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May Lake Trailhead, Yosemite National Park

4.9
#10 of 18 in Trails in Yosemite National Park
Hiking Trail · Hidden Gem · Nature / Park
Test your fitness at May Lake Trailhead, a relatively short trail that challenges with its constant slope. As you climb, look for local wildlife and take in the natural sights, including a conifer forest, slabs of granite, and the iconic Half Dome. At the top, reap your rewards with a sweeping view of the lake and nearby mountains. Round trip is 3.9 km (2.4 mi); to cool off afterwards, find the areas in the lake without water lines and take a swim. Put May Lake Trailhead at the forefront of your travel plans using our Yosemite National Park trip itinerary maker tool.
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Tours to May Lake Trailhead

FROM $1,338 BOOK WITH VIATOR 5 Day Yosemite Backpacking - Amazing Sunsets
Duration: 5 days
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FROM $1,338 BOOK WITH VIATOR 5 Day Yosemite Backpacking - Three Summits
Duration: 5 days
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May Lake Trailhead reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
54 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • By Susan S
    Beautiful alpine lake, easy trail, few people in the fall. Can continue a steep , fun climb up Mt Hoffman ( which is off trail) , but I would recommend doing it!  more »
  • By Offgrid_nomad
    Great morning/afternoon hike. Moderate/easy Difficulty. Only 2.4mi round trip. This one will fool you when you get to the first rock face and you may start to think you're going the wrong way but...  more »
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Google
  • By Jason Tan
    May Lake (about 2.5 miles round trip) This is a great, short hike for those visiting the eastern side of Yosemite. You’re definitely making your way up but the incline is never too steep. After making your way to the beautiful lake, go back to the trail like you’re heading to the parking lot and then climb the ridge on your left. The view from this hilltop is expansive, giving you a panoramic shot of the granite mountains that cover Yosemite. Look to the right and see Half Dome in the distance.
  • By Edwin Lindsay
    Great hike. Uphill the whole way, but there are multiple rest points. The whole trip is worth it. The lake at the top is breath taking.
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