May Lake
A picturesque alpine lake reached by a rewarding 1.2-mile hike, offering stunning reflections and access to panoramic Yosemite views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Waterfalls are full & warm days
May Lake
Best Time
Waterfalls are full & warm days
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque alpine lake reached by a rewarding 1.2-mile hike, offering stunning reflections and access to panoramic Yosemite views.
"The sight is like from a movie or fairy tale. Unbelievable view of a lake only those willing to put in the effort can enjoy."
Mosquito Repellent is Key
Bring strong repellent; mosquitoes are notorious here and can bite through clothing! :bug:
Hike Past the Lake
Don't stop at May Lake! Continue to Mount Hoffmann for incredible, sweeping Yosemite views. :mountain_snow:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
May Lake
Trailhead parking lot
A picturesque alpine lake with stunning reflections of Mount Hoffmann. Perfect for a peaceful moment.
Mount Hoffmann
Past May Lake
A challenging but rewarding hike offering 360-degree panoramic views of Yosemite, including Half Dome.
Great Sierra Wagon Road Display
Parking lot
Learn about the historical contributions of Chinese immigrants who worked on this 1880s road.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Ascent
Permits & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Mosquito Repellent is Key
Bring strong repellent; mosquitoes are notorious here and can bite through clothing! :bug:
Hike Past the Lake
Don't stop at May Lake! Continue to Mount Hoffmann for incredible, sweeping Yosemite views. :mountain_snow:
Pack Out Everything
Respect nature and other hikers by packing out all trash. :recycle:
Fishing Fun
The lake is known for huge fish, so bring a fishing pole if you enjoy angling! :fishingpoleand_line:
Tips
from all over the internet
Mosquito Repellent is Key
Bring strong repellent; mosquitoes are notorious here and can bite through clothing! :bug:
Hike Past the Lake
Don't stop at May Lake! Continue to Mount Hoffmann for incredible, sweeping Yosemite views. :mountain_snow:
Pack Out Everything
Respect nature and other hikers by packing out all trash. :recycle:
Fishing Fun
The lake is known for huge fish, so bring a fishing pole if you enjoy angling! :fishingpoleand_line:
Overnight Permit Needed
If camping, ensure you have a wilderness permit well in advance. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, fairy-tale-like scenery at May Lake, especially the reflections of Mount Hoffmann. The hike is described as a rewarding challenge, with many recommending the continuation to Mount Hoffmann for breathtaking panoramic views. While mosquitoes can be bothersome and swimming isn't permitted, the peaceful atmosphere and historical insights make it a memorable Yosemite experience.
"So let’s start with the climb. The hike is about 1.2 miles from the parking lot. Straight up. Be prepared to bring water and full clothing to protect your self from the mosquitoes. This like B52 bombers and they bite through your clothes. Once at the top, which is the lake. The sight is like from a movie or fairy tale. Unbelievable view of a lake only those willing to put in the effort to see can enjoy. Bring a fishing pole. The fish are huge. Amazing how Mother Nature intended things."
Jason Kerr
"It's a short 1.2 mile hike from the parking lot up to the lake. Take your time and enjoy the views as you climb. The lake was worth it!
The water was so clear but cold. The view of the mountains and lake was so beautiful. It wasn't crowded and very peaceful there.
There is a nice display with info on the old Great Sierra Wagon road at the end of the parking lot. I didn't know that there were Chinese immigrants who worked on it in the 1880s. It was nice to learn that their contributions were acknowledged.
There is a flushing toilet up at May Lake and pit toilets at the parking lot."
Sharon B
"This is a pretty good hike in Yosemite. I'm definitely glad we checked out the Toulumne Meadows area.
It was a lot less crowded than the rest of Yosemite when we visited (October time frame).
This hike was fairly easy. It's about two miles round trip if you stop at the lake. It's uphill, but fairly gradual and not too steep.
The lake is pretty with a mountain in the background. I wouldn't say the views are outstanding on this portion of the hike.
I highly recommend continuing past the lake to Mount Hoffmann (continue to the left of the lake). This is a very difficult hike, but you get amazing views. Even if you don't make it to the summit, the views are amazing along the way.
Overall, I would definitely recommend finding a hike in this area somewhere!"
Jacqueline Telljohann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
May Lake is accessed via a trailhead parking lot off Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park. The hike itself is about 1.2 miles uphill to the lake.
No, Tioga Road is a seasonal road and is typically closed from November through May or June due to snow. Always check the NPS website for current road conditions.
No, you cannot drive directly to May Lake. It requires a 1.2-mile hike from the designated parking area.
Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot.
While Yosemite Valley has shuttle services, there isn't a dedicated shuttle directly to the May Lake trailhead. You'll need your own vehicle or to arrange transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a valid Yosemite National Park entrance pass is required for all visitors. These can be purchased at the park entrance stations or in advance online.
There is no separate fee for May Lake itself, but you will need your park entrance pass.
A wilderness permit is required if you plan to camp overnight at May Lake or in the surrounding backcountry. Day use does not require a permit.
Wilderness permits can be obtained through a lottery system or on a first-come, first-served basis at Yosemite Wilderness Permit stations. It's recommended to apply well in advance.
May Lake is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible whenever Tioga Road is open. The parking lot and trail are generally accessible from sunrise to sunset.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is approximately 1.2 miles one-way and is a steady uphill climb. It's considered moderately strenuous by some, but rewarding.
Swimming is not permitted in May Lake. However, there are other nearby lakes like Polly Dome Lakes that are popular for swimming.
Yes, there are flushing toilets available at the May Lake area. Pit toilets are available at the parking lot.
May Lake is generally less crowded than Yosemite Valley, especially outside of peak summer weekends. Visiting in the fall can offer a very peaceful experience.
You might encounter chipmunks and other small mammals. Remember to never feed wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself offers beautiful reflections of Mount Hoffmann. Continuing to Mount Hoffmann provides stunning panoramic shots of the surrounding landscape.
Sunrise and sunset can offer magical light for photography, with soft colors reflecting on the lake. Midday can be harsh but still offers dramatic mountain views.
Drone usage is restricted in all US National Parks, including Yosemite. Please check the official NPS guidelines before flying any drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views from Mount Hoffmann. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the lake and sky.
Yes, the trail itself offers scenic views as you ascend, with glimpses of the surrounding mountains and forest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to May Lake
While the hike to the lake is rewarding on its own, many recommend continuing past the lake to ascend Mount Hoffmann. This extension significantly increases the difficulty but offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the Yosemite high country, including a unique perspective looking down on Half Dome. Even if you don't reach the summit of Mount Hoffmann, the views along the way are spectacular.
Exploring the May Lake Area
For those seeking a dip, nearby Polly Dome Lakes are a popular day hike destination for swimming.
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