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An oft-overlooked trail leading to a beautiful alpine lake.


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Map Key

6.2

Miles

10.0

KM

90%

Runnable

8,616' 2,626 m

High

7,012' 2,137 m

Low

1,653' 504 m

Up

127' 39 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

20%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · Views

Description

Beautiful Ostrander Lake is a terrific trail that's often overlooked because, unlike many trails on the other side Glacier Point Road, it doesn't offer terrific views of Yosemite Valley.

In the summer, when there are plenty of crowds, Ostrander Lake is generally a great place to find some peace and quiet. The trailhead starts at the Ostrander Lake Parking Area, where restrooms are available.

The first 2.5 miles of the trail pass through relatively flat terrain. Bear left at the first trail junction, then left again at the second. Next is the trail's most difficult stretch, a 1,500-foot vertical ascent to Horizon Ridge, which offers terrific views of Mount Starr King and the Illilouette Creek Basin. After peaking at 8,720 feet, the trail drops 200 feet to Ostrander Lake. On the northern shore lies Ostrander Ski Hut, where cross-country skiers can spend the night in winter.

Thanks to guidebook author and photographer, James Kaiser, for sharing this trail description. If youre interested in learning more details about great day hikes, weather, camping / lodging, and geology, check out his book: .

Contacts

Land Manager: NPS - Yosemite

Shared By:

James Kaiser

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 7 votes

#11252

Overall
  4.0 from 7 votes
5 Star
14%
4 Star
71%
3 Star
14%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#1,081

in California

#11,252

Overall
5 Views Last Month
2,320 Since Sep 24, 2015
Intermediate Intermediate

0%
14%
71%
0%
14%
0%

Photos

View from the shore of Ostrander Lake
Apr 5, 2016 near Yosemit…, CA
New trees grow along the trail. The canopy opens up in this part of the trail.
Nov 7, 2016 near Yosemit…, CA
Frost covers the plants in the early morning.
Nov 7, 2016 near Yosemit…, CA
The trail is narrow as it moves through the woods. Lots of the older trees have fallen and been cut up to clear the trail.
Nov 7, 2016 near Yosemit…, CA
Water alongside the trail in the fall from melted snow.
Nov 7, 2016 near Yosemit…, CA
The trail is wider through this section.
Nov 7, 2016 near Yosemit…, CA

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