Young Lakes via Dog Lake Trail

Overview

This is classic Tuolumne country: bright granite, lodgepole pine, and a trio of glassy alpine lakes tucked beneath Ragged Peak. Expect about 14 miles total if you make a loop (out the eastern branch, back the western), with roughly 2,400–2,800 feet of gain. Strong hikers can tackle it in a long day (plan 6–8 hours), but it really shines as an overnight when the evening calm hits the water.

Why go

You get three different lakes in one basin—Lower for wide shores and Ragged Peak reflections, Middle for a quieter feel, and Upper for a dramatic granite cirque and that “infinity pool” vibe. Along the way: subalpine forest, sloping meadows, and open ridges with big Cathedral Range views. It’s a proper High Sierra sampler that still feels wild.

Route notes (loop recommended)

Start at the Dog Lake/Lembert Dome area and grind up a steep initial climb (~500 feet in the first half-mile). Take the eastern branch to the lakes for better scenery: cross Delaney Creek around 1.8 miles (can be a deep ford early season), pass a gorgeous Dingley Creek meadow, then merge with the western branch near 4.4 miles. A bend and short climb at ~5.2 miles delivers the first lake; the path can get vague near its outlet en route to the second. Reaching the third lake requires a short, steep, rocky push on an informal use path beside a stream—worth it for the cirque views. Return on the western branch: less undulating, one brief climb, then a steady descent through lodgepole pine.

Difficulty and conditions

The elevation gain is real, the footing gets rocky in places, and the basin sits near 10,000 feet—pace yourself and hydrate. Early in the season you may find lingering snow and a cold, thigh-deep Delaney Creek ford; in midsummer, afternoon thunderstorms and voracious mosquitoes are common. Waterproof boots help with crossings, and insect repellent is not optional.

Permits and regulations

Overnights require a wilderness permit tied to your entry trailhead (via Dog Lake or via Glen Aulin). The reservation system uses a 24‑week advance lottery; typical fees are an application fee plus a per‑person charge if awarded. Pick up by 11 a.m. on your start day. Bear canisters are mandatory, and campfires are prohibited above 9,600 feet—this includes the Young Lakes basin. Pets are not allowed.

Best time to hike

Go when Tioga Road is open and the high country has melted out—usually summer into early fall. Early season brings water and snow challenges; mid/late summer brings the best access and wild evening light on the lakes, but also mosquitoes and potential afternoon storms. Start early for cooler temps and steadier weather, and bring warm layers—nights can hover near freezing even in summer.

Tips

• Do the loop: east branch in, west branch out for variety and views.
• If you only visit one lake, push to the upper—it’s the showstopper.
• Expect vague tread near the first lake’s outlet; keep your bearings along the stream toward the upper basin.
• Tioga Road access and overnight parking windows can affect logistics late season—plan accordingly.