Popular trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows leading to Cathedral Lakes via the John Muir Trail. The 7.6-mile round-trip hike gains 1,000 feet and offers views of Cathedral Peak and Echo Peak; accessible typically late May through October.
Cathedral Lakes are nestled at the foot of Cathedral Peak. In addition to the lakes themselves, hikers will enjoy views of Cathedral Peak and Echo Peak. The trail through this area is part of the John Muir Trail, which sees high traffic all season. The area is also popular with rock climbers. Beginning from the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center parking, the trail climbs steadily to Upper Cathedral Lake. Near the top of the climb, a spur trail leads to Lower Cathedral Lake (0.7 mile one-way to the lake). Distance: 7.6 miles (12 km) round-trip Elevation gain: 1,000 ft (300 m) Time estimate: 6-7 hours Tips & Seasonal Information Pets and bicycles are not allowed on hiking trails. This trailhead is only reachable by vehicle when Tioga Road is open, typically late May or early June to sometime in October or November. Tioga Road closes after the first significant snowfall. Overnight parking on this road, including this trailhead, ends October 15. For current road and weather information, please call 209/372-0200 (press 1, then 1).
