Elizabeth Lake
A steady high-country climb to a glacier-carved lake beneath Unicorn Peak, with an optional loop around the shore.
Route overview
Climb from Tuolumne Meadows to Elizabeth Lake, optionally circle the lake, then return the same route.
Elizabeth Lake offers a quieter full-day alternative from Tuolumne Meadows. The trail climbs steadily through forest before reaching the lake beneath Unicorn Peak. The high elevation and longer duration require more preparation than the moderate elevation figure suggests.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park, California
- Distance
- 11 km round-trip
- Typical duration
- 6–7 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 305 m
- Best season
- July to October, depending on snow and Tioga Road access
- Trail type
- Out-and-back with optional lake circuit
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No wilderness permit for a day hike; overnight travel requires the appropriate wilderness permit
Safety context
Monitor altitude, thunderstorms, early-season snow and mosquitoes; avoid relying on untreated lake water Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Monitor altitude, thunderstorms, early-season snow and mosquitoes; avoid relying on untreated lake water
Highlights
Elizabeth Lake, Unicorn Peak, subalpine forest, alpine scenery
Why find a buddy
The full-day duration and altitude make pacing and shared safety checks valuable
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.