The trail to Mono Pass covers the Sierras’ eastern and western slopes, allowing you to see different ecosystems. It’s an 8-mile roundtrip that starts at Tioga Road, around 1.4 miles south of Yosemite National Park’s entrance.
It’s a good idea to get acclimated to the altitude, which starts at 9,700 ft and climbs up to 10,600 ft. Along the way, you’ll pass depilated 19th-century cabins and cross 3 streams before reaching Mono Pass. The mountain pass has a shelf offering dramatic views of Upper Sardine and Mono Lakes. You can continue your hike to find yourself in Bloody Canyon and the eastern Sierras.