Vogelsgang - Lyell Canyon Loop

Start from the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge and head south on the Pacific Crest Trail. In 1.5 miles turn right on Rafferty Creek Trail, following signs for Vogelsang High Sierra Camp. This trail leads about 6 more miles to the camp, which is just over Tuolumne Pass. Upon arriving in Vogelsang, you'll find an idyllic camp with jagged peaks, flowing streams, and alpine lakes.If spending the night at Vogelsang (or dispersed camping nearby), you'll have many options for short day hikes from camp. Check out Booth Lake, Townsley Lake, Emeric Lake, or Vogelsang Lake. Note that if you want a shorter return day, you could just hike back via Rafferty Creek, but the additional trek into Lyell Canyon on the PCT is worth the extra mileage.To continue the loop in this way, take Evelyn Lake Trail out from Vogelsang Camp. After passing the lake, this trail crests a high saddle that provides views of the Cathedral Range to the west and the expanse of Lyell Canyon up ahead. The trail drops steeply in switchbacks on the eastern side of the pass.If you haven't had your fill of alpine lakes, consider the side trip to secluded Ireland Lake on the Ireland Lake Trail. Otherwise, continue down into thickening forest and the junction with the Pacific Crest Trail/John Muir Trail. From there on out, it's a rather flat and easy walk through the valley bottom back to the trailhead.