Place

Elizabeth Lake Trailhead

A bunch of pink wildflowers are at the edge of a lake. A snow-covered peak rises up beyond the lake.

Quick Facts

Water - Drinking/Potable, Animal-Safe Food Storage, Parking, Recycling, Restroom, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles

Enjoy the shimmering waters of Elizabeth Lake, in the heart of the Cathedral Range.

The trail climbs steadily to a glacier-carved lake at the base of Unicorn Peak. The return hike follows the same route.



Elizabeth Lake (moderately strenuous)
4.8 miles (7.7 km) round-trip; 4-5 hours
1,000 ft (305 m) elevation gain

For hiking and trail information, please visit a Wilderness Center or Visitor Center.



Hours :
Accessible only while Tioga Road is open to vehicles, from late May or early June to sometime in October or November.

Getting Here :
Begin in the B loop of the Tuolumne Meadows Campground.

Rules & Regulations :
- Stay on established trails
- Pets are not allowed on hiking trails
- Pack out what you pack in
- Bears and other wildlife can be present on trails at any time of the day or night. Feeding and approaching wildlife is dangerous and illegal! Be sure to properly store your food.
- Tioga Road closes after the first significant snowfall. Overnight parking on this road ends October 15. For current road and weather information, please call 209/372-0200.

Hazards & Warnings :
- Carry (and drink) plenty of water: a leading cause of injuries on the trail is dehydration. Be sure to treat river, stream, lake, or spring water.
- Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them, and wear sturdy footwear with good traction.
- Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and conditions.


Accessibility :
This trail is not accessible.

Yosemite National Park

Last updated: April 5, 2024