Elizabeth Lake sits in a granite bowl at 9,500 feet, tucked beneath Unicorn Peak in Yosemite's Cathedral Range. The 4.8-mile round-trip climb from Tuolumne Meadows delivers classic high Sierra scenery without the commitment of a longer backcountry trek. It's a solid day hike when Tioga Road is open, offering a taste of the alpine country that defines Yosemite above the Valley floor.
Trail Details
- 🏃Activities
- Hiking
- 📊Difficulty
- Moderate
- 🔁Trail Type
- out and back
- 📏Distance
- 6.8 miles
- ⬆️Elevation Gain
- 1,000 ft
- 📍Location
- CA
- 🐕Dogs Allowed
- No
- 💵Fee
- Free
Overview
This trail captures what makes the high Sierra compelling: the transition from dense forest to open granite country, culminating at a lake that looks carved from the mountain itself. The hike starts at 8,700 feet in Tuolumne Meadows Campground and climbs 1,000 feet through lodgepole pine forest before emerging at Elizabeth Lake's rocky shoreline.
The lake itself is the payoff — a glacier-carved basin reflecting Unicorn Peak's granite walls. A one-mile trail circles the water, giving you multiple vantage points and picnic spots. The setting feels remote despite the relatively short approach, especially if you time it right and avoid the midday crowds.
What to Expect
The first mile and a half takes you through thick lodgepole forest where most of the elevation gain happens. The trail crosses the John Muir Trail early on, then continues climbing steadily through trees. Don't expect much in the way of views during this section — it's forest hiking with the occasional glimpse of granite domes through the canopy.
The character changes as you gain elevation and the trees thin out. The last stretch to the lake opens up, revealing the granite amphitheater ahead. Elizabeth Lake sits in a classic cirque — steep walls on three sides with Unicorn Peak rising directly above the far shore.
The lake itself is substantial enough for the circle trail around its perimeter. A creek crossing is required to reach some sections of shoreline, which can be tricky during peak snowmelt when water levels are high and the current is swift. Plan accordingly if you're hiking in early season.
Tips & Logistics
Timing is everything. Tioga Road typically opens sometime between late May and late June, depending on snowpack, and closes with the first significant snow in late October or November. Check current road conditions before making the drive — being turned back at Crane Flat after driving from the Valley is a frustrating end to a hiking day.
The trailhead sits at the back of the B loop in Tuolumne Meadows Campground. From Yosemite Valley, it's a 49-mile drive via Tioga Road. Parking fills up on busy summer weekends, so start early or consider arriving later in the afternoon when day hikers are heading out.
No overnight camping is permitted at Elizabeth Lake — this is day-use only. The restriction keeps the area from getting overrun, but it means you need to complete the hike in one push. Most people finish in 4-6 hours, leaving time to explore the shoreline and enjoy lunch with a view.
Water is available at the lake, but treat it before drinking. The elevation here puts you well into bear country, and the trailhead provides animal-safe food storage. Use it. Standard Sierra hiking gear applies: layers for changing conditions, sun protection at altitude, and traction devices if there's any chance of ice on the trail.