Several lakes and popular valleys are all located within 15 miles of the reservoir, and hikers may elect to begin longer trips at this point, either toward Tuolumne Meadows or the northernmost reaches of the park.
The fourth region contains @Wawona and Glacier Point. Historic Wawona, at 4,000 feet elevation, is located just inside the park's southern boundary on Highway 41. Because of its low elevation, trails from Wawona are accessible during the spring and fall, as well as during the summer. Here the lush open meadows, forests, and lakes which abound in Yosemite's less-frequented southern wilderness can be reached from numerous trailheads. The abundance of water in the spring makes this an attractive area for wilderness users.
Once under snow in winter, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is designated as a wilderness region, one where Nordic skiers and snow-shoers can obtain a permit to ski through and camp in the upper reaches of the Grove.
At an elevation of 7,200 feet, Glacier Point offers a spectacular view of Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls, Yosemite Valley, and the Clark Range. It serves as the trailhead for many popular day hikes and provides access to the lesser-traveled wilderness areas in the southern portion of Yosemite.
Driving time from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point is about one hour. The Glacier Point Road is generally open from late May to late October, while in winter it serves as a groomed cross-country ski track starting from the Badger Pass ski area.
