Young Lakes Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
5.5-7.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
21.7 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.
586 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Young Lakes Hike is an incredible adventure through Yosemite’s high country that exhibits sweeping panoramas of the Sierra Nevada Mountains as you make your way to the shimmering alpine lakes. Laden with stunning scenery, you will be motivated every step of the way on this spectacular hike!

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Route Description for Young Lakes Hike

The Young Lakes Hike is a wonderful adventure that travels through various terrain types that exhibit the beauty and diversity of Yosemite. Wander past the Soda Springs, through Tuolumne Meadows, and up granite bluffs to picturesque glittering lakes. With ample scenery to admire, you will be distracted from your tired feet. Take note that much of the path is exposed, so be sure to wear sun protection and pack plenty of water. The National Park charges an entrance fee; check out the NPS website for the most up-to-date pricing guide.

Setting out from the trailhead, track the unnamed path northeast through the meadowlands and over the Tuolumne River to reach Parsons Memorial Lodge and the Soda Springs. From here, hook onto the leftmost Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000 (PCT) in a northwest direction through meadows, exposing beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Follow this route over Delaney Creek and you will confront an intersection. Veer right here to be diverted onto the Young Lakes Trail, which will climb, and weave through mixed pine forest up to the lakes.

Explore the basin and its charming lakes, hemmed by the granite cliffs of Ragged Peak. Admire the picturesque scene and dip your feet in the chilly waters, before retracing your footsteps along the path.

Getting to the Young Lakes Hike Trailhead

The Young Lakes Hike departs from the Trailhead off Tioga Pass Road across from the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping,

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Young Lakes Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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Young Lakes Hike Reviews

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