Mirror Lake Trail
A leisurely walk along this trail leads to the unique Mirror Lake.
Plan Around Mirror Lake Trail
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Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Mirror Lake Trail Details
You can take either an old paved road or a dirt path to reach the shores of Mirror Lake. Filled by melting snow, the lake has little water most of the year, but in the spring and early summer, it becomes a wonderful example of what must have inspired John Muir to popularize the Park in the late 19th century. The still water yields picturesque reflections of the surrounding cliffs, including that of Half Dome, and provides ample opportunities for watching wild ducks and deer in their natural habitat. In drier months, the hike leads to a marsh-like meadow filled with tall grasses and the occasional wildflower. A loop trail circles the lake, as well. Trailhead: Mirror Lake Shuttle Stop #17
Difficulty
Low
Distance
2.0 miles
Estimated time
1.0 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Mirror Lake Trail
Compare nearby parks around Mirror Lake Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Mirror Lake Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Mirror Lake Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.1 mi away
Glacial Moraine (V25)
As a glacier retreated, this moraine, or accumulation of glacial soil and rock debris, was left behind.
0.2 mi away
Tenaya Creek Restroom
A small restroom located on the trail to Mirror Lake.
0.2 mi away
From Curry Village Recreation Center
Ride from the Curry Village Recreation Center, past the stable and onward to Mirror Lake.
0.3 mi away
Upper Pines Campground
This campground is located in Yosemite Valley near Curry Village.
0.4 mi away
North Pines Campground
This 81-site campground is open April through November.
