day average temperature of 41 degrees reflects current shoulder-season conditions; expect ranges from 7 degrees on winter nights to 62 degrees on midsummer afternoons across the full year. Winds average 7 mph but frequently exceed 10 mph by 2 pm, and max winds reach 17 mph during typical afternoon thermals.
This trailhead suits hikers who value quiet over crowds and can tolerate early-morning cold and afternoon wind. Meadow walks and subalpine wildflower viewing are primary draws. Most visitors head out before 9 am to avoid afternoon gusts and maximize photographic light. Parking and facilities are basic; bring layers, sunscreen, and water. The low crowding average of 14 people keeps trails open and views uncluttered, making it ideal for those escaping the Yosemite Valley corridor.
Nearby Tuolumne Meadows sits 15 minutes south and offers more services and higher foot traffic. Cathedral Lakes and Glen Aulin lie within a day's reach for stronger hikers. The Tioga Road (Highway 120) closure pattern means June openings vary year to year; confirm current conditions before driving east from the Valley, as turnaround time is significant if the pass is not yet clear.