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Lembert Dome (Lembert Dome from Dog Lake Trailhead)
Hiking Trail
Hard
1.88 mi
733 ft
Hike and short scramble to an impressive granite perch over Tuolumne Meadows.
Lembert Dome is one of the granite monoliths rising from Tuolumne Meadows, and among the easiest of them to climb. It’s sheer-sided on most aspects, but the gentler east side provides a manageable route to the top. A signed trail begins from Dog Lake Trailhead, ascending somewhat steeply through the forest until emerging on the bare granite of the dome. From there, simply aim upward on the sloped spine of rock until you reach the top. On the summit, you'll enjoy a 360-degree panorama over the thick pine forest and the Tuolumne River snaking through patchwork meadows below, with Sierra Nevada peaks scraping the horizon all around.
The climb is straightforward and relatively short, starting out easy but becoming very steep near the top. You will want to use your hands for stability in places. Proper hiking shoes are recommended for traction and comfort on the bare granite. Also keep in mind that the descent is trickier than the climb, so don’t go up anything you don’t think you can come down. Just take it slow and use extra careful foot placements for safety.
Note: The Lembert Dome Picnic Area is another trailhead for Lembert Dome, but the approach from there is longer and more strenuous.
Sources:
Written by Jesse Weber
Lembert Dome is one of the granite monoliths rising from Tuolumne Meadows, and among the easiest of them to climb. It’s sheer-sided on most aspects, but the gentler east side provides a manageable route to the top. A signed trail begins from Dog Lake Trailhead, ascending somewhat steeply through the forest until emerging on the bare granite of the dome. From there, simply aim upward on the sloped spine of rock until you reach the top. On the summit, you'll enjoy a 360-degree panorama over the thick pine forest and the Tuolumne River snaking through patchwork meadows below, with Sierra Nevada peaks scraping the horizon all around.
The climb is straightforward and relatively short, starting out easy but becoming very steep near the top. You will want to use your hands for stability in places. Proper hiking shoes are recommended for traction and comfort on the bare granite. Also keep in mind that the descent is trickier than the climb, so don’t go up anything you don’t think you can come down. Just take it slow and use extra careful foot placements for safety.
Note: The Lembert Dome Picnic Area is another trailhead for Lembert Dome, but the approach from there is longer and more strenuous.
Sources:
Written by Jesse Weber
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lot to Lembert Dome | 0.79 mi | 594 ft | 14.1% |
| Tioga Pass Rd Climb | 0.37 mi | 440 ft | 22.0% |
| Tioga Rd Climb | 0.43 mi | 295 ft | 13.0% |