Hiking to Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite National Park (2026 guide)

Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite National Park is a popular destination for day hikers and backpackers. The trail starts near Tuolumne Meadows and ends at two stunning alpine lakes, Lower Cathedral Lake and Upper Cathedral Lake, with jaw-dropping views of Cathedral Peak and Echo Peak. 😍

It’s probably one of the most photographed spots in Yosemite’s high country. It’s also one of the busiest trails, but still more peaceful as compared to the hikes in Yosemite Valley.

If you’re planning a trip to explore Tioga Road in Yosemite, I highly recommend adding Cathedral Lakes to your itinerary! It’s one of the best day hikes in my opinion. 🥾🙌

Read my complete guide to learn everything you need to know about hiking to Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite National Park!

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Cathedral Lakes Trail Stats and Map

Cathedral Lakes is one of my personal favorite alpine lake hikes in Yosemite, but there are more worth exploring! Check out Gaylor Lakes, Spillway Lake via Mono Pass Trail, and May Lake. These are all located along Tioga Road.

You’ll begin the Cathedral Lakes hike along the famous John Muir Trail which leads straight to the Upper Cathedral Lake and a short spur trail takes you to the Lower Cathedral Lake.

The length of this hike will vary quite a bit depending on where you begin this hike (main trailhead vs visitor center), if you hike to one lake or both lakes, and if you hike around the lakes.

Oh and if you’re planning a trip to Sequoia National Park and you love alpine lakes, consider hiking the Lakes Trail where you’ll see four alpine lakes!

Ok, let’s get discuss the Cathedral Lakes Trail in Yosemite! 👇

Cathedral Lakes Trail Stats

Cathedral Lakes Trail Map

Yosemite National Park Entrance Fee and Reservations

Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 3-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free!

For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, for U.S. residents, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!

FEE UPDATES! Beginning January 1, 2026, non-U.S. residents (without an annual pass) will pay a $100 per person in addition to the standard entrance fee. The Annual Pass for non-US residents will cost $250.

Reservations are not required this year. (updated July 8, 2026).

Cathedral Lakes Trailhead and Parking

The Cathedral Lakes hike in Yosemite National Park starts near the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center. You can begin this hike from the Cathedral Lakes Trailhead which has a small parking area or the visitor center which offers a much bigger parking lot.

📍 Google Maps Location: Cathedral Lakes Trailhead

🅿️ Trailhead Parking: The main trailhead has two small roadside parking areas – fills up quickly in the morning. If the trailhead parking area is full, you can drive about 0.5 miles (0.8 km) down the road and park at the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center.

🗺️ Distance to Trailhead: The Cathedral Lakes Trailhead is located 0.5 miles (0.8 km) west of Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center. The trailhead sits 45 miles (72 km) from the Big Oak Flat Entrance and 9 miles (14 km) from the Tioga Pass Entrance.

🚗 Parking Tips: If you want to park directly at the trailhead, arrive early in the morning. This parking area has limited spots and fills up fast! The visitor center parking area is a lot bigger but can also fill up during summer weekends – usually people are coming and going so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a parking spot.

🚻 Facilities: There are no restrooms or drinking water at the main trailhead. You can find flush toilets and drinking water as well as an information desk, bookstore, and an exhibit area at the visitor center.

🚌 Shuttle Option: The Tuolumne Meadows Area Shuttle is running this season until September 13, 2026. It provides stops between Tuolumne Meadows Lodge and Olmsted Point approximately every 30 minutes. One of the stops is at the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center where you can begin hiking to Cathedral Lakes.

Best Time to Hike to Cathedral Lakes

🪻 Late June to Early July: Yosemite’s high country begins to come back to life with wildflowers starting to bloom and snowmelt filling streams and lakes. Patches of snow may still linger at higher elevations, so be prepared with the appropriate gear. Tioga Road may still be closed during this time, so check road conditions before heading out!

☀️ July to August: These months are the most popular for hiking due to warm weather and clear trail conditions. Expect more crowds, especially on weekends. And be aware of afternoon summer thunderstorms!

⚠️ Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

🍂 September to Early October: This is an ideal time for those seeking fewer crowds (as compared to peak summer crowds) and cooler temperatures. The weather is generally dry, and the crisp fall air makes for excellent hiking conditions. However, be prepared for cooler mornings and evenings, and always check for early snowstorms in late September and October.

🌨️ November to May: Tioga Road will be closed during this period due to snow. There is a chance it could be open in November and May (on rare occasions even in December) – check road conditions HERE.

I have zero experience exploring Tioga Pass and Tuolumne Meadows in winter, so I’m going to leave that for the experts. If you have the knowledge, skills, and experience then you do you. Always be smart and safe!

Hiking to Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite: Step-by-Step Directions

Cathedral Lakes Trailhead

The Cathedral Lakes Trailhead sits at an elevation of 8,500 feet, and the ascent begins almost immediately.

If you are starting from the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center, follow the spur trail parallel to the road until you reach the main trailhead.

Once you reach the main trailhead, hop onto the John Muir Trail heading towards Cathedral Lakes. The trail itself is wide and rocky, winding steadily upward through a dense, shaded forest of towering pines.

John Muir Trail

The initial climb might make you second guess your decision to hike this trail. But don’t give up so soon!

The incline combined with high altitude makes this trail seem harder than it really is. Take your time and rest as much as you need. This is the hardest part of the entire hike!

At the top of this first stretch, you’ll be rewarded with a view of a massive granite formation towering above you. It may look like a granite dome but it’s actually the north shoulder of Cathedral Peak.

After about 1 mile (1.6 km) of relatively level hiking, you’ll pass a small spring before beginning another gradual ascent. This short section will be a fairly tough climb but not as bad as the first climb.

Lower and Upper Cathedral Lakes Junction

Around the 2.8-mile (4.5-km) mark, the trail begins a gentle descent along rocky terrain and through a shaded forest.

At the 3-mile (4.8-km) mark, you’ll arrive at the Lower and Upper Cathedral Lakes junction. Head to the right and follow the spur trail towards Lower Cathedral Lake.

✨ READ THIS: Best Hikes in Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass

Lower Cathedral Lake

The Lower Cathedral Lake is about 0.5 miles (0.8 km) from the trail junction. This lake sits at 9,290 feet in elevation. Remember to stay hydrated and take rest breaks!

The short walk takes you through a peaceful forest before opening up into a large meadow. Depending on the season and water levels, you may need to cross a few small streams on your way.

When you reach the granite shore, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lower Cathedral Lake, a large meadow, and the surrounding granite peaks. You will get an incredible view of Cathedral Peak!

There is a trail that takes your around the entire lake. I highly recommend hiking it as you’ll get an even better view of Cathedral Peak towering over Lower Cathedral Lake.

Upper Cathedral Lake

Let’s explore the Upper Cathedral Lake next! Retrace your steps back to the junction and take a right onto the John Muir Trail (heading south) towards the lake.

Upper Cathedral Lake is also about 0.5 miles (0.8 km) from the trail junction. The trail involves an initial descent then a bit more uphill climbing before leveling out as you approach the lake.

Once you arrive, head straight to the far side of the lake for an amazing view of Cathedral Peak from a different angle. From here you will be able to see the width of Cathedral Peak. It’s a very cool look at the peak’s geological structure!

I personally enjoyed exploring Lower Cathedral Lake more than Upper Cathedral Lake. But both are stunning!

If it’s your first time, I recommend seeing both lakes for yourself. They’re both definitely worth the effort! To return to the trailhead, retrace your steps back along the John Muir Trail.

Congrats, you did it! 🥳

Tips for Hiking the Cathedral Lakes Trail in Yosemite National Park

1. Download Offline Maps: Following the John Muir Trail to both Lower and Upper Cathedral Lakes is easy, but having offline maps downloaded on your phone can give you peace of mind.

2. Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.

3. Acclimate to the Elevation: Lower Cathedral Lake sits at 9,290 feet and Upper Cathedral Lake sits at 9,600 feet. This high altitude can make the hike significantly more challenging. Take time to acclimate if you’re not used to hiking at high elevations.

Altitude sickness is a serious risk that can be avoided if properly acclimated. Pay attention to your body, stay hydrated, and take breaks as needed.

4. Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Yosemite. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

🐻Note: Bear spray is prohibited in Yosemite National Park!

5. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.

What to Bring to Yosemite National Park

🎟️ Entrance Pass – You will need to purchase an entrance pass once you reach the entrance station or you can buy the America the Beautiful Pass ahead of time and use that for the entire year.

👚 Layers of Clothing (top) – Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece mid-layer, an insulated jacket, and an outer shell to protect you from the elements, such as rain and wind. You may not need all these layers, especially in the summer months, but it’s always best to be over-prepared!

Check out my favorite tops 👇

• Base layer: REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie (warm/mild conditions) and REI Co-op Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer (cooler conditions)
• Fleece mid layer: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
• Down mid layer: Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket
• Outer shell: In the summer I always pack a light windbreaker, such as the Cotopaxi Teca Crop Windbreaker or the RevolutionRace Unit Light Windbreaker. Make sure to also pack a waterproof rain jacket – I like the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket.

🩳 Hiking Shorts or Pants – Pack a comfortable, durable, and stretchy pair of hiking shorts or pants. Also think about what conditions you might run into, such as warm or cold temperatures, wind and/or rain, bugs, and overgrown trails.

Check out my favorite hiking bottoms 👇

• Cotopaxi Losdos Zip-Off Pants
• RevolutionRace Breezy Ankle Outdoor Pants
• Baleaf Fleece-Lined Jogger Pants
• RevolutionRace Summit Pocket Tights
• Revolution Race Hike & Dive Shorts

🥾 Hiking Footwear – Bring a good pair of hiking boots or shoes with good traction. If I’m not expecting to hike in too much mud or snow, my go-to hiking shoes are the Altra Lone Peak trail runners. They have a wide-toe box, 0 mm heel-to-toe drop, and MaxTrac rubber outsole. Plus, they’re lightweight and so comfy!

🧦 Socks – Moisture-wicking, quick-drying socks are the way to go. My favorite pair of hiking socks are Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks. Always pack an extra pair!

🎒 Day Pack – What you plan to do (sightseeing, hiking, etc.), determines what size pack you’ll need. Here is what I typically bring based on what I’m doing that day 👇

• Short walks and sightseeing: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Del Dia Hip Pack
• Short, easy to moderate day hikes: REI Co-op Flash 22L Pack
• Long, moderate to challenging day hikes: REI Co-op Trail 25L Pack or Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 24L Pack

🥢 Trekking Poles – Essential for stability, balance, and support when hiking trails, especially on tough, rocky, and uneven terrain. I use REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles and love them!

❄️ Microspikes – Bring a pair of microspikes if you’re visiting in the winter and you’re planning to hike along icy trails. They will give you good traction to avoid slipping! I use Black Diamond Access Spike Traction Device.

🦟 Mosquito/Bug Repellants – In the warmer months, be prepared for annoying gnats, mosquitoes, and flies. Wear long-sleeve clothing, a head net, and use bug spray.

🧤 Extra Warm Layers – If you expect cooler conditions or hiking to higher elevations, make sure to pack extra layers for added warmth, such as gloves, beanie, neck gaiter, and a light jacket.

🗺️ Navigation – Carry a physical topographic map, compass, a satellite messenger (or personal locator beacon), and download offline maps to help you stay on course, find your way in unfamiliar terrain, and call for help if needed.

🔦 Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.

💧 Water – Water bottles to carry sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.

🍕 Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.

😎 Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, even when it’s cloudy. Also, polarized sunglasses are important when it’s bright outside and to reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and roads.

🩹 First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.

🥶 Emergency Shelter – Pack an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.

🔥 Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency. Along with matches, I also carry a multi-tool carabiner that has a fire starter, utility blade, screwdriver, and bottle opener.

🗡️ Multi-Tool and Repair Kit – A versatile tool/knife and repair kit to handle any task, from preparing food to making repairs.

💩 Waste Disposal Supplies – WAG bags, trowel, toilet paper, pee cloth, wipes, Ziploc bags – be sure to pack out everything!

Conclusion

Hiking to Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite National Park is one of the most incredible experiences. I highly recommend adding Cathedral Lakes to your Tioga pass itinerary – you won’t regret it!

The hike takes you to Lower Cathedral Lake and Upper Cathedral Lake which are two stunning alpine lakes. And towering above both lakes is a beautiful granite peak known as Cathedral Peak.

If this guide inspires you to hike the Cathedral Lakes Trail in Yosemite National Park, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!

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