Lembert Dome Loop

Route Description for Lembert Dome Loop

​Lembert Dome Loop is an epic excursion in Yosemite National Park that is ideal for those conditioning for a more technical Sierra Nevada summit hike or simply those seeking a more relaxing adventure. Wander through the lush meadowlands and brush, before ascending the rugged granite rock. Hikers should take note that the granite outcrop is extremely slippery after rainfall, so mind your footing and exercise caution. Additionally, high winds are common atop Lembert Dome, so make sure to secure your hat or you might lose it! Yosemite National Park charges an entrance fee, so be sure to refer to the NPS website for the pricing guide and more information regarding the park.

Seeking a more relaxing, tranquil experience in Yosemite National Park? If so, then the Lembert Dome Loop will tick that box. Located above Tuolumne Meadows and the Tuolumne River, this trek reveals awe-inspiring views. From atop the granite peak, you will feel as though you cheated the system to be rewarded with breathtaking vistas after such an easy ascent, but hey, we’ll take it! Offering epic panoramas and easy terrain, this adventure presents the perfect excuse to get the whole family out into the fresh air. When planning your next adventure in Yosemite, be sure to add the Lembert Dome Loop to your itinerary.

Embark on your journey along the Lembert Dome Loop from the Dog Lake Trailhead. From here, begin your hike by trekking north along the Dog Lake Trail. This section of the route will guide you through lush meadowlands around the base of Lembert Dome. Follow the Dog Lake Trail as it redirects adventurers northeast and up to an intersection, where you will veer right and track east past Dog Dome and a small pond. Soon the path will curve southeast guiding you through brush and a sparse mixed pine forest.

Eventually, you will reach a junction with the Lembert Dome Trail. At this point, you will stay right and begin your westward ascent up Lembert Dome. Note: there is no marked path up the granite outcrop, but is obviously where to wander to get to the summit. From atop the dome, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Tuolumne Meadows and several Sierra Nevada peaks including Cathedral Peak, Tuolumne Peak, Mariuolumne Dome, and many more dramatic granite summits that decorate the terrain in the west.

After you are through reveling in the picturesque scenery, head east down Lembert Dome to the junction. Instead of retracing your footing back to the trailhead, we are going to keep right and track the Lembert Dome Trail south. Mind your footing here as you descend the steep terrain, which is made more manageable by a few sets of switchbacks. Eventually, you will cross over Tioga Pass Road, before heading west along the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000. Hike west along this route past stables and a wilderness center before crossing over Tioga Pass Road, which will deliver you back to the trailhead and parking lot to mark the completion of your circuit.

Trail Highlights

Lembert Dome

Lembert Dome is a granite rock dome that protrudes from Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park. The granite outcrop towers 244 m above the meadows, making for an epic overlook of the meadowlands below and the neighboring granite summits that adorn the terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high is Lembert Dome?

Lembert Dome is a 2,882 m granite outcrop in Yosemite National Park.

What kind of feature is Lembert Dome?

Lembert Dome is a granite dome formation.

When is Lembert Dome Open?

Lembert Dome is open and accessible when Tioga Pass Road is open.

Insider Hints for Lembert Dome Loop

• After rainfall the granite rock may be slippery, so mind your footing
• Pack a lunch and have a picnic overlooking Tuolumne Meadows
• Head out early to secure a parking spot in the limited lot at the Dog Lake Trailhead
• Wear sturdy footwear as sections of the path are uneven and rugged