How to Get a Cathedral Lakes Permit
Two alpine lakes shimmer beneath the granite spires of Cathedral Peak in the Yosemite high country, and the 7-mile round trip is the best introduction to the Sierra backcountry.
Check AvailabilityAbout Cathedral Lakes
Cathedral Lakes are two alpine lakes at 9,288 and 9,585 feet beneath Cathedral Peak's 10,912-foot granite spire. The 7-mile round trip from Tuolumne Meadows is Yosemite's most popular backcountry day hike, and the overnight campsites are among the most competitive permits in the park.
Cathedral Lakes is the most popular overnight destination in Yosemite's wilderness. The trailhead at Tuolumne Meadows provides access to the heart of the High Sierra without the brutal climbs of other entry points. Permits for summer weekends are gone within minutes.
The Experience
You climb through lodgepole forest, then red fir, then open granite. Cathedral Peak's distinctive spire appears on your left. The lower lake sits in a granite bowl at 9,288 feet; the upper lake is smaller and more dramatic at 9,585 feet. The water is impossibly clear. You can see 30 feet down to polished granite.
The trail leaves Tuolumne Meadows and climbs steadily through forest with occasional granite slabs. At 3 miles, the lower lake appears in its bowl beneath Cathedral Peak. The upper lake is another 0.5 miles beyond.
Most backpackers camp at the lower lake (designated sites) or continue into the backcountry toward Sunrise Lakes or beyond. The route connects to the John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail, making it a launching point for longer adventures.
What to Expect
3.5 miles one way with 1,000 feet elevation gain
Two alpine lakes with granite surroundings
Trailhead elevation 8,600 feet at Tuolumne Meadows
Clear water, often snow-free by late June
Heavy day use on weekends (less overnight competition midweek)
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Permit Requirements
Wilderness permit required for overnight camping
Bear canisters required (mandatory in all Yosemite wilderness)
Camp 100 feet from lakes and trails
No camping within designated day-use zone near lower lake
Maximum group size 8 people for trailhead quotas
Gear & Preparation
Required Gear
- •Bear canister (required in Yosemite wilderness)
- •Water filter (lake water is cold and clear)
- •Sun protection for exposed granite
- •Warm layers for 9,000+ feet nights
Hazards & Safety
Afternoon thunderstorms in July-August
Mosquitoes can be brutal June-early July
Bears are habituated and aggressive about food
Best Time to Visit
Late June through September. Snow typically melts by late June. July has best wildflowers but worst mosquitoes. September has the clearest skies and fewest crowds but cold nights and possible early snow.
100+ wilderness permits, extensive backcountry experience
This guide is based on personal experience obtaining wilderness permits and is regularly updated to reflect current policies and strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a Cathedral Lakes permit?
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Cathedral Lakes permits require advance reservations. Book online as soon as reservations open for your desired dates.
When is the best time to visit Cathedral Lakes?
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Late June through September. Snow typically melts by late June. July has best wildflowers but worst mosquitoes. September has the clearest skies and fewest crowds but cold nights and possible early snow.
What gear do I need for Cathedral Lakes?
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Essential gear includes: Bear canister (required in Yosemite wilderness), Water filter (lake water is cold and clear), Sun protection for exposed granite, Warm layers for 9,000+ feet nights.
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Cancellations happen every day. PermitSnag monitors Cathedral Lakes availability 24/7 and alerts you the moment a spot opens up.
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