ADVENTURE OF THE MONTH
Adventure title: Snow play just south of Yosemite National Park
Name of area/general location:
Goat Meadow Snowplay Area, within the Sierra National Forest, near Oakhurst, California.
Land acknowledgment:
This recreation opportunity is located on the unceded territories and homelands of the Nüümü (Northern Paiute) and Me-Wuk (Southern Sierra Miwok). To learn more about the original residents and stewards of the lands, visit: native-land.ca
Trail/river/climb/ etc. rating and why (easy, moderate, hard):
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Trail/river/ etc. mileage (different options if available):
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Permissible trail uses (dogs, horses, mountain bikes, others):
Snowplay, tubing and sledding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing (trails not maintained)
Description of area, sights, wildlife and any key markers on the trail/river/climb etc.
Goat Meadow Snowplay Area provides visitors easy access to an area for snow play, with mild slopes for tubing and sledding. In times past, this area was also known for its cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities, but the trails are not currently maintained or groomed in winter. If someone is adventurous enough and has proper training with GPS and navigation in the snow, they could attempt to take such a trek and even venture into the southern portion of Yosemite National Park.
There are no rentals in the immediate area, so if you do wish to go “down the slopes”, you will have to bring your own snow toys or purchase equipment in one of the larger cities as you make your way there. Additionally, while a port-a-potty may be available in the winter, there are not any reliable services at Goat Meadow, so we recommend you plan your pit-stops accordingly and use Leave No Trace Ethics by packing out your trash.
How to get there:
From Oakhurst, California, take Highway-41 north for approximately 16 miles. Turn right on Mt. Raymond Road and travel about 0.7 mile until you reach the parking lot. You should also carry snow chains since the area is at 5,200 feet in elevation and the California Highway Patrol may call for chain control to be in effect if road conditions become severe enough.
More information (AllTrails link, etc.):
Sierra National Forest information
Bass Lake Ranger District (office)
Located in North Fork, CA 93643
Phone: (559) 877-2218 ext.0
Photo Credits: Visit Yosemite – Madera County
