camping outside of toulumne meadows

[_Gabe_]

Finally got our dates and permits set for a 4 day backpacking trip starting at the Cathedral Lakes Trailhead at TM. What I am wanting to do is leave the day before to settle down...aclimate...etc and get an early start on the hike the next morning. Since I start my hike on a Sunday, June 28th there is no chance of me finding a campsite available at TM for the day before.

I would like to stay nearby within walking distance since I plan to leave me car in the valley floor and take the shuttle up to TM on Saturday. Any ideas?

Thanks,
Gabe

[balzaccom]

If you can't get a campsite at TM, you should stay at Hodgon Meadows---it's at about 6,000, which gets you acclimated, and there are first come/first served campsites there.

It's about a 45 minute drive from TM--but that's as close as you are going to get, I think...

[gwegan]

Actually you should be able to get a campsite. Their are spots reserved for backpackers. Or get a permit for May Lake Sunday night. The wilderness office will explain how to use the shuttle to get to May Lake (2 1/2 mile walk)