Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
900.00 ft (274.32 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
1.00 mi (1.61 km)
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Lembert Dome, the 800-foot tall granite monolith rising above the eastern edge of Tuolumne Meadows, provides one of the best vistas in Tuolumne. There’s more than one way to skin a cat, and there’s more than one way to gain the summit of the Lembert Dome.

While the vast majority of Lembert panorama seekers ascend the dome’s northeast shoulder, there’s a much more direct, slightly exposed Class 3 route that ascends the southeast face. The route can be seen from the parking area, requiring a quick off-trail jaunt eastward along the base of the dome for access.

The route entails scrambling up a steeper lower pitch (the crux) to gain a series of benches and ramps that lead to a prominent westward facing prow and excellent viewpoint. Tip: on the lower and middle sections, stay near the trees for the easiest ascent.

From the west-facing prow, an easygoing hop in a northeasterly direction leads to the summit and an even better view. You can either descend the Class 3 scramble up the southeast face or link up with the Lembert Dome Loop by dropping down the northeast shoulder.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Pros

Quick, direct access to one of Tuolumne Meadow's best views.

Cons

Seasonal access when Highway 120 is open.

Trailhead Elevation

8,600.00 ft (2,621.28 m)

Features

Mountaineering
Big vistas

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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