Mirror Lake - Yosemite Dog Friendly Hike
I am currently moving closer to Yosemite, which means this week I’m busy unpacking boxes instead of out hiking…but before the first snow descended on Yosemite Valley last week I took Thumper out for a fun mid-week hike to Mirror Lake. Mirror Lake is one of Yosemite Valley’s more popular Winter and Spring hikes, known for its glossy Half Dome water reflections…but it also makes a great dog friendly Fall hike. Join me and Thumper as we head out on a gentle nature walk here.
FAST FACTS
Distance: 2 miles RT
Elevation: 100 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Dried up Mirror Lake in Yosemite National Park
Dried up Mirror Lake below Half Dome in Yosemite National Park
Mirror Lake History
It is believed this lake is a last remnant of large glacial lake that once filled the Valley. The native Ahwahnechee people who were long active in this area gave the lake a name meaning “quiet waters” long before they were driven out of the area when Mirror Lake was developed for tourists in the mid-1800s. There was a boathouse, dance hall, cabins and a damn developed to make this lake bigger during the first tourist push here in the early 1900s, but over time the NPS has removed the manmade structures and returned Mirror Lake to its previous natural state. Mirror Lake is actually more of a seasonal pool of water that forms from Tenaya Creek with the snowmelt. In late Spring you’ll find this lake at its fullest, but by Fall it’s often dried up with sand or tall grass, turning it into more of a meadow. In fact, Mirror Lake has little water much of the year, giving it the nickname “Mirror Meadow” during the Summer and Fall months.
Mirror Lake Trail in Yosemite National Park
Dog friendly Hike
The Mirror Lake Trail is located near Curry Village, and the trailhead is most easily accessed from shuttle stop number 17 (shuttles have not been running during 2020 or 2021, so other close options for parking include lots near Happy Isles and Curry Village). Dogs are allowed on leash along the 1 mile paved service road leading to the edge of the lake. This trail follows alongside Tenaya Creek for most of the journey, and the only elevation gain is a minimal push in the final 10th of a mile. You’ll want to stop and read the exhibit panels along the path to learn more about the history of this area along with interesting facts about the lake. There is a continuing trail that loops around the entire lake, but it is an unpaved path (meaning dogs are not allowed on it)…so if you want to continue past the paved area and around the entire lake, you’ll have to leave your furry friend at home. However you can still enjoy wonderful views of Tenaya Canyon, Mount Watkins, and Washington Column from the paved path…and you’ll still feel up close to the base of Half Dome here.
Thumper in her dog stroller along Mirror Lake Trail
Seasons
This trail is open year-round, but during Winter the path can be icy, snowy, and slick, so proper footwear is imperative…however the trail is also at its quietest and offers lovely water reflections of Half Dome (see my Mirror Lake in Winter post here). In the Summer the ground temperature can get quite hot, so it’s important to remember if the pavement is too hot for your hand it’s probably too hot for your dog’s paws {so you may want to consider hiking in cooler months or bringing paw covers for your four-legged friend). Thumper is my rescue dog and she’s been adventuring with me for over a decade now. As a senior dog with some mobility issues, I love having this pet stroller on longer trails so she can adventure with me, but also rest when needed. Mirror Lake is a popular Spring swimming/wading spot before it dries up, but snow melts can make areas unsafe, so please use wisdom and caution when adventuring…and remember when the pavement ends so does your dog’s journey – dogs are not allowed in the water here or off the paved service road/trail area.
Tenaya Creek Bridge along Mirror Lake Trail
Know Before You Go
• Drinking water is not available along the trail, however toilets and trash receptacles can be found at the end of the paved service road next to the lake.
• Bicycles and leashed pets are allowed on the service road, but may not continue onto the unpaved trail around the lake.
• Always remember to adventure within your own skill and comfort level here. Even the easiest hike can become unexpectedly challenging during flooding rains or after a heavy Winter storm. It’s important to always plan ahead and come prepared when enjoying this incredible National Park.
• Always check the NPS website prior to visiting Yosemite for road closures, weather information, up to date park information, and visiting guidelines.
• Please remember to respect the local plant & animal life here – take only pictures and leave only footprints. Pack out everything you pack in and stay on the designated paths. If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip. Please help leave this special place better than you found it, so its natural beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.
Tenaya Creek along the Mirror Lake Trail
In Summary & Behind the Blog Video
Thanks so much for joining Thumper and me in Yosemite this week. For a virtual visit to Mirror Lake, check out my Behind the Blog YouTube video below. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Dried up Mirror Lake and Tenaya Creek
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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