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A worthy trail to a cluster of secluded High Sierra lakes.


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Map Key

6.2

Miles

9.9

KM

Point to Point

9,645' 2,940 m

High

7,499' 2,286 m

Low

2,165' 660 m

Up

722' 220 m

Down

9%

Avg Grade (5°)

37%

Max Grade (21°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · Views · Wildflowers

Description

Despite the name, there are only seven lakes at Ten Lakes (three bodies of water are now technically considered ponds). But that's no reason to avoid this trail. Yes, there are plenty of trails in Yosemite far more famous than Ten Lakes, but among those in the know, Ten Lakes is considered an overlooked gem. The trailhead is located off Tioga Road, 20 miles east of Crane Flat. The trail climbs gradually to Half Moon Meadow, then ascends steeply to 9,500-foot Ten Lakes Pass. Enjoy the great views of the High Sierra, then descend 500 feet into Ten Lakes Basin, and explore the beautiful lakes.

Thanks to guidebook author and photographer, James Kaiser, for sharing this trail description. If youre interested in learning more details about great day hikes, weather, camping / lodging, and geology, check out his book: .

Contacts

Land Manager: NPS - Yosemite

Shared By:

James Kaiser

Trail Ratings

  4.2 from 13 votes

#7159

Overall
  4.2 from 13 votes
5 Star
46%
4 Star
46%
3 Star
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2 Star
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1 Star
8%
Trail Rankings

#559

in California

#7,159

Overall
4 Views Last Month
7,536 Since Sep 15, 2015
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

Hiking on the Ten Lakes Trail!
Nov 11, 2015 near Yosemit…, CA
View of Ten Lakes region after starting the descent from Ten Lakes Pass
Apr 5, 2016 near Yosemit…, CA
Wildlife abound at Yosemite.
Nov 11, 2015 near Yosemit…, CA

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

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Check-Ins

Aug 14, 2021
Shawn Dirksen
Jul 3, 2021
John Wilson
Can't wait to do our first Yosemite trip! 6.2mi
May 17, 2021
Whitney Corrine
Aug 14, 2020
Ryan Gillikin
8h 30m
Aug 12, 2020
Ryan Gillikin
12h 15m
Jul 8, 2020
Sean Curren
6.3mi
Jun 22, 2020
Sean Sherry
Aug 14, 2019
Spencer Hiltbrand
Trail is well maintained at this time. Great hike and the lakes are refreshingly cool, clear, and full of fish. 6.2mi
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