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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
189 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.0 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Dog Lake Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Hiking the Dog Lake Trail is an easy-going adventure through mixed pine woodlands and impressive granite outcrops that will take you to the shimmering lake. This trek makes for an excellent half-day hike in Yosemite, exhibiting the sights of the Sierra Nevada Range along the way!

Route Description for Dog Lake Trail

The Dog Lake Trail is a must-add to your Yosemite itinerary. The easy-going, incredibly scenic trail can be enjoyed by hikers of all skill levels and ages. Wander through meadowlands, conifer forests, and up to the shoreline of a blue hued lake bounded by granite bluffs. This wonderful journey boasts beautiful scenery, so make sure to charge your camera! Additionally, the route is quite rocky and uneven, so it is strongly recommended to wear a sturdy pair of footwear. Note: the Yosemite National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional information.

Setting out from the trailhead, the Dog Lake Trail wanders north along the base of Lembert Dome, an immense granite outcrop. This section of the path will climb through the mixed pine forests before the trail plateaus. Now the path will guide adventurers through meadowlands that reveal amazing views of the Sierra Nevada peaks, including Cathedral Peak. From here, hike the Dog Lake Trail all the way to the shores of Dog Lake.

Admire the shimmering waters of Dog Lake, then track the perimeter of the lake to enjoy sights of the encompassing granite bluffs and towering pines. After completing the loop, retrace your footing along the path all the way back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Dog Lake Trail Trailhead

The Dog Lake Trail departs from the Dog Lake Trailhead off Tioga Pass Road

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    June-September

  • Pets allowed:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Dog Lake Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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