Upper Young Lake

Overview

Upper Young Lake is the highest and most secluded of the Young Lakes trio, tucked into a glacial cirque of polished granite beneath high-country peaks. You get that classic Sierra mix of open subalpine forest, bright meadows, and a mirror-still lake framed by rock—without the usual Yosemite crowds. It’s a fantastic reward if you’re willing to go beyond the signed trail to the lower and middle lakes.

Getting There

Most hikers start near Lembert Dome in Tuolumne Meadows and follow the signed trail toward Lower and Middle Young Lakes. From Middle, an unmaintained use-trail continues to Upper, generally following the creek and small waterfalls. Expect a short, steeper push with bits of rock-hopping; cairns help, and staying left of the creek on the final climb is common. A downloadable map and trekking poles make this last section much easier.

What Makes It Special

Upper feels wilder than the other two: fewer tents, bigger skies, and that amphitheater-of-granite vibe that makes sunsets pop thanks to the alignment of surrounding peaks. On calm mornings and evenings, the reflections are superb for photos.

Season and Conditions

Tioga Road access means this area is typically a June–October destination, depending on snow. Early season can bring lingering snow and high, cold creeks; late summer often delivers the smoothest travel. Mosquitoes can be fierce in early to mid-summer—especially up at Upper—usually easing by late August, though it varies by year. Afternoon winds or storms can roll through; start early and keep an eye on the forecast.

Camping and Regulations

Overnight trips require a wilderness permit. Bear-resistant canisters are mandatory for all food and scented items, and there are no toilets at the lakes—plan your backcountry bathroom routine and follow Leave No Trace. Because the area sits above 9,600 feet, campfires are prohibited; bring a stove for cooking. Camp well away from the water and out of sight of the trail to keep the basin feeling wild.

Wildlife and Fishing

Brook trout are common in all three lakes, and patient anglers do well during the evening rise. Black bears roam the high country even this far from the road, another reason to use canisters and keep a clean camp. Always filter or treat water from creeks and lakes.

Best Time to Visit

• Best months: late July through September for dry trails and fewer bugs.
• Best days: weekdays for maximum solitude.
• Best light: sunrise for glassy reflections; sunset for alpenglow on the surrounding peaks.

Trail Tips

• The use-trail between Middle and Upper fades in spots; bring a downloaded map and follow cairns.
• Poles help on the steeper, rockier section by the creek/waterfall.
• In peak bug season, a head net and strong repellent make life much better.
• Filter from the creek that parallels the route or the lake’s inlets for clearer water.
• No campfires—pack a stove and extra warm layers instead.