Clouds Rest Trail begins from the Tenaya Lake Trailhead along Tioga Road slightly west of the lake. Follow the paved access road from the trailhead parking area across the outlet of Tenaya Lake to a trail junction. Bear right at this junction to reach Sunrise Lakes, Sunrise High Sierra Camp and Clouds Rest. The left fork leads along the southern shore of Tenaya Lake. The trail leads westward for a short distance following Tenaya Creek then turns sharply southeastward.

Within a half mile of the trail junction this route descends slightly to cross the outlet of Mildred Lake. Shortly beyond this stream crossing the trail fords the outlet creeks of upper, middle and lower Sunrise Lakes. After leaving the third creek, switchbacks begin. The trail climbs 800 feet to a junction. At this junction follow the trail leading right, which is Forsyth Trail. From the trail junction Forsyth Trail descends slightly then levels for a quarter mile as it reaches a small pond. Pass the pond, unless you plan to camp along its shores, and continue descending slightly to three stream crossings. The trail will turn westward and ascend somewhat before reaching the third small stream crossing.

Beyond the third stream crossing the trail begins to ascend slowly and reaches a trail junction. At this point you are approximately five miles from the Tenaya Trailhead. Follow the Clouds Rest Trail to the left. This trail ascends steadily to the final summit approach of Clouds Rest. Upon reaching the final ascent of this peak the trail ends and you ascend the northeast ridge of the peak. The final climb is along a natural granite staircase with plenty of exposure. The views from the summit are worth the work it takes to reach the top of Clouds Rest.