Are you looking for a great warm-up hike in Yosemite? If so, Lembert Dome hike is the perfect choice for you.
Located along the well-known Tioga Road, Tuolumne Meadows is the treasured destination of Yosemite high country. This highly elevated meadow hosts many exciting and adventures activities like hiking, climbing, camping and backpacking. Meadows has pretty much of everything, from a supply store, a visitor center, a luscious campground and a lodge as well.
Lembert Dome hike is one of the easiest and the most beautiful hikes in this area. It is a granite formation whose highest point looks over the beauty of Tioga Road. This hike alone makes a great day in Yosemite high country. Lambert dome hike is great for the first-timers due to its ease and simplicity. Even the pro hikers use it as their warm-up hike for preparing themselves for some of the most difficult hikes in the Yosemite area. You will be able to enjoy the stunning views over Tuolumne Meadows and when you’re done, you can grab some delicious snacks at the famous Tuolumne Meadows Grill. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about Lembert Hike Yosemite!
How To Get There?
There are a few ways in which you can get there. The first way is the shortest and quickest, you can walk up straight to the dome and then back. Another way is a longer circular route which will also take you through the silent and beautiful Dog lake. If you have limited time, then you can take the straight route. However, if you don’t have any time boundation, go through the long route as it offers a great experience and the Dog lake makes it worth hiking.
Lembert Dome Hike Basic Details
Distance: 8 kilometres (5 miles)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Elevation : 300m (1000 ft)
Trail Type: Circular
Time Required: 2 Hours
The Lembert dome trailhead is neither too easy nor too difficult. It’s a moderately difficult hike that you can easily complete in 2 hours. Although the hike is a bit elevated, it isn’t one of the trickiest ones in the area. However, a slightly challenging part is reaching the summit of Lembert Dome. There is no obvious trail and it can get slippery. So, if the weather is rainy or stormy, we don’t recommend getting there.
The Beginning Of The Lembert Dome Hike
You can make your way into the forest situated on a gradual uphill eight from the Lembert Dome car parking. It’s a relatively easy path and the gradient is also pretty much forgiving to the newcomers. If you’re climbing on a hot day, don’t worry as the forest offers a good amount of shade and a cooling effect on the way. Although the river dries up in extreme sun, if you’re trekking in spring or starting summer, you’ll be able to walk beside it which would add to your amazing experience.
The Side Trail To Calm And Beautiful Dog Lake
At a distance of merely 0.3 miles from the main route, we highly recommend taking a tour to the stunning Dog Lake. While it is uphill, the route is gentle and short. It will take just a couple of minutes to reach the edge of the sparkling blue water.
The lake is spread over a huge area. It is extremely beautiful and calm, you can even plan for paddling or have a picnic on its edge. The peaceful mountains, the green luscious forest makes a stunning backdrop for the lake view. You will never get tired of staring at it the whole day.
It is indeed a tough task to drag yourself away from this site!
The Trail To The Stunning Top of Lembert Dome
After enjoying the scenic beauty of Dog lake, you will again join the main trail to make your way to the top of Lembert Dome. It will take about a few minutes or so before you hit the granite and sight the summit. Walking on the granite is very easy as it is quite grippy and doesn’t let you slip at all.
Also, there is no fixed path, so you can pick the route that suits you the most. As we already discussed, the area just below the summit is a bit tricky to cross. So, avoid getting there if it’s raining or the weather is windy.
The Tricky Route To The High Points Of Lembert Dome Trailhead
As we already mentioned, there are two different routes for reaching the top of Lembert Dome. You can pick any route depending on your time and preference. On reaching the top, you’ll find how large and spacious the dome is. You can freely lie down and relax before walking further. You’ll get to see the scenic beauty of Meadows. In fact, it is a perfect sunset spot to spend some quality time at. Again, the route down the hill is easy and you’ll not take much longer to reach down.
Finishing The Round Of The Lembert Dome Loop
After joining the main trail, you can quickly head towards the downhill. You’ll come across the signposts on your way down – avoid taking the path that goes for Lembert Dome car park, instead take the Dog Lake route to get down more quickly.
The down trail is gentle and in a great condition, you’ll be able to reach the Dog Lake parking very quickly. On reaching there, you can cross the car park and join the trail on the left side of the road.
The path is easy, flat and will take you to the main road.
Packing Tips For The Lembert Dome Hike
Be it any outdoor trip, having the right gear and accessories makes your experience worth remembering. You’ll be able to complete your hike with more comfort and ease. Having said that, here is a list of essentials, we highly recommend for your Lembert Dome trip :
Sunscreen: The sun is harsh almost all year round in this area. Also, the shade is very little. So, sunscreen should be there in your bag. Check for this amazing sunscreen at Amazon.
Day Pack: A good capacity and sturdy day pack will make your hike convenient by keeping you organised. Here is one on Amazon.
Hiking Boots: For walking easily on the dry granite, you’ll need good quality hiking boots. These will prevent you from slipping while also keeping you comfortable. Check these boots out on Amazon
Reusable Water Bottle: Keep at least two reusable water bottles with you as the sun is brutal and there are very few spots of drinking water. Don’t take with you those one-time-use plastic bottles. Check this cool water bottle on Amazon
Lembert Dome Yosemite: Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Quickest Trail To The Lembert Dome?
If you don’t have a lot of time and want to take the shortest route possible, park your car at the Dog lake park and you can then head into the forest directly. You will reach the dome in just a few minutes and will be able to return quickly from the same route. This is a great option if you only want to watch the beautiful sunset.
What Is The Difficulty Level Of Lembert Dome Hike?
Lembert Dome is a fairly easy hike. While it does have some high elevation, it’s not among the most difficult tails out there. However, we recommend hiking on dry and pleasant days as the granite gets a little bit slippery on the rainy days.
What Is The Best Season to Climb Lembert Dome?
Lembert Dome is situated near the Tioga Road which gets closed during the end of October and Early November due to snow and also during May. The best time to plan your trip here is pleasant summer and fall.
Are There Any Safety Concerns At Lembert Dome Hike?
Lembert Dome has a decent black bear community. They are known to run behind the food in the cars of hikers and cause damage. So, stay alert and store your food and other essentials in the safety boxes provided at the car park.
Also, the chances of finding a bear on your way are very rare. However, if you end up facing one, be calm and don’t panic. They will run themselves on seeing you. Another thing is, don’t carry bear spray with you, it’s BANNED in the park.
Where To Accommodate In Yosemite National Park?
Depending on your likes and budget, you can either choose to stay in the park or book a lodge. The campground is huge and has decent amenities, you can plan your camping trip without any worries.
What Is The Entrance Fee Of Yosemite National Park?
The entry fee with a car is $35, $30 for bike and $20 per head for a week. You can also use the America the Beautiful Annual National Parks Entry Pass if you have one.
And there you have it! Lembert Dome is a great hike in Yosemite. It is easy, uncomplicated and offers plenty of scenic views and adventures. Plan your hiking trip and you’ll definitely not regret your decision!
