Northern Yosemite / Dorothy Lake

The Northern Yosemite / Dorothy Lake trail is a 105-mile out-and-back that traverses the northern half of Yosemite National Park. It extends north from Tuolumne Meadows to reach Dorothy Lake, a beautiful tree-lined lake at the northern boundary of the national park. This route passes through pristine wilderness with sheer granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, high peaks, deep canyons, and alpine lakes. This route offers incredible scenery and excellent opportunities for backcountry camping.

Dorothy Lake is a glaciated lake located within the designated Wilderness boundary of Yosemite National Park. The area is surrounded by undisturbed nature and can only be accessed by foot.

BEAR COUNTRY: Yosemite National Park is home to many American black bears, which unfortunately have become used to human visitors. Keeping food properly stored is essential for both your safety and the bear's. Visit https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/containers.htm for more information about appropriate food containers. 

PERMITS AND FEES

Yosemite National Park - Wilderness Permit Information

• Permits are required for overnight stays in Yosemite National Park.

•  60% of wilderness permit reservations become available by lottery 24 weeks in advance.

• There is a fee to enter the national park. 

• For information about qualifying passes, ways to pay, and more please visit https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/fees.htm. 

For information about regional and/or long distance permits along the Pacific Crest Trail, please visit https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/permits/.

WATER: For information about the crowd sourced water report for the Pacific Crest Trail please visit https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/backcountry-basics/water/pct-water-report/. 

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL ASSOCIATION: www.pcta.org 

The Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) is a non-profit organization that manages and maintains the Pacific Crest Trail. Visit their website for information about the trail, volunteer opportunities, thru-hiker blogs, trail closures, and more. For information about regional and/or long distance permits along the Pacific Crest Trail, please visit https://www.pcta.org/discover-the-trail/permits/.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Yosemite National Park: https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm.