Dog Lake via Lembert Dome Hike

The Dog Lake via Lembert Dome Trail is a great adventure that boasts wonderful views of the granite peaks within the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range and the charming alpine lakes nestled amongst the bluffs. Be sure to venture up to the summit of Lembert Dome for inspiring views, but make sure to exercise caution as the granite terrain becomes dangerously slippery when wet. Additionally, much of the path is adorned with granite outcrops, making the terrain uneven and rocky, so a sturdy pair of footwear is a must! Note: the National Park charges an entrance fee; refer to the NPS website for additional information.

Setting out from the Dog Lake Parking Lot, your journey along the Dog Lake via Lembert Dome Trail tracks north across the Tioga Pass Road and onto the Lembert Dome Trail. This section of the route will climb at a steep grade, demanding the navigation of switchbacks up to a trail junction. Here, turn left and hike up to the summit of Lembert Dome, which offers sweeping panoramas of the surrounding peaks and the lush meadow. Revel in the scenery, then head back down to the intersection. At this point, you will want to veer left and head northwest to another junction. Keep right here and you will be diverted onto the Dog Lake Trail.

Follow this path to the shimmering shores of Dog Lake, where the trail will plateau. Venture around the perimeter of the picturesque lake and, when you are through exploring the terrain, retrace your footing along the paths all the way back to the trailhead.