Grant Lakes Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
6.5-9h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
21.6 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
916 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Immerse yourself in Yosemite’s high country along the Grant Lakes Trail. This epic hike exhibits the grandeur and diversity of the alpine wilderness. Explore the shimmering lakes bounded by impressive granite bluffs and verdant pines.

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Route Description for Grant Lakes Hike

The hike to Grant Lakes might just be one of the most scenic adventures in Yosemite National Park, as it exposes wonderful vistas of the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Traveling to such high and exposed elevations, it is important to check the forecast prior to your trek, which will mitigate the chances of getting caught in a nasty afternoon storm. Additionally, we suggest wearing layers and a sturdy pair of footwear! Note: the National Park charges an entrance fee; check out the NPS website for additional details and a pricing guide.

Once your water is packed and your camera is charged, your hike along the Grant Lakes Trail begins from the Ten Lakes Trailhead. Setting out from here, the path gradually climbs through the lush woodlands and meadowlands. As you wander, the path will intersect with several snow-melt streams, including Yosemite Creek which feeds the famous Yosemite Falls. Eventually, you will summit the Ten Lakes Pass and experience breathtaking views of the encompassing granite peaks. Here, you will take the rightmost trail down to the Grant Lakes.

The trail will deliver you to the Lower Grant Lake, before hiking east up to the Upper Grant Lake. Revel in the beauty of the shimmering alpine waters flanked by granite bluffs. After admiring the postcard-perfect scene, retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Grant Lakes Hike Trailhead

The Grant Lakes Hike departs from the Ten Lakes Trailhead off Tioga Pass Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping, Wilderness Permit Required.

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    No

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Grant Lakes Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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Grant Lakes Hike Reviews

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