Top 10 Gorgeous Lakes in Yosemite USA
Yosemite is known as one of the highest waterfalls in the world. It is also popular for its moonshine during the spring and early summer.
Furthermore, the national park serves as a sanctuary for around 400 species of animals. Its wildlife ranges from amphibians and reptiles to birds, mammals, and aquatic species.
A vista of lakes, granite peaks, grasslands, rich vegetation, and three different waterfalls are natural gems that entice visitors to explore Yosemite.
There are also plenty of outdoor recreational activities available within the national park. Several trails will take you to various lakes and scenic spots, making it a delight, especially for nature lovers.
While there are about 2,000 lakes in Yosemite, we have selected the 10 most gorgeous lakes in Yosemite, USA.
- Tenaya Lake
If you’re looking for the largest lake in Yosemite that’s easily accessible, visit Tenaya Lake. It has a lake with views of granite peaks and provinces. It is usually not crowded and allows you to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and boating.
Hiking, walking, and bird watching are also possible activities by this lake. Short and easy routes suitable for all skill levels are available here.
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Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is known to have the longest hiking season in Yosemite Park. It offers views of lakes, granite walls, valleys, vast forests, and wildflowers.
Some interesting places are Smith Peak, Wapama Falls, Poupenot Trail, and O’Shaughnessy Dam. This lake is less popular than other lakes.
Thus it is less crowded and perfect for those who want to be at one with nature and enjoy a quiet place.
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Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is located at the base of Bald Mountain. It offers a view of the lake surrounded by rocks.
It is open to non-motorized boating and is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. It has an easy-to-moderate route that is open throughout the year.
Along its trail, you can view educational exhibits of local flora and fauna. The lake campground is located in the woods with views of wildflowers. Other activities include hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching.
- Cathedral Lakes
One trail at Cathedral Lakes consists of two lakes, Lower Cathedral Lake and Upper Cathedral Lake. Tuolumne Meadows is the trailhead to explore the lakes.
Hikers usually rest on the granite banks and enjoy views of the waters of Lower Cathedral Lake before heading to Upper Cathedral Lake.
Both lakes have shorelines with campsites that are ideal for relaxing. Animals that can be seen along the way include bears, ducks, and deer.
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Youth Lakes
The Young Lakes consists of three lakes – Lower, Middle, and Upper Lake. Two trails are available to access the lower Young Lakes, while the middle and upper can be accessed via the Lower Trail.
The sights to be seen here are vast alpine meadows and granite peaks, including Sheep Peak, North Peak, and Mount Conness.
Tents are mostly pitched on the lower lake, while the middle and upper lakes are well-suited for those who want to camp with some privacy.
In addition, the Middle Lake is considered ideal for fishing, and the Upper Lakes provides you with an elevated scenic view. Other activities to partake in this area include peak climbing, hiking, and photography.
- Dog Lake
Dog Lake takes its name from a sheepdog seen by Robert Marshall of the US Geological Survey when he visited the lake. There are lakes surrounded by mangroves, granite mountains, and meadows to enjoy the scenery.
A short walk on an easy trail is required to reach this less crowded lake. Other trails are also available should you further explore the surrounding area.
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Eleanor Lake
If you opt to visit the largest natural lake in Yosemite, visit Eleanor Lake. To reach the lake, you have to make a long climb on an easy trail.
Canoe and shore fishing is a popular activity here. Black bears, eagles, deer, and wildflowers can be seen here.
There are also campsites available near the lake. Lake Eleanor is suited for those who enjoy peace and solitude while surrounded by nature.
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Geller Lakes
The Gelor Lake has two lakes – Upper Gelor Lake and Lower Gelor Lake. You can reach the lower Galore Lake through a short but moderately difficult hike. From there, you can hike to Upper Galore Lake.
After exploring the Galore Lakes, you can head to Upper Galore Lake to see an abandoned 19th-century mine. Beyond that, you can head further north to see Granite Lakes.
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Ostrander Lake
Ostrander Lake is a granite mountain lake with abundant wildflowers. Its trailhead is the Ostrander Lake Parking Area, and it will take approximately five to eight hours to reach the mountain lake. Although a long hike is required to reach the lake, you’ll enjoy views of rolling meadows and streams.
You can also indulge in several outdoor activities here, including horse riding, hiking, and photography. Ostrander Lake is popular among backpackers who prefer to enjoy nature without crowds of tourists.
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May Lake
Spend a day exploring May Lake, known for an easy short hike. The lake can easily be explored in a day. The lake is accessible via a one-mile hike through Tioga Pass.
There are views of the surrounding mountains and Half Dome during the hike. Its lake camp offers opportunities for relaxation and fishing.
After exploring May Lake, you can hike Mount Hoffman or Cloud’s Rest Mountain or visit the Lambert Dome rock formation and Glen Aulin Camp.
Outdoor Adventure in Yosemite
Yosemite is home to many lakes, rock formations, forests, and waterfalls. Please choose from the above lakes and indulge in activities along its shores and on its waters.
From swimming and fishing to boating, kayaking, and hiking, the Lakes of Yosemite have a lot to offer.
Overall, this place is a nature and adventure lover’s paradise, and the best way to enjoy more of it would be to stay in a cozy pet-friendly cabin with your fur pal.
Thanks for visiting US Map of State