State: California
Location: Yosemite National Park
Length, One-Way: 1.5 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 8600 feet
Maximum Elevation: 9250 feet
Elevation Change: 650 feet
Best Season: July to October
Difficulty: Easy
Usage: Heavy
Death Valley Dunes
Trail Information
Begin your hike to Dog Lake from the eastern side of the Lembert Dome parking area. The Dog Lake Trail begins behind the restrooms and is signed for Lembert Dome and Dog Lake. The two trails begin together then fork within a quarter mile.
The hike begins by gently ascending. After crossing a section of granite the trail splits with the left side leading to Dog Lake. Follow this trail as it ascends to a saddle north of Lembert Dome. You’ll see the sheer western aspect of the dome to your right. To the left of the trail will be a small stream or stream bed, depending on the season in which you are hiking. This is the Dog Lake outlet.
The trail ascends approximately 500 feet before reaching a saddle and crossing the stream. The lake is less than 200 vertical feet from the saddle. You will see a trail leading eastward at this point. This route leads to the base of Lembert Dome, which you may consider climbing on the way back from Dog Lake. Continue walking northward, from the saddle you’ll ascend slightly to another fork in the trail. The left side of the fork leads to Young Lakes. Follow the right side of the trail to Dog Lake, about a quarter mile from the junction.
Directions
From Arch Rock Entrance:
Drive northward into the park toward the Yosemite Valley. Turn left on to Big Oak Flat Road and travel almost 9.5 miles to Tioga Road. Turn right on to Tioga Road and travel 39 miles to Tuolumne Meadows. Turn left on to the dirt road that leads to the Lembert Dome/Glen Aulin Trailhead. Walk east from the parking area to the trailhead, which is behind the restrooms.
