Cathedral Lake Trail is a 7 mile out and back trail located near Yosemite National Park, California that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for camping & hiking and is accessible from June until September.

The trail is fairly steep, rising 1,000 feet in about 3.5 miles. The trail is also located at high elevation, so the air is thinner, possibly causing those that are not acclimated to the elevation to tire faster, and fatigue.

The view upon arrival is worth ever bit of work it takes to get there. Cathedral Peak rises beyond a pristine alpine lake. Along side of the lake a beautiful meadow filled with wildflowers adds color to this amazing landscape. It is truly paradise. But it is essential to register early if you plan to stay overnight. The campgrounds fill up fast.

Directions from Arch Rock Entrance: Follow Highway 140 toward Yosemite Valley. Before reaching the valley turn left on to Big Oak Flat Road. Drive 9.5 miles on Big Oak Flat Road to Tioga Road. Turn right on Tioga Road and travel approximately 37 miles to the Cathedral Lake Trailhead.

At the trailhead there is a small parking lot. Overnight parking is permitted here, but be sure to clean out your car. Leaving anything with scent behind will be a disaster for your car, and for any bear that happens along. This includes food, suntan lotion, deodorant, etc.

California Travel and Tourism Commision, P.O. Box 1499 , Sacramento, CA, 95812-1499, Phone: 800-862-2543