by KC » Sun Jul 11, 2010 10:34 am
I had to hitch my way to Glacier Point a few years ago after making a wrong turn on a trail. Could've gone up 4-mile trail, but was just too pooped after a week in the back country.
My suggestion is to look for a ride by the Valley Wilderness Center. It may take some time, but you'll likely get one. Or, you could just take the shuttle bus that goes to Glacier Point. I haven't taken it, but it may drop you at the tunnel. Have you looked into that, or any other public transportation options, yet?
Also, I imagine it's pretty dry now on the Pohono Trail. I did the trail in early June when there was plenty of water; however, I would definitely ask around about creek conditions on the trail now. It's a haul from the Tunnel up to Bridalveil Creek, where your only sure source of water is likely to be. You'll definitely want to check conditions first.
You might be better off starting at Glacier, camping a night at Bridalveil, then going down to the Tunnel from there. You could hike through the valley (or catch a bus) and stay a night at the backpacker's camp. You could go back up the 4-mile trail in the am then.