California · July 2016
Hike Summary
Distance:
6 miles loop
Total Elevation Gain:
1,236 ft
Starting Elevation:
9,970 ft
Highest Point:
10,530 ft
Hike Time:
3 - 4.5 hrs
Difficulty:
Moderate
Seasons:
July - October
Dogs:
Not Allowed
Some of the best hiking in Yosemite National Park is along the Tioga Road, which stretches east-west between Tuolumne Grove and U.S. Highway 395.
The high altitude of this area can make hikes more challenging than the mileage and elevation gain stats might suggest.
This loop is perfect if you are looking for a relatively moderate hike near the Tioga Pass that features alpine lake scenery and open views.
The trail starts at a small parking area adjacent to the eastern park entrance, about 12 miles west of Lee Vining.
The first mile feels steep, and you will have some good views of the Tioga Road area near the top of the ridge as you approach Lower Gaylor Lake.
Looking down the Tioga Road on the way up to Gaylor Lakes
From the ridge, the trail drops down to Lower Gaylor Lake, which is apparently a good fishing spot.
There were also plenty of mosquitoes when I visited.
Lower Gaylor Lake
If the snow has cleared, the trail to Upper Gaylor Lake is also very easy to follow.
Sitting at an elevation of 10,512 feet, there may be patches of snow here well into the summer.
Upper Gaylor Lake
From here, the trail to Granite Lakes may be less obvious.
To continue, you will be walking along the left edge of Upper Gaylor Lake and up the hill toward some mine ruins.
The trail then continues west down the slope to Granite Lakes.
Granite Lake
Directions
The trailhead for Gaylor Lakes is located next to the Yosemite National Park entrance on Tioga Road, about 12 miles west of Lee Vining, California.
1
Trailhead: 37.910220, -119.258277
2
Lower Gaylor Lake: 37.913769, -119.267075
2
Upper Gaylor Lake: 37.921564, -119.268754
2
Granite Lake: 37.921933, -119.274799
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