Lembert Dome rises above Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park, about 8 miles west of the Tioga Pass entrance. The 2.8-mile round-trip hike climbs through forest before reaching steep granite near the summit. From the top, you can look across the meadows and Tuolumne River toward Dog Dome and the High Sierra. It is a shorter alternative to Yosemite’s more demanding summit hikes, but the final rocky section is steep and can be slippery.
The trail to the granite summit
The route begins at the Lembert Dome and Dog Lake trailhead near Tioga Road. It shares a trail with the Dog Lake route before branching toward the dome. The round trip to the summit is about 2.8 miles.
The path starts among trees, then steepens as it reaches the granite. The final section involves scrambling over rock, which can be slippery. Hikers who are uncomfortable with heights can turn back before the summit. You can return by the way you came or continue on a loop that connects with Tioga Road or the Pacific Crest and John Muir trails.
Views over Tuolumne Meadows
Lembert Dome stands at the north end of Tuolumne Meadows, rising about 800 feet above the meadow and Tuolumne River. Its position among forest and open meadow makes the granite formation visible as a distinct rise in the high country.
From the top, the view takes in Tuolumne Meadows, Dog Dome and the High Sierra. The dome is also visible from the river near the campground road, where the water can reflect the rock.
Planning for the high country
The trail is at high elevation, and even a short walk in Tuolumne Meadows can feel tiring. Drink water and slow your pace. If breathlessness, a headache or fatigue becomes worse, find a park ranger.
Wildlife can be encountered along the trail, including bears and deer. The suggested precautions include carrying bear bells or taking other appropriate precautions. Check for trail closures before visiting, particularly if you are planning a hike in an off-peak season.
Häufige Fragen
How long is the Lembert Dome hike?
The round trip to the summit is about 2.8 miles. Allow around 1.5 to 3 hours for the hike.
How difficult is the hike?
The route is short, but the final climb over granite is steep and can be slippery. The summit scramble is not advised for people with a fear of heights.
Where is Lembert Dome?
It is at the north end of Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park, about 8 miles west of the Tioga Pass entrance.
What can you see from the summit?
The summit looks over Tuolumne Meadows and the Tuolumne River, with Dog Dome and the High Sierra in view.
