Dog Lake and Lembert Dome
A combined high-country hike to quiet Dog Lake and the broad granite summit of Lembert Dome.
Route overview
Hike to Dog Lake, add the signed side trip to Lembert Dome and return to the trailhead or complete the longer loop.
This route links a forested lake with one of Tuolumne Meadows’ best-known granite viewpoints. The lake section is sheltered, while the dome introduces exposed slab walking and wide-open views. The combination makes it a varied half-day objective.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park, California
- Distance
- 6.1 km round-trip; optional approximately 8 km loop
- Typical duration
- 3–4 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 260 m
- Best season
- July to October, depending on snow and road access
- Trail type
- Out-and-back with optional loop
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No wilderness permit for a normal day hike
Safety context
Stay off Lembert Dome during thunderstorms; avoid wet, icy or snow-covered granite Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Stay off Lembert Dome during thunderstorms; avoid wet, icy or snow-covered granite
Highlights
Dog Lake, Lembert Dome, Tuolumne Meadows views, granite summit
Why find a buddy
Helpful for route choices, dome exposure and changing mountain weather
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.