June 2014 -

The hike to Gaylor Lakes is considered by many as "moderate" but don't let this fool you! The initial part of the trail is pretty steep, and switchbacks a fair number of times. The hike to the first Gaylor Lake is really to Middle Gaylor Lake and is about 2 miles (3.2 km) round-trip, with an estimated 500-foot (152 m) elevation gain. Once you are at the ridge crest, you drop down about 200 feet (61 m) to the lake below. For most folks, this will take about 2 hours to complete, but why rush.

Switchbacks on the trail up to Gaylor Lakes.

The trailhead is just before the Tioga Pass Entrance Station for Yosemite National Park on highway 120. There is a bathroom at the trailhead, but no bathroom facilities on the trail or around any of the lakes (Gaylor Lakes or Granite Lakes). Be sure to take plenty of water and a snack with you. Other handy items include hiking or trekking poles, a hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a windbreaker (it can be cold and windy even in the warm season). At certain times of the year, especially early in the season when it is wetter, bug spray for mosquitoes is also a good idea.

The lakeside is a gorgeous spot for a picnic, and the ridge crest of the trail provides stunning views of Mt. Dana and the Dana Meadows area. You can also take in great views of Gaylor Peak, White Mountain, Moraine Flat, and even views of the Tioga Lake area.

By the way, there is a lot to do in this area and if you are up for it, you can hike, fish, picnic and enjoy the local wildlife on a different trail every day in this area. Some options are the nearby hike to Bennetville Mine, Saddlebag Lake, Tioga Lake, Mt. Dana, and many, many more locations.

Once you are at Middle Gaylor Lake, it’s just a short hike to Upper Gaylor Lake that is not large, but beautiful. Across the meadow and a bit further you, find Granite Lakes. These little lakes are sweet and fantastic for a picnic, fishing, photography or just sitting by the lake enjoying the beauty.

Whichever lake destination you choose, and however far you go, you can’t go wrong with a hike to Gaylor Lakes. The views, the nature, and the fly-fishing are fantastic!