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Dog Lake Loop

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, California

3.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

3.71 miles

Elevation Gain

740 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Kim Baker

A short hike at the center of Tuolumne Meadows. This hike features incredible views of Cathedral Peak along the route and serene reflections all around the lake.

This 3.7 mile roundtrip hike begins at the center of Tuolumne Meadows (shuttle stop #2) at the Lembert Dome/Glen Aulin trailhead parking lot. There are restrooms and picnic tables at the east side of the lot, there you will also find the trailhead to Dog Lake. 

The trail begins at 8,500 ft and continues upward on a fairly steep incline for the first .75 miles (bring extra water) where you will come to a junction, continue straight on the Dog Lake trail. Shortly after the junction the trail becomes significantly less steep and begins to level out as you get to your destination. Dog Lake sits at 9,240 ft. 

You'll initially arrive at the south end of the lake with the option to take additional trails branching off around either side. Such a beautiful, short hike with less traffic than many other hikes in Yosemite. 

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Lake
Picnic Area
Romantic
Scenic

Dog Lake Loop Reviews

Short hike with a fairly significant incline, at least as far as the split with Lembert Dome, then it gets a little easier. The lake was pretty but the mosquitoes were terrible, cover up or wear bug spray if you're visiting during mosquito season. I'd recommend Lembert Dome over Dog Lake if you're choosing one, otherwise tackle both on a single hike. Plenty of parking and there are bathrooms at the trailhead.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Mt. Conness

Rock Climb Lembert Dome, Yosemite NP

Young Lakes

Lembert Dome via Dog Lake Trail

Enjoy a Sunset at Tuolumne Meadows

Backpack to Fletcher Lake and Summit Vogelsang Peak