Cathedral Lakes Trail delivers classic Sierra Nevada terrain without the commitment of a multi-day backpack. The 7.6-mile round-trip hike climbs steadily from Tuolumne Meadows to two alpine lakes sitting at the base of Cathedral Peak, offering granite slabs, subalpine meadows, and that particular high-country light that makes the Sierra famous.
Trail Details
- 🏃Activities
- Hiking
- 📊Difficulty
- Moderate
- 🔁Trail Type
- out and back
- 📏Distance
- 7.6 miles
- ⬆️Elevation Gain
- 1,000 ft
- 📍Location
- CA
- 🐕Dogs Allowed
- No
- 💵Fee
- Free
Overview
This trail occupies the sweet spot between accessible and rewarding. Starting at 8,500 feet, you're already in the high country, which means the 1,000 feet of elevation gain feels manageable rather than punishing. The route follows part of the John Muir Trail through terrain that shifts from meadow to granite to alpine lake basin. Cathedral Peak's distinctive spires provide the backdrop — a reminder that you're in the Cathedral Range, one of the Sierra's most photogenic sections.
The two lakes offer different experiences. Lower Cathedral Lake sits in a more open basin with granite slabs perfect for lounging. Upper Cathedral Lake feels more enclosed, tucked deeper into the cirque. Most hikers visit both, since they're only separated by a half-mile spur trail once you reach the junction at the 3-mile mark.
What to Expect
From the trailhead near Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center, you'll connect to the John Muir Trail via a short spur. The first section heads west before turning south at the 0.4-mile mark. The trail climbs steadily through mixed terrain — granite outcroppings, seasonal streams, and pockets of meadow that can be marshy through summer.
The key decision point comes at the junction around 3 miles in. The left fork leads to Upper Cathedral Lake, the right to Lower Cathedral Lake. Each lake is roughly half a mile from this junction, so you're looking at an extra mile of hiking if you want to see both. The terrain includes several stream crossings, and the approach to Lower Cathedral Lake passes through meadow areas that stay wet well into the season.
Fire restrictions are in effect — wood fires aren't permitted, so plan accordingly if you're thinking about lunch by the lakes.
Tips & Logistics
Timing is everything on this trail. Tioga Road typically opens in late May or early June and closes with the first significant snowfall in October or November. Call 209/372-0200 for current road conditions before making the drive up. Overnight parking on Tioga Road ends October 15, regardless of whether the road is still open.
The trailhead has paved parking and bear boxes for food storage. At this elevation and with granite country ahead, afternoon thunderstorms are a real consideration during summer months — start early and watch the sky.
Water is available from streams and the lakes themselves, but treat everything. If you're planning to camp, you'll need wilderness permits, and all food and scented items must go in an approved bear canister. Existing campsites are available, but you'll need to stay at least 100 feet from water.
The $35 park entrance fee covers your vehicle for seven days. Given Tioga Road's seasonal closure, this trail represents a relatively short window each year when the high country is accessible by car. The combination of elevation, granite, and alpine lakes makes it worth the timing constraints.