Ten Lakes Trek from Tuolumne Meadows [3 Days]
Starting in Tuolumne Meadows, the Ten Lakes Trail climbs steadily through shaded lodgepole forest before a series of switchbacks leads up toward Ten Lakes Pass. The ascent is the main effort of the day, but the views expand quickly as you gain height. Beyond the pass, the trail drops into the broad basin of Ten Lakes, where multiple clear lakes sit among open granite and scattered pines, giving the area a quiet, remote feel compared to the busier corridors near Tuolumne.
After exploring the basin, the route continues cross-country or on use trails eastward to connect with the Murphy Creek Trail, descending gradually through forest and along the creek back toward Tuolumne. The loop combines a strong climb, open alpine scenery, and a mellow forested return, making it a varied and rewarding tour through a less-traveled corner of Yosemite National Park.
- 3 Days
- 16mi
- 1800ft
DIFFICULTY RATING (1-5)
2-3
This trek follows well maintained trails and has an easy-moderate hiking distance of 5-9 miles per day. Due to the elevation gain of this trek it is considered an easy to moderate Level 2-3 hike. Weight carried will be between 25-35 lbs per person depending on ability level.
Top-of-the-line tent, backcountry sleeping pad and multi-day backpack, headlamps, utensils and poles.
High quality, synthetic sleeping bag (Laundered after every use- $15 cleaning fee) – or bring your own!
Breakfast, lunch, and 4-course dinner prepared by your guide while in the field.
Professional local mountain guide certified as Wilderness First Responder, Food Handling & Leave No Trace Principles with years of professional and personal wilderness experience and a passion for leading others.
Wilderness and National park backcountry camping permits.
Bear canisters for food storage.
Water Filtration systems- all water filtered by your guide!
Emergency equipment including an extensive first-aid kit and satellite communication device (InReach Explorer).
For Yosemite National Park Treks: Mandatory 5% national park fee that passes through directly to Yosemite.
A discount of 10% off any TrekSierra trip after your first!
Previous backpacking experience is recommended, but not necessary. The ability to carry an overnight backpack for up to 6 miles a day with 1000 feet of elevation gain for multiple days in a row. Good physical condition required.
- Ten Lakes
- Ten Lakes Pass
- Toulomne Meadows
- Yosemite National Park
Due to the high costs of outfitter/guide and government permits, all deposits are non refundable. We will attempt to reschedule you with a $100 per person change of date fee. In the unlikely event that TrekSierra must cancel a program you may reschedule for no fee or have your deposit refunded. No refunds will be made due to weather or route conditions. TrekSierra is not responsible for additional expenses incurred in preparing for a trip, including but not limited to: non-refundable airline tickets, equipment purchases, medical expenses, and hotel reservations. TrekSierra strongly encourages participants to obtain trip cancellation insurance. Coverage should include trip cancellation, baggage loss, non-refundable airline tickets, accident/life coverage, and travel days. TrekSierra also encourages participants to purchase medical, disability, life, and rescue insurance. TrekSierra does not provide any such insurance coverage and participants acknowledge it is their own responsibility to acquire insurance for themselves. All fees are due 30 days prior to departure date. Full refunds less a $250.00 registration fee are available more than 30 days prior. 50% refunds are given within 20-30 days of departure. No refunds are given within 20 days of the departure date. All refund requests must be received in writing/email. Late payments may result in the cancellation of a reservation with no refund given. No refunds will be given if any participants cannot complete the trip or end the trip early.