Cathedral Lakes Trail Details, Parking, Permits & FAQs

Cathedral Lakes

Cathedral Lakes is one of the most iconic hikes in Yosemite National Park—and one of the best ways to experience the High Sierra without committing to a long backcountry trip. Located just outside Tuolumne Meadows, this trail leads to two alpine lakes set beneath Cathedral Peak, each offering a completely different experience.

Looking for the full experience and trail insights? Read our Cathedral Lakes hiking guide with local tips

The hike to Cathedral Lakes is roughly 7–8.5 miles round trip depending on how far you go, with about 1,000–1,100 feet of elevation gain. While considered moderate, the steady climb and elevation can catch people off guard—especially in the first couple of miles. he Cathedral Lakes trail sees heavy use during peak summer months, but it’s popular for a reason. The route delivers a steady climb through forest and granite terrain before opening up to one of the most recognizable alpine lake settings in Yosemite.

If you’re planning a Yosemite trip and want one hike that captures granite, alpine water, and big Sierra views, this is it.

I’m asked often, if I had only one day in Yosemite, where would I go? And without hesitation I always suggest Cathedral Lakes

Charlie Pankey – Publisher Sierra Rec Magazine

For a combination of accessibility, beauty and a unique Yosemite vibe Cathedral Lakes in unmatched in our opinion for locations that are must sees in the park. From a Scenic hike value this one maxes the chart. On our first ever visit in 2012 a wise old hiker met us on the way down the JMT. After a brief trail conversation he recommended we skip the Lower Lake on the way up and instead hike to the Upper lake and take the time to walk on the North Side of the upper lake to the backside for a great view, then climb the short ridge to the North that will give you a view over the Lower lake and the Northern Peaks of Yosemite in the distance. This simple tip has allowed me to enjoy Yosemite and the Cathedral range with so many friends that consider this one of the best views in the Park.

Best Time to Hike Cathedral Lakes

• July–October ideal
• Early season = snow
• Fall = fewer crowds
• Early morning = best light + parking

For a deeper look at backpacking Cathedral Lakes, campsite strategy, and why Upper Cathedral Lake stands out, read our Trail-Tested Cathedral Lakes guide.

Lower Cathedral Lake

Lower Cathedral lake sits in a bowl at the base of the mountain, surrounded by meadow on the east and forest on the West and granite on the North and South sides. Lower Cathedral to some is considered one of the most beautiful granite surrounded lakes in the entire park. Lower Cathedral Lakes got a new trail entrance several years back aimed at saving the meadow to the east of the shoreline. The Trailhead distance is about 3.5 miles to the lake with a steep switchback climb early. From the new Parking area add an additional .9 miles to your hike that is flat and easy walking near the roadway.

Visitors will often go to lower lake at settle in on the granite shores for a long afternoon in Yosemite, unfortunately never making it to upper Cathedral. Walking to the north side of the lake and following the water shoreline to the backside visitors are greeted with a great vantage view of Tenaya lake and the granite fields below Mt Hoffman.

Upper Cathedral Lake

We recommend that visitors hike to Upper Cathedral lake first on there ventures and walking around the lake to the North side of the shores, taking the time to climb a small shelf so that you can see both upper and lower lake at the same time. The Hike up to Upper Cathedral Lake is roughly 1.5 miles past the new entrance trail to Lower Cathedral lake and is only a slight climb in comparison to the early climb at the trailhead. In total distance from the new parking area is about 4.5 miles to the Upper Lake shore if you hike directly to the lake.

The backside of Upper Cathedral also provides great camping for backpackers, good fishing for back country fisherman and the best reflection opportunities of Cathedral peak in the the lake. Views of Tresidder Peak to the West of the lake.

A small climb on the JMT to the South of Upper Cathedral will also give way to views of Echo Peaks and the Yosemite back country.

When To Go

Cathedral Lakes really should be on everyone’s bucket list to accomplish if you are into hiking. At 9,000 feet in elevation this hike is not for everyone and physical fitness and hydration should be considered before venturing up this trail. The trail is fantastic at any point that Tioga Pass is open May- Nov?

Do expect crowds as not only is this hike popular it also is part of the JMT so plenty of backpackers on the trail as well.

Where to Park

Cathedral Lakes trailhead is just west of the Toulumne Visitors Center. Located between Visitors Center and Polly dome Trail. In recent years the Parking for Cathedral has changed as they are no longer allowing roadside parking at the trailhead. Visitors now will find a paved lot about 1 mile East of the Trailhead that serves as the areas primary parking lot. A trail that travels parallel to the road can be found at the visitors center. Other Parking is found in a small lot just past the trailhead facing the Tuolumne Meadow.

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Additional Area attractions:

For those looking to add to the Cathedral Lakes experience and hike a bit more in this region the following locations are worth your attention:

Climbing Mt Tresidder Peak

Climbing Cathedral Peak Granite

Echo Lakes

Sunrise Lakes