You can check the National Park.gov web site to see what parks have been affected by the government shut down. I believe they stated Hetch Hetchy is closed. This area is quite remote and the drive is twisty, narrow and steep in some areas. If you plan to go at another time be sure roads are open for that time of year. The Tioga pass which is not too far from this area is closed for the winter but a definite worthwhile trip to drive through when it is opened during warmer months of the year.

There's a parking area by the dam. It's accessible on the dam. The hiking trail to Wapama Falls is 5 miles there & back. It's NOT accessible! You can see the falls from the dam though. Depending on where you're coming from this may be too long a drive for a few pictures. We camped in El Portal, outside the hanging rock entrance & it was 108 miles round trip to get to Hetch Hetchy.

We went early (around 0800). Parking lot had 4 other cars. We saw only a couple of people going to the falls. On the way back there were at least 30 people going to the falls. The parking lot wasn't full, but there were a lot of cars. I would say if you want people around, go after lunch. I wouldn't go much later. The hike is moderate, but it'll take time to get to the falls.

So sorry ... I saw your question only today, so I guess you have already done with your backpack trip ... I hope you enjoyed, it is so beautiful ... please accept my apoligizes