Young Lakes Trail

Overview

This is high Sierra hiking at its most straightforward — granite domes, alpine lakes, and the kind of crystal air that makes every photo look like a postcard whether you want it to or not. The trail starts from Lembert Dome parking at 8,600 feet and climbs gradually through the Tuolumne high country, where temperatures run 15 to 20 degrees cooler than the Valley floor.

You have two route options from the trailhead: via Dog Lake or via Glen Aulin. The Dog Lake route is more direct, passing the 1.5-mile day hike destination before continuing toward the lakes. Both routes converge before reaching Lower Young Lake at 9,850 feet, where most people make camp.

The three lakes sit in classic glacial cirques — Lower, Middle, and Upper Young Lakes ascending like granite steps. Lower Young Lake gets the heaviest use, while the upper lakes require more commitment as the trail deteriorates into rough, cross-country terrain between the second and third lakes.

What to Expect

The trail is well-maintained and well-traveled until you push past the second lake. Expect polished granite slabs, seasonal wildflower displays, and the constant backdrop of Cathedral Range peaks. Water is reliable at the lakes themselves and at Delaney Creek, though other water sources along the route are seasonal.

The highest point hits 10,055 feet, putting you firmly in subalpine territory where weather can shift quickly. Sierra afternoon thundershowers are a real concern — any blue sky morning can turn ominous by 2 PM. Plan accordingly and be prepared to bail if storms develop.

Mosquitoes are abundant through summer, particularly around the lakes. They're the primary drawback to what are otherwise ideal camping locations. The bug pressure typically eases by late August, making early fall the sweet spot for overnight trips.

Tips & Logistics

Tioga Road access is the limiting factor. The road closes with first significant snow in November and doesn't reopen until late May or June. No overnight parking is allowed on Tioga Road after October 15, effectively ending the season for most backpackers.

All overnight trips require wilderness permits through Yosemite's quota system. Sixty percent of permits are available 24 weeks in advance, with the remaining 40 percent released two weeks ahead. Young Lakes permits are awarded by trailhead, so specify whether you're starting from Dog Lake or Glen Aulin.

Bear canisters are mandatory — Young Lakes don't have bear lockers. You can rent approved canisters at Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center if you don't own one. Open fires are prohibited above 9,600 feet, so bring a stove.

The Lembert Dome parking area fills early on weekends and holidays. Arrive before 8 AM or consider weekday trips. Toilets and water are available at the Wilderness Center and at the Dog Lake trailhead.

Drive Highway 120/Tioga Road west for 19 miles from its junction with US 395 to reach Lembert Dome parking. From the west, it's about 55 miles east from the Big Oak Flat entrance, passing through the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.

Late August through September offers the best conditions: fewer bugs, stable weather, and Tioga Road reliably open. Early season means snow patches and swollen creeks; late season brings the risk of early closure.