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Valley, reservoir, and aqueduct in California, USA

Hetch Hetchy Backcountry

The overlooked northwest corner of Yosemite — waterfalls, granite domes, and long river canyons.

Where on earth

Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Hetch Hetchy Backcountry, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.

Region
California, USA
Country
United States
Biome
Sierra granite canyon (1,150–2,700 m)
Best season
May – October
Difficulty
moderate
Known for
  • Backpacking
  • Hiking
  • Climbing
  • Desert Hiking
  • Canyoneering
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing

Key takeaways

  • Biome: Sierra granite canyon (1,150–2,700 m)
  • Best season: May – October
  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Top activity: backpacking
Loading live weather & climate for Hetch Hetchy Backcountry

Topic summary

The overlooked northwest corner of Yosemite — waterfalls, granite domes, and long river canyons.

Key takeaways

  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Best season: May – October

Intended uses

backpacking

Climate suitability

Sierra granite canyon (1,150–2,700 m)

Verification notes

Last verified January 1, 1970.

Region
United States
Biome
Sierra granite canyon (1,150–2,700 m)
Difficulty
moderate
backpacking

Plan with verified data

Hetch Hetchy Backcountry trip tools

Popular pursuits at Hetch Hetchy Backcountry

  • Backpacking

    Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.

  • Hiking

    Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.

  • Climbing

    Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.

  • Desert Hiking

    Water carries and heat management drive the plan.

  • Canyoneering

    Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.

  • Wildlife Viewing

    Best light, best season, and where animals move.

Animals around Hetch Hetchy Backcountry

Browse all wildlife guides →

Last verified: 1970-01-01