Take the Valley shuttle to Mirror Lake Trailhead where you will begin your hike.

After a flat 2 miles, you will begin the steep three miles up to snow creek as you take one switch back after the next.  This steep climb will reward you with beautiful views of Tenaya Canyon and give you a different perspective on the classic Half Dome view.

Once you reach the top of the switchbacks, snow will welcome you.  So snap on your snowshoes, and soon you will be making your way through two feet of fresh powder.  The bridge across Snow Creek marks five miles on the trail, but feel free to continue on and frolic through the winter wonderland of deep snow and snow dusted pine trees.

Timing is everything on this hike. I did it at the beginning of March and had perfect snow conditions.  Those switchbacks would be rough if they were covered in snow, so pick a day when the snow pack doesn't reach below 6,000ft.