Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
The Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is located in the northwest area of the park and serves as a gateway to many beautiful, less-traveled areas in Yosemite. The Hetch Hetchy Road normally stays open year-round (the reservoir lies at a relatively low 3900' elevation) which makes this a good area for spring and fall wilderness travel.

High temperatures prevail at these lower elevations during the summer months, a small price to pay for access to the several lakes and popular valleys that lie within a 15-mile hike of the reservoir. Hikers may elect to begin longer trips here as well, either toward Tuolumne Meadows or the northernmost reaches of the park.

Permit Information
Backcountry permits are available at the Valley Visitor Center, The Wilderness Center (next to the Ansel Adams Gallery), and at wilderness permit stations (7:30 am to 6:00 pm). Phone (209)372-0200.

Directions
The reservoir is located 40 miles from Yosemite Valley via Highway 120 and the Evergreen and Hetch Hetchy Roads.

Information Center
There is an information center located at Yosemite National Park's Hetch Hetchy Entrance, which is located at the junction of Highway 120 and Hetch Hetchy Road.

Activities