The majority of people visit the park by either camping or booking a room at the Cathedral Lakes … The thing is, getting up there is a bit tricky. Cathedral Lakes Hike. All around are mountains upon mountains, as far as the eye can see. The road to the parking lot is rutted and r, We took our two teenage sons on this hike, trail was beautiful, steep and hard but very doable. You’ll find Cathedral Lakes in Canada’s only desert – the Okanagan, sitting at the tip of the Sonoran where British Columbia borders with Washington, USA. Its about 6 miles round trip and there aren't many signs to cheer you on and up to the lake. These Are The Countries Where You Can (And Really Can’t) Drink The Tap Water, Adventure And a little mountain sickness. 12 reviews of Yosemite Cathedral Lakes "Magnificent. Cathedral Lakes isn’t just quiet because it’s in the middle of the desert. There are many hikes from the core area, but The Rim Trail is the crown jewel – it’s a 10km day trip that combines several shorter routes with one epic mountain ridge. The extraordinary Cathedral Provincial Park owes its name to sensational mountain peaks that reach over 2600m/8,500 ft around a bowl in the Cascade Mountains just north of the U.S.A. border. Beautiful colors and lake make the trail worth a visit. Get spooky in Aspen with this ghost tour! Hiking around the Cathedral lakes Journey to the top. She looked like the Indy Car driver Danica Patrick. Location: Yosemite National Park Trailhead: Tuolumne Meadows, elevation 8,565 feet Highest point on the trail to the lower lake: 9,565 feet Lower Cathedral Lake elevation: 9,288 feet Upper Cathedral Lake elevation: 9,685 feet Elevation Gain: lower lake 1,000 feet, upper lake 1,120 feet Hiking Distance: lower lake 3.5 miles, The water is so crystal clear that it’s hard not to jump straight in, but it’s glacier-fed and pretty damn cold! We took our two teenage sons on this hike, trail was beautiful, steep and hard but very doable. There are lovely alpine views all the way. The lake is beautiful, we saw a lot of cutthroat trout. During sloppy spring snow conditions, the rock ridge to climber's right of Cathedral Lake bowl provides easy passage. Equally as beautiful are the tranquil Haystack Lakes, which are within a day’s hike of the main lake areas. TL:DR You don’t have to go very far to see some pristine high sierra lakes and epic sunsets. This is a 2.8 mile dirt trail in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Ashcroft, CO. To get to the trailhead, from the Aspen roundabout turn right onto Castle Creek Road and drive 12 miles. It’s so bloody worth it. START HERE; The Blog [Menu Segment Blog 1] Destinations [Menu Segment Destinations] Gear [Menu Segment Gear … Coming from sea level as we did for a day-hike, the trail to Cathedral Lakes begins at 8,500 feet. You will either have to shuttle cars, hitchhike, or catch the Tioga Rd Shuttle to do this And the best part is there’s no need to wait for big tour groups to move along so you can capture it for yourself. Although this lake doesn’t have the stunning turquoise color of those in the Canadian Rockies, we think it’s one of the best lake hikes in Yosemite. It sure felt good to put my achy feet in the ice cold water of the lake! Accommodation here starts at CA$520 (AU$560) per person for two nights or, if you’re going with a group of mates, you can book out a larger cabin. One of my favorite destinations in Yosemite - these are my Cathedral Lakes hike photos. The road to the parking lot is rutted and rocky- you don't need four wheel drive but be careful of the ground clearance of, your vehicle. This Intriguing Map Ranks Languages By How Easy They Are To Learn, Guides Now that you’ve made it to paradise, it’s time to explore. Bring poles and good footwear as the terrain varies and there is a small stream crossing. Unfortunately the river was rushing and high and we. This popular day hike steeply ascends Pine Creek canyon traveling through forests and meadows to Cathedral Lake, a gorgeous alpine gem nestled in a dramatic cirque beneath rugged granite peaks. This hike is for you! This was a challenging hike. Its about 6 miles round trip and there aren't many signs to cheer you on and up to the lake. If you’re taking the cheap option, make sure you give yourself a full day for the hike – it’s very steep and you’ll need lots of breaks. Cathedral Lakes - Key Facts. From the trailhead on Highway 120, you almost immediately begin to climb. 8 Drinking Games To Level-Up Your Next Zoom Party, Culture You can rent an overnight backpack from MEC for CA$10 (AU$11) per day if you don’t own one. In other words, it’s an exhausting uphill slog – and somewhat cruelly, doesn’t even go past any lakes, but it’s worth it. Hiking trail near Aspen, Colorado. Even though it’s in the desert, snow covers the Cathedral Lakes trails for most of the year, so it’s best to visit in summer (June to September). The return hike follows the same route. Hike and Swim at Cathedral Lakes near Wawona, California. Cathedral Lakes Trail is 7 mi /11.3 km roundtrip with an elevation change of 1000 ft/300 m with a 1 mi/1.6 km roundtrip spur trail to the Lower Cathedral Lake. (Lead image: Johan Lolos via Destination British Columbia. We did this 12.6 mile thru hike over 3 days/ 2 nights with plenty of time to take in the scenery, relax, and do some day hike exploring. It may be a good idea to bring a small towel with you on the hike to dry off your feet. This is also wine country, so don’t leave without a tasting at one of the many vineyards along the Similkameen River. This Map Shows Every Country’s National Animal And Their Conservation Status, Inspire After a night at Cathedral Lakes, some may elect to continue their trip along the John Muir Trail, descending all the way to Yosemite Valley, about 19 miles from Upper Cathedral Lake. Further along the rocky ridge is what’s known as Stone City – a collection of huge geological formations that feels like a petrified town. We look forward to going back to see the. Beautiful otherwise and a great workout. The main base for all activities in the park, the large, calm lake lies beneath the sheer, dominating beauty of Quiniscoe Mountain. Hike Distance: 7 miles (11.2 km) round trip to Upper or Lower Cathedral Lakes; 8 miles (12.8 km) round trip to see both Trailhead Elevation: 8,500 feet (2,590 meters) Lower Cathedral Lake Elevation: 9,290 feet (2,830 meters) Upper Cathedral Lake Elevation: 9,600 feet (2,925 meters) The red line shows the route from the trailhead at Tuolumne Meadows to Upper Cathedral Lake. Spectacular. The entrance is past the American Lake parking lot just before the Pine creek cookhouse. The alternative is to hike in. When you get back down go to the Pine Creek Cookhouse for lunch or at least some libations, It was a long, strenuous hike with a lot of switchbacks and rough terrain but the lake was pretty cool to go see. It is not crowded at all. For more details and pics visit etbtravelphotography blog, Both this and American Lake are close by on the road to Ashcroft. Visiting America's National Parks Just Got A... Five Of Australia's Best Cold-Weather Camping Spots. Lovely. Cathedral Park is southwest of Keremeos and accessible via Hwy 3. Some places will even let you pick your own! There is also a small stream crossing which can easily be done without getting wet. There are lovely alpine views all the way. It’s a fun, bumpy ride that takes just over an hour – but at CA$120 (AU$129) plus taxes per person, it’s not ideal if you’re travelling on a budget. The entrance is past the American Lake parking lot just before the Pine creek cookhouse. There are lovely alpine views all the way. The trail is like a staircase: the first 0.8 mi ascends 600 ft, the next 0.7 mi is level, the next 0.6 mi ascends 600 … While the hike to Cathedral Lakes isn’t especially difficult compared to some of the hikes in Yosemite, it’s mostly the elevation that will get you. Cathedral Protected Area was established on April 18, 2001, to enhance the ecological viability of Cathedral Park and to protect low elevation forests. Who doesn’t like the outdoors? The Floating Island & Cathedral Lakes Trail is a 4.7 mile hike in El Dorado National Forest, just outside of South Lake Tahoe. Beginning in beautiful Tuolumne Meadows, the largest sub-alpine meadow in the Sierra Nevada, the path ascends a thousand feet in three miles to a side trail to Lower Cathedral Lake. It begins with lovely aspen trees and wildflowers are plentiful. The Park’s Core Area is only accessible by hiking routes from the Ashnola River corridor or, by a private jeep service, operated by Cathedral Lakes Resort. It holds the tasty title of “the fruit stand capital of Canada”, so be sure you stock up on local apples, peaches, apricots, cherries and more. Reviews. And, since you’re watching this video, we know that you’ll enjoy the benefits of receiving our free National Park Outdoor eNewsletter. You can book a return Jeep trip through Cathedral Lakes Lodge, the owners of the singular private road to the top. Aspen Premium Ski Rental Including Delivery. Trekking Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite - A day hike in the Toulumne Meadows towards Cathedral Lakes turned out to be an eventful day. Stop at Lower Cathedral Lake and sit on the granite banks enjoying the tranquil waters before heading up the trail to the truly epic view of Upper Cathedral Lake. Cathedral Lakes Lodge is Canada’s highest full service hiking and fishing wilderness lodge. Back at camp, borrow a rowboat or canoe from the lodge and paddle out across the placid water of Quiniscoe Lake. Before you leave your car, make sure you put all food and anything particularly fragrant into one of the bear lockers. I wouldn't do the hike again unless I was on better shape but I liked the lake, the stream we got to wall through and the views! After reaching base camp, most hikers choose to ride the Unimog into the core of Cathedral Lakes (seat reservations necessary). Any doubts will fade as soon as you lay eyes on Quiniscoe Lake. Timed for nightfall according to season, experience a creepier Aspen as you slip through shadowed streets and into the dark haunts of the past. Follow signs that direct you towards Cathedral Lakes Lodge Base Camp for about 22 km (13.7 mi). Hike Distance: 7 miles (11.2 km) round trip to Upper or Lower Cathedral Lakes; 8 miles (12.8 km) round trip to see both Hiking Time: 3 - 5 hours Trailhead Elevation: 8,500 feet (2,590 meters) Lower Cathedral Lake Elevation: 9,290 feet (2,830 meters) Cathedral Park offers fishing, camping, wilderness camping, hiking, and mountaineering. Bring water! There is also a small stream crossing which can easily be done without getting wet. From the trailhead, you’ll immediately start to gain elevation as you hike through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness accompanied by the sound of a rushing creek flowing from Cathedral Lake. With temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius in summer, it’s not the kind of place you’d expect to find in a country known for its ski runs and lush green forests. This is a great hike for all skill levels, featuring a scenic lake and amazing view of Lake Tahoe and Fallen Leaf Lake. Glorious. Watch out for mountain goats as you head back down to yet another lake – a pale turquoise gem named Ladyslipper. Cathedral Pass Loop Hike Info. Unfortunately the river was rushing and high and we were unable to cross confidently. The hike to Cathedral Lake begins near the ghost town of Ashcroft. It begins with lovely aspen trees and wildflowers are plentiful. It’s a fun, bumpy ride that takes just over an hour – but at CA$120 (AU$129) plus taxes per person, it’s not ideal if you’re travelling on a budget. more, Top Selling Tours & Activities in and around Aspen. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. If you’re keen on fishing, the lakes are stocked with abundant rainbow trout. The shortest route is the Lakeview Trail, which is 16km long with 1300m elevation. We are located near Quiniscoe Lake, 2000 metres (6800 ft.) above sea level in the heart of Cathedral Provincial Park and Protected Area. Treat yourself to some freshly made frozen yoghurt from Mariposa Orchards, too – it’s insanely good. Maps, directions, and reviews. Near the top of the climb, it passes a spur trail to Lower Cathedral Lake (0.5 mile to lake). Cathedral Lake Trail Hiking Detail. 'This hike will take you backpacking into Cathedral Lakes, then continue an 18 mile loop to Sunrise High Sierra Camp, and then onto Tenaya Lake. You can get a lakeside spot near the lodge – but if you want more privacy and wilderness all to yourself, walk down the trail for about 15 minutes until you hit your second lake, appropriately named Lake of the Woods. lake! Near the top of the climb, it passes a spur trail to Lower Cathedral Lake (0.5 mile to lake). This hike also joins a famous John Muir Trail, which is the beginning point of 210 mi (338km) journey that ends at the top of Mt.Whitney located in … The scenery is every changing on this trail. All other images: Beth Dalgleish), Culture This was a challenging hike. Experience a thrill as you hear about the gruesome history that created these ghosts, and glance around, wondering where the wraiths will emerge from. Is this a must-do if you are traveling with a, Would you recommend this place or activity to a friend looking for an, Is this a romantic place or activity that you would suggest for, Is this a place or activity you would suggest for, Are the prices for this place or activity, Is this a place or activity you would go to on a, The scenery is every changing on this trail. The right branch leads ½ mile down to Lower Cathedral Lake and the left - which is the John Muir Trail - continues 0.7 miles up a gentle grade to Upper Cathedral Lake. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The nearest town is Keremeos, a very scenic four-hour drive from Vancouver. The alternative is to hike in. If you like to hike and can handle a. strenuous hike then definitely take time to go here! Sorry, there are no tours or activities available to book online for the date(s) you selected. And while the Rockies certainly deserve attention, a lesser-known park a little further south is hiding some of the most incredible views in North America: Cathedral Lakes Provincial Park. Experience The Thrill Of The Hukafalls Jet In Taupō, New Zealand, One Of North America’s Most Spectacular Parks Is Hidden In Canada’s Only Desert. For the budget traveller, there are campgrounds for just CA$10 (AU$11) per person, per night. You’ve earned it. The Cathedral Lakes trail is not only a part of the famous John Muir Trail, it is also a very popular day hike. Its about 6 miles, Both this and American Lake are close by on the road to Ashcroft. The lakes, hiking trails, campsites and private lodge accommodation are all located in the park’s core area, 2000m above sea level. The trail climbs steadily to Upper Cathedral Lakes. The last set of switchbacks were most "dangerous". It sure felt good to put my achy feet in the ice cold water of the lake! This Fascinating Map Shows How Fast You Can Drive In Every Country, Adventure Aspen Premium Snowboard Rental Including... Aspen Performance Ski Rental Including... Aspen Performance Snowboard Rental Including... Hotels near Aspen Music Festival and School, Hotels near Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, The John Denver Sanctuary: Tickets & Tours‎, Maroon Lake Scenic Trail: Tickets & Tours‎, Aspen Mountain / Ajax: Tickets & Tours‎. That is why I wanted to get here as early as I could – I like to meet some hikers on the trail, but I wanted to keep at least an illusion of solitude in these mountains. Your journey begins by taking Ashnola Road, just outside of Keremeos. This was a challenging hike. Start early to avoid afternoon thunder showers and possible lightening and the heat- Our group thought this was the prettier of the two hikes-it's a bit harder with a fairly steep switchback midway. Did I mention that it’s worth it? A classic Yosemite Hike, located at around 9,000 feet that takes you through a beautiful forest and up to an open meadows of Cathedral Lakes. The return hike follows the same route. Importantly, remember there’s a cold beer waiting for you at the lodge when you make it to the top (and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg – bless you, CA$5 / AU$5.50 Canadian tinnies!). On one side is the lodge: a series of rustic log cabins and a communal kitchen and bar. Camping Joshua Tree, California: Here’s Your 5-Step... What Your Choice Of Vancouver’s Mountains Says... View all articles in {{menu.readMoreCategory}}, 8 Drinking Games To Level-Up Your Next Zoom Party, This Map Shows Every Country’s National Animal And Their Conservation Status, This Intriguing Map Ranks Languages By How Easy They Are To Learn, These Are The Countries Where You Can (And Really Can’t) Drink The Tap Water, This Fascinating Map Shows How Fast You Can Drive In Every Country, Experience The Thrill Of The Hukafalls Jet In Taupō, New Zealand. 69 Trip Reports for this trail, below ... You can stay to the right and head straight to Upper Cathedral Lake and Ampitheatre Mountain or you can head in a westerly direction to connect with the Boundary trail (#533) for a more meandering route. The last set of switchbacks were most "dangerous". From Cathedral Lake, the trail ascends a large east-facing bowl, which steepens considerably directly before it exits onto Tallac's gentle south slopes. No one. Just make sure you have a license before you set out to make your catch. The dusty landscape that surrounds Cathedral Lakes makes the park even more magical: perched high above the heat is a wild oasis with seven glacial lakes, blooming meadows and endless snow-capped mountains. Steep hike! Begin at Cathedral Lakes trailhead, 1/2 mile west of the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center, Shuttle Stop #7. We started later in the afternoon and had to lake to ourselves. The trailhead does not scream at you here I am like others, so be watchful after Tenaya Lake. The hike to Cathedral Lakes in Yosemite National Park allows you to savor what may be the most perfect lake we have ever been to. Once you’re over the fact that Glacier Lake is even prettier than the first two, start hiking up the mountain until you get to the rim. When you’re seeking turquoise lakes and snow-capped mountains, a few of Canada’s big-name national parks are obvious choices: Banff, Jasper, Yoho. Please choose a different date. Cathedral Lakes Hike. Cathedral Park offers hiking, fishing, camping, wilderness camping, and mountaineering. We saw one couple on the trail. Cathedral Lakes provincial park lies in the transition zone between the rainforests of the Cascade mountains and the dryer, arid landscape of the Okanagan Valley.This mountainous park presents a wealth of variety in its terrain, flora and fauna, as well as excellent hiking options both on and off trail. Focus is on the trail, check the main page for the destination pics. Cathedral Lake Trail #1984 is a difficult trail you can hike, run, and horseback ride that is dog friendly. The trail climbs steadily to Upper Cathedral Lake. Simply go to Adventure-Crew**** and fill in the A-C eNews box. The thing is, getting up there is a bit tricky. It's hiding some of the most spectacular views in North America. You can book a return Jeep trip through Cathedral Lakes Lodge, the owners of the singular private road to the top. Surrounded by dark pines and jagged peaks that are somehow even more stunning than Quiniscoe, you’ll feel like you’re setting up camp inside someone’s desktop background. First, you’ll head toward Glacier Lake, winding through meadows blooming with red, yellow and purple flowers. This wonderful Yosemite hike links two of the most beloved areas in Yosemite by way of a pleasant and relatively easy trail through a forest of old growth lodgepole pines. From our lodge, you have access …