Near Tuolumne Meadows to Elizabeth Lake
These formations in Lyell Canyon make for great swimming holes along the John Muir Trail in Yosemite National Park.
Near Tuolumne Meadows to Elizabeth Lake
Unicorn Peak above Elizabeth Lake
Near Tuolumne Meadows to Elizabeth Lake
You have reached your destination!
Near Tuolumne Meadows to Elizabeth Lake
Storm rolling over Mammoth Mountain as seen in Tuolumne Meadows
Near Tuolumne Meadows to Elizabeth Lake
Unicorn Peak and Elizabeth Lake.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Tuolumne Meadows to Elizabeth Lake

4.3 (3 Ratings)
A smooth hike that peaks at a spectacular view of Elizabeth Lake at the base of Cathedral Peak.
4.5
mi
Distance
841
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFamily FriendlyLakeRiver/CreekSwimmingViewsWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
4.45mi
Distance
841ft
Elevation Gain
841ft
Elevation Loss
20%
Max Grade
9,514ft
High Point
8,667ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
From Tuolumne Lodge via the JMT, one must travel 0.7 miles before crossing the Twin Bridges in the meadows. Within the next 0.15 miles you'll take a sharp right and follow the river until the trail leads slightly uphill and through the campground. After this, you'll come to a fork in which the trail on the left will lead you to Elizabeth Lake.The remainder of the hike (until you turnaround) is an uphill that requires very little technical maneuvering. Surrounded by trees the majority of the time, you might think that this trail lacks the viewpoints that other trails in the High Country afford. However, once the trail flattens out and opens up into the serene landscape of Elizabeth Lake, you'll not be disappointed. Lying at the base of Cathedral Peak, this alpine lake offers a view that simply can't be captured on a postcard...Before you start on the amazing descent, make sure you kick back, relax, and take in the beauty that this 3-mile climb brought you to.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Nate Porter