How to Hike to Gaylor Lakes in Yosemite (2026 guide)

Hiking to Gaylor Lakes is one of the most rewarding high-country treks off Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park. 🙂‍↕️

There are multiple exciting routes that not only lead to the Gaylor Lakes but also provide opportunities to explore other alpine lakes and an abandoned mine.

The Gaylor Lakes consist of three distinct bodies of water – Lower, Middle, and Upper.

The most popular route takes you to Middle and Upper Gaylor Lakes, offering stunning alpine scenery along the way.

Add the Great Sierra Mine to your route if you enjoy seeing old, abandoned structures like I do!

It’s the spooky vibes for me. 👻

If you’re here, I’m guessing you’re planning to visit these lakes yourself, right?

This complete hiking guide covers everything you need to know to reach the popular Middle and Upper Gaylor Lakes, as well as the less-frequented Lower Gaylor Lake.

You’ll also find information on how to extend your hike to the historic Great Sierra Mine!

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links on this page may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting the blog! 🫶

Middle and Upper Gaylor Lakes: Hiking Routes and Maps

Middle Gaylor Lake

Starting at 9,950 feet in elevation, the Gaylor Lakes Trail begins with a steep ascent.

The initial climb features a series of switchbacks where you will gain nearly 600 feet of elevation in 0.5 miles.

It’s a tough start especially if you’re not acclimated to the high elevation yet.

At the top of the ridge hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Dana Meadows and the surrounding Sierra peaks, including Mount Dana, Mammoth Peak, and Mount Gibbs.

✨ READ THIS: 10 Must-Do Easy Hikes in Yosemite

As you follow the trail over the ridge you will catch the first glimpse of Middle Gaylor Lake. The descent to the lake is brief but steep, leading hikers down to the lake which sits at 10,335 feet.

Once you reach the bottom of the hill, take a left and follow the trail around the lake. You’ll thank me later. Hiking around the lake offers incredible views which various angles of the Sierra peaks.

If you only plan to hike to Middle Gaylor Lake, then retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

If you have more energy and time, I highly recommend visiting Upper Gaylor Lake. It will only add one more mile to the total hike.

Upper Gaylor Lake

Middle and Upper Gaylor Lakes is one of my favorite hikes in Yosemite National Park! The trail is incredibly peaceful.

Be prepared for the initial climb. It’s a booty and quad burner!

The muscle burn and breathlessness are worth it once you reach the top of the ridge and see the High Sierra peaks in the distance.

Continue along the trail up and over the ridge towards Middle Gaylor Lake. To reach Upper Gaylor Lake, head north along the Gaylor Lakes Trail.

Use the map above to better visual the trail so you know where to turn. This next section involves a mild ascent of nearly half a mile through open, mostly treeless terrain.

Look back behind you as you climb higher and higher for incredible views of the alpine landscape.

Upper Gaylor Lake feels more secluded than the middle lake. This is a great spot to see Gaylor Peak, rising 11,004 feet, towering majestically above the upper lake.

If you only came to see the two lakes, then retrace your steps to return to the trailhead. If you enjoy history and old structures, then continue along the trail to an old mining site!

✨ READ THIS: Complete Guide to Visiting Tioga Pass (1-day itineraries included!)

Great Sierra Mine via Gaylor Lakes Trail

The ridge ahead of Upper Gaylor Lake contains traces of silver that attracted prospectors in the late 19th century, leading to the establishment of a small mining operation.

Though short-lived, operating from 1881 to 1884 with minimal production, the Great Sierra Mine remains a fascinating relic of Yosemite’s mining history.

Continuing along the trail, the incline gradually increases as you approach the mine.

As you climb higher you will see stunning views of Gaylor Peak, Upper and Middle Gaylor Lakes, and the distant summits of Mount Dana and Mammoth Peak.

About one-third of a mile from Upper Gaylor Lake, the first remnants of the mine become visible. The site includes the crumbling remains of several stone structures and a mine entrance.

The mine entrance is not blocked off, so with that being said, don’t get near it! It’s a vertical drop to who knows where. That sounds like a terrifying situation I wouldn’t want to be in.

Beyond the mine, the trail officially ends at the unmarked park boundary.

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

Lower Gaylor Lake: Hiking Route and Map

Lower Gaylor Lake may be small, but it is undeniably picturesque. Sitting at 10,050 feet, it is framed by rugged, granite mountains to the north and bordered by a sprawling meadow to the south and west.

The open landscape provides breathtaking views beyond the lake and meadow, with Mammoth Peak and several other peaks rising in the distance.

Starting at an elevation of 9,250 feet, the hike to Lower Gaylor Lake offers a rewarding climb, leading hikers to a serene alpine setting.

Directions and Parking

🅿️ Middle and Upper Gaylor Lakes Trailhead

The Middle and Upper Gaylor Lakes Trailhead is located immediately to the right as you enter Yosemite via the Tioga Pass Entrance.

There is a small parking area at the trailhead with space for about a dozen cars, along with a few amenities such as restrooms and food storage lockers.

If the main lot is full, additional parking is available at an overflow lot about 1/10 mile south on Tioga Road. A connector trail from the overflow lot provides access to the main trailhead.

🅿️ Lower Gaylor Lake Trailhead

The Lower Gaylor Lake Trailhead is located just over 4 miles west of the Tioga Pass Entrance and about 3 miles east of Tuolumne Meadows.

Finding it can be a bit tricky, as there is no prominent sign indicating Lower Gaylor Lake Trailhead. Look for a small trailhead mileage sign parallel to the road, which is visible if you’re paying close attention and driving slowly.

A small gravel pullout at the trailhead can fit two small cars. Additional small turnouts are scattered along the road.

If finding a parking spot near the trailhead is too difficult, you can park at the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge. This alternate route connects with the main trailhead after about 2 miles, turning your hike into an 8-mile roundtrip trek.

Best Time to Hike Gaylor Lakes

The best time to hike to Gaylor Lakes in Yosemite is from mid-July to late September. During this period, the snow has typically melted, making the trail more accessible and safer for hiking.

Since both trailheads and all three lakes sit at higher elevation snow can linger well into early summer, so be prepared!

🪻 Late June to early July: Early summer hikes can be beautiful, with vibrant wildflowers blooming in the meadows.

However, snowbanks may still block parts of the trail, especially near Upper Gaylor Lake and the route to the Great Sierra Mine. Be prepared for some route-finding and possible snow crossings!

☀️ Mid-July to August: This is the peak hiking season, with clear trails, warmer weather, and plenty of alpine scenery. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible, so start your hike early to avoid bad weather.

⚠️ Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

🍂 September: Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make this a wonderful time to visit. The lakes and surrounding meadows begin to take on autumn hues, creating a stunning landscape.

🌨️ October and beyond: By early October, snow can begin to fall again, making the trail more challenging to navigate. Tioga Road typically closes from November to May due to snow.

There is a chance Tioga Road could be open in November and May (on rare occasions even in December) – check road conditions HERE.

Tips for Hiking Gaylor Lakes

1. Yosemite’s Entrance Fee and Reservation:

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 at this time (updated January 12, 2026).

2. Download Offline Maps: Following the trails to reach all three lakes is easy, but having offline maps downloaded on your phone can give you peace of mind.

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

4. Acclimate to the Elevation: Middle Gaylor Lake sits at 10,335 feet at elevation, Upper Lake sits at 10,500 feet, and Lower Gaylor Lake is at 10,050 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.

5. 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!

6. 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

🎟️ 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.

📆 Reservation – Depending on when you plan to visit Yosemite, you may need a reservation.

👚 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.

Conclusion

Hiking to Gaylor Lakes in Yosemite offers a rewarding alpine adventure, combining serene lakes, sweeping meadows, and stunning mountain vistas.

The intriguing remnants of the Great Sierra Mine add a unique touch to your hike, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s history.

Hiking to the Lower, Middle, and Upper Gaylor Lakes is so underrated and worth adding to your Yosemite itinerary.

If this guide inspires you to hike Gaylor Lakes, I’d love to hear about your adventure.

Leave a comment and share your experience!

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