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Cathedral Lakes Trail
Granite-rimmed alpine lakes beneath Cathedral Peak, off Tioga Road.
About
Cathedral Lakes sit in Yosemite's high country, a pair of granite-rimmed alpine lakes reached by a steady climb off Tioga Road near the west end of Tuolumne Meadows. The trail shares its lower stretch with the John Muir Trail, so you'll cross paths with thru-hikers as well as day trippers headed for the same payoff: Cathedral Peak's fin-shaped summit rising straight out of the water.
The Hike
From a trailhead around 8,500 feet, the trail climbs about 1,000 feet over the first 3.5 miles before easing off near a junction. A short spur from there drops to Lower Cathedral Lake, while the main trail continues on to Upper Cathedral Lake near 9,600 feet. Depending on which lake (or both) you visit, the round trip runs somewhere between roughly 7 and 9.6 miles. AllTrails rates the full out-and-back as moderately challenging, with most hikers taking four to five hours.
Good to Know
- The trailhead is only reachable when Tioga Road is open for the season, typically summer into fall depending on snowpack.
- No wilderness permit is needed for a day hike — permits apply only to overnight backcountry stays.
- Expect marshy footing and lingering snow patches early in the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the hike to Cathedral Lakes?
Plan on roughly 7 miles round trip if you're headed only to Lower Cathedral Lake, or closer to 9.6 miles if you continue on to Upper Cathedral Lake. Most hikers take four to five hours.
Do I need a permit to day-hike to Cathedral Lakes?
No. Wilderness permits in Yosemite are only required for overnight backpacking trips — day hikers just need to be inside the park.
When can I access the trailhead?
Only when Tioga Road is open for the season, generally early summer through fall. Opening and closing dates shift year to year with snowpack, so check current park conditions before you go.
Can you swim in Cathedral Lakes?
Yes, though the water is cold and glacially fed. Lower Cathedral Lake is the more popular spot for a dip on a hot afternoon.
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