Hetch Hetchy Reservoir - O'Shaughnessy Dam

O'Shaughnessy Dam with Hetch Hetchy Reservoir

Quick Facts

Amenities

5 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Recycling, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Wheelchair Accessible

From the parking area, take a short walk to the O'Shaughnessy Dam to get views of the reservoir and two waterfalls, Tueeulala Fall and Wapama Fall.

The O'Shaughnessy Dam, named for the chief engineer, was completed in 1938. Today, this 117-billion-gallon reservoir supplies pristine drinking water to 2.7 million Bay Area residents and industrial users. It also supplies hydro-electric power generated by two plants downstream. The reservoir is eight miles long and the largest single body of water in Yosemite.

Tips & Hours

Unlike other areas of Yosemite, the road to Hetch Hetchy is open from sunrise to sunset only.

From November through March, the Hetch Hetchy Road may be subject to closures or chain requirements due to ice and snow. Call 209/372-0200 (press 1, then 1) for current road conditions.

Pets are prohibited on all trails and on the dam. Swimming and boating are prohibited in Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in order to maintain a clean source of drinking water.

Accessibility

Designated accessible parking spaces are available. The viewpoint on O'Shaugnessy Dam is paved and wheelchair accessible.