Lyell Canyon



Lyell Canyon is a sub-alpine meadow in Yosemite National Park south of Tuolumne Meadows. For 8 miles(13 kilometers) most of the canyon has an approximate elevation of 8000 ft, and then rapidly climbs to 10826 ft to Donohue Pass, below Donohue Peak – which marks the eastern boundary of Yosemite. The valley at the base is relatively flat and wide, following the Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River through an open meadow and wooded areas. The Lyell Fork eventually meets with Tuolumne River.

The canyon as well as Mount Lyell to the west is named after Charles Lyell, a well-known 19th century geologist and friend of Charles Darwin.

The canyon is an easy hike from Tuolumne Meadows campground. The John Muir Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail both route through the canyon. The trail is popular for hikers as an easy way to view surrounding mountains, a waterfall and Sierra wildflowers.