I recommend not checking out Tuolumne Meadows. The best part of the trip was stopping along…read moreOlmstead Point and Tenaya Lake before we got to the Meadows. The Meadows were swampy and not much to look at. There were also a crazy amount of mosquitoes, so definitely bring bugspray if you head out there. If you want to see a nice flat meadow area, I recommend checking out Yosemite Valley, with views of two of the best waterfalls in the area, Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls.

Beautiful as always. We came in late September 2025 and watched the sunrise over the meadow as we…read moredrove through after our stay at Porcupine Flat campground. The meadow was covered in frost and nearly blinding ad the sun hit it. It was about 35 degrees outside so we for-went our hike on pothole dome and just went for the scenic drive.

The scenery of Tenaya Lake is absolutely stunning from every angle, attracting photographers to…read morevisit and press shutters. However, tons of mosquitoes were assembling here, chasing and attacking you. Repellents are useless under such situation. Be careful!

One of my favorite places in Yosemite. In the summer it's all about the swimming in the beautiful…read moreshallow waters on the edge of the lake with little boulders to sit and sunbathe on. In the fall/winter we enjoyed walking on the beaches and watching the sunrise on the lake that was covered in a layer of steam.

Beautiful trail just outside of Yosemite off of Highway 140 in El Portal. My husband and I hiked…read moreabout 2.5 miles of the trail mid June. The whole trail is 4.5 miles one way- about 9 miles round trip if you want to go all the way to Hite Cove. We wanted to go all the way to the end, however temperatures in the canyon rise fast during the summer and it was easily 100 degrees by noon. The trail follows up above the Merced River. There were a few times when you can get right down to the river. About 1.5-2 miles in, there is a section with rocks that looks like it is made for jumping in the river. The trail is entirely single track with some areas with steep drop offs. Make sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and bug spray. There is very little shade and the trail is almost completely exposed. To find the trail, just look for the Red Bud Lodge and park right across the street. There is a sign that points just to the trailhead next to the lodge. I would recommend to come as early as possible if you are coming in the summertime.

Considering that everything else in El Portal is some pee stained remnant from the Sears catalog,…read morewe didn't have high hopes for the 'trail' that came recommended. It's not that encouraging as you drive up either. Seems very average and nondescript. As it was our first night in the greater Yosemite area, we definitely wanted to get out and so we went for it. In retrospect, I would say it was one of the nicer hikes we went on. You walk high above the Merced River on a narrow trail amongst wild flowers and with a beautiful view of the mountains. The power of the river and the beauty of the land impressed all of us. It and easy/intermediate hike. One drawback is that it's not a loop. So you can go as long as you want (to the end even) and come back. We went and hour and turned around. Recommend.

Before 2010, the only time I'd been to Tuolumne Meadows was a day trip from Crane Flat when I was a…read moreteenager. And I saw this large rock with a slightly slanted side, and thought "hey, I can go up there." It took about 29 years :-D, but I made it to the top of Lembert Dome in 2010. It's a pretty easy hike, and takes less than an hour to get to the top. There are two ways to go, and both start with a slightly steep uphill. Lembert Dome is at the end of a short spur. It's such an accessible hike that I saw a wide range of ages at the top, from pre-teens to those even older than me (I've been 29 for many years now). And why not? It's rock climbing without a lot of effort. The view is tops all around. And it's probably the only way to get a look of all of Tuolumne Meadows. Note also that the part that can easily be seen from the Meadows is *not* the highest point. If you're reading this, you already know that Yosemite National Park is not just the Valley. You could have a great vacation in this section alone. And if you do, then going to the top of Lembert Dome should be on your itinerary.

What an amazing hike to do, especially with loved ones/family. I did this hike with my wife and…read morekids ( ages 7 and 3) on 8/19/2017. We started our hike at 9 am and reached the top at 10:30. I would rate this hike easy to moderate for small kids which means you may have to pick up little ones on the way up or down every now and again but they will enjoy the hike. We saw that there was a 60% chance of thunderstorms the day of our trip but since lighting strikes Lembert Dome every month during the year, and last month when I was here it rained along with a thunderstorm we didn't let that keep us from enjoying the beautiful day. We sat on the summit and had brunch which consisted of; Veggie corn dogs, Chick'n Sandwich (Gardein), Spirulina snacks and Organic coconut bars. We then hiked towards the "lip" (see photo) of Lembert Dome where you can overseen Tuolumne Meadow. We saw 3 rock climbers making there way to the top (see photo). It was so beautiful up there and my kids loved it. My daughter said as we reached the top "this is the best day of my life". As a dad it was so wonderful to hear that. Hopefully she will love and cherish the outdoors too. The weather changed very quickly while on the summit. It became very windy and we could see and hear two separate thunderstorms in the distance. While we were taking a video it began to rain in an instant and the wind blew so cold that the rain came down as very light snow that melted before it touched the ground. It was a bit scary at first because we had to run to find cover under some pine trees that are located right where you can find a small rock climbing path to get to the lip or hike back to the other part of the dome. Fortunately, it only rained for about 5 minutes, but it came on us so fast our hearts were racing. We were the only people on this side of the dome, but afterwards we had a lot to talk about. If I could post a video of this on Yelp I would and you would hear the thunderstorm broke up our video and began to rain on us. After our hike down we decided to hike to Tuolomne Meadows and then to nearby Soda Springs. My children caught several frogs on the way to the lodge and Soda Springs (Tuolumne River) and on the hike back to our car my wife spotted a snake in the grass and I was able to get a photo with it (see attached photos). This is my 2nd favorite hike off Highway 120 because it is easy, great with the family, the views are AMAZING, and there is a high chance of rain and thunderstorms regularly which add a bit of adrenaline to it. Check out my other Yelp reviews of Yosemite Hikes.

Pro tip: Take the shuttle (approximately $15 per person round-trip). You take it from the Main…read moreLodge and they run every 20-30mins from 7amish to 730pmish (as of Aug 2025). You want to get off at Red's Meadow and hike to the falls. It's easy-easy/moderate and is the shortest distance to the falls. Do not take it from Devil's Postpile because it will add 1.5 miles of open sun hike to the falls. Once there, reward yourself with glass of wine and lunch. The water is cool to cold (depending on the time of year) and refreshing. Highly recommended

There's almost a guaranteed rainbow and maybe even a double rainbow if you're lucky at Rainbow…read moreFalls! From the shuttle stop, it's a 1.6 mile exposed hike to the falls, then some stairs to the bottom. We were prepared wearing our swimsuits to take a dip in the frigid water! Totally worth it. So beautiful!

One of the most beautiful places in the area and that's saying a lot. Amazing trail starting a Big…read moreVirginia Lake and climbing to above 10000 ft and passing several more. It's like something you would see in the movies. As far as trails go they are good and well kept. Starting at Virginia which is seemingly the only one around and before you know it You've passed several lakes, Big Valley, Blue Lake, Green Lake, Trumbull Lake and Moat Lake a far piece up the trail. This particular trail is about 10miles out and back but you can push on or go back at any time. If you only walked 1 mile you would enjoy. Amazing views. Two bald eagles near the 10ft level as well as other wildlife. Even an old miners cabin that is said to be from the 1800s. My first time on this hike but not my last. Highly highly recommended.

HAD I KNOWN THIS WAS THE LAST TIME…read more.. Those who know me, know that I'm not much of a backpacker. The whole idea of sleeping in a bag, on air, in the cold, without a morning shower just doesn't appeal to me. All the years I've been hiking, decades, I only recently started backpacking. Goes back to the words of dad, "how can you say you don't like it if you don't try it?" Of course, he was referring to food, I'm the one that applies it to everything else. Hiking SisTa researched and planned to lead this trip for 10 crew members. Why only 10? Cuz she was able to obtain a permit for 10 people. Yes, a permit is required. Our first night was spent at Trumbull campground, half mile from the Virginia Lakes Trailhead, in the Hoover Wilderness, where she reserved a group campsite, for a reasonable fee. As the sun rose, so did we. With coffee brewin', oatmeal stewin', we prepped our gear for a seven mile trek with a gain/loss elevation of 1,500 ft. Trailhead sits at 9,805ft, with the highest point being Summit Pass at 11,100 ft. With the sun glowing in the bluest of blue skis, the brisk air was a sure sign it was going to be perfect weather for this heavy duty hike. The first lake we came across, but didn't cross, was Blue Lake. This lake separates two mountains & runs longer than it does wide. Just above the lake is an old dilapidated miner's cabin. Miner's sure were short & thin, the entrance was barely big enough for me to fit through, let alone full grown men. The interior is decorated with all things left behind; old furniture, including a table which still has items sitting on it. Did ya pack your fishing pole? At 10,240ft, big boulder create a frame for Cooney Lake. The first fishing hole since the trailhead. About another 100ft of elevation gain from Cooney, is Frog Lake. Rightfully named, we could hear the frog choir, ribbiting songs of the frog. Ok, enough stunning views of amazing lakes, we found ourselves in a green meadow. Smh, This trek is so amazing, can't believe it's real, but it is, & it's spectacular. Till we hit the switchbacks up the summit. Ugh!!! Visions of the 99 switchbacks hiking up to the summit of Mt. Whitney filled my mind. Pinch me, I can't believe my eyes, I'm so on top of the world. At 11,000 ft. the top of the summit Mother Nature is spread out, all virgin like, virtually untouched by man, she is so astonishingly beautiful. Trekking down the switchbacks heading toward a green meadow & super tall pine trees, was entirely the reward we needed after a strenuous ascent up the other side, to keep calm & hike on. Ok, well, we didn't really keep calm. Gasps, ooooh's, aha's, & all things expression, comprehensive sentences were just not. Hiking along a lake, we took a sharp right, just a few feet in, we were "home". We got really lucky, having met & chatted up a ranger on the way in, she told us where the estate sized campsite was, we found it, and it was unoccupied. Woo hoo!!! Perfect!! Not a minute to breath, we set up camp and prepped for dinner. As the sun set, the air turned crisp & shadows danced across the arid mountains creating dramatic performance by nature. Sitting around the campfire, in such peaceful surroundings, set the scene for reflection, appreciation, and memories that will last a lifetime. Bonds between all of us got even greater. This trip, especially, will never be forgotten, for it was the last time I would see & spend time with Beloved Mark, Linda, and Muku. I'm so glad I set my distaste for backpacking aside, otherwise I would have lived a day with regret. Had I known this would be the last time I see Mark, Linda, and Muku, I wouldn't have done anything different. Well, maybe I would have taken a swig of Fireball from Muku's flask, MAYBE. The following day was a slow and cold start. After a splash of frigid lake water on the face, a hot, hearty breakfast, we packed our day packs and headed to Green Lake, West Lake and Bergona Lake. The saying, once you've seen one lake, you've seen them all, does not apply here. Each lake offers distinct perspectives. From its location, to its surroundings, each lake seemed to get more & more stunning. IN A LOOP: While this trek is not a loop, it is a remarkably breathtaking backpacking trip. One I will never forget. The views, the experience, the quality time spent without the hustle and bustle of city life is simply invaluable. DISCLAIMER: Hiking is not something that can be taken lightly. It can be life-threatening as you see and hear on the news, people die or get lost all time. Please, if you are going to hike, never go alone and prepare for the worst, hope for the best. Remember when going for a hike, no matter how short you think it may be, always be prepared. Carry at least two liters of water for every five miles (more if the weather is warm), protein bar, nuts, and electrolytes. Wear sturdy lug sole shoes and protective clothing.

Parker lake is a little trail that's a hidden gem just off the side of June Lake. It's an easy high…read morewith just a few hundred elevation gain. It has lots of shaded area on trail, a small creek stream, once to the lake it's a beautiful site to take in. Great for a beginner overnight backpacking trip. Great fishing and a dog friendly trail.

I hiked almost 4 miles on Parker lake trail with 640 feet elevation gain and it was a beautiful…read morehike! You have to drive a few miles on a dirt road to get to the trailhead but it's passable for a sedan. No fees or recreation passes needed. The hike starts uphill for a bit with great views of the mountains, then you hike along a creek amongst apsen trees, and at the end you get to Parker lake where it was super windy.

Have you ever gone somewhere that reminded you just how big the world truly is? Twin Lakes did that…read morefor me and I'd rank it as my most spectacular Eastern discovery to date! It starts on the drive in. The panoramic views of the valley are breathtaking and the mountains so impressive that their scale is felt on first sight. That feeling only grows as you get closer until they surround and you realize how truly massive they are. The lakes are equally beautiful and breathtaking. Clear and cold water flows from the mountain into the two lakes. The local conservation organizations make sure this area stays clean and filled with fish, making this a fantastic angling destination. We enjoyed the shores of Upper Twin Lakes this Memorial Day weekend and found plenty of places to set up for the afternoon. Parking was a little tricky, so just prepare for that and a walk from the car with your things to ensure a fantastic time. The water in May was quite cold and shallow a ways out, so waders are recommended for anyone who wants to fish from shore, though there were many who were successful without them. All in all, this is a rad area to explore with lots of camping options around. I'm looking forward to another visit soon.

Loved this place! Beautiful scenery. Friendly folks. Great sites! WiFi works great when campground…read moreisn't full

This review is for Crystal Lake Trail which was a ~3.2 miles round trip that took ~2 hour to…read morecomplete. This was one of the more strenuous hikes in Mammoth Lake due to the continuous incline to the top with an overlooking view of Lake George and Lake Mary! Trail can be difficult to follow in some areas. Best view of Crystal Lake would be on the right before you follow the trail to the left. Crowded with limited parking available. Short video of the hike for those interested! https://youtu.be/aHW-s-pHAIw

+ Fun, easy hike. 3.5mi took 1.5hr. + Beautiful scenery…read more Pristine lake. Just like in the photo. + Whoa, the ants are huge here! - Lotta mosquitos around Mammoth Lakes hikes. - Very crowded albeit large parking. + Free parking. . 2 restrooms by the trailhead.

My first time doing this hike and loved it little bit of a challenge, but so worth doing it. There…read moreis an incline so just take your time and take breaks. Really pretty views and the lake was really beautiful. It's worth doing the hike.

The trailhead is off the June Lake Loop between the Four Seasons Lodge and Double Eagle Resort…read more Road signs mark the turn off to a short dirt road that crosses a little wooden bridge. Similar to Crystal Lake (one of the Mammoth Lakes), Fern Lake didn't have special features like cascades, unique colors in the water, or impressive surrounding cliffs. An island with tree obscures seeing across the lake. The trail and Fern Lake had no ferns. It's a good lake but I saw five prettier lakes the day before when going to 1000 Island Lake. Reaching Fern Lake requires a short 3.1-mile roundtrip hike with steep 1500' elevation change. I didn't go to Yost Lake but took a few extra steps towards Yost Lake where a footbridge over Fern Creek was an attractive watery sight. Unexpectedly, the parking lot provided the most entertaining part of the visit. Like watching a nature video, I saw a coyote (sans Acme rocket booster) catch a squirrel (not a road runner) in the parking lot.