Ellery Lake is a breathtaking alpine oasis
located just outside the eastern entrance of
Yosemite National Park on Highway 120. Set
in the remote Upper Lee Vining Canyon, this
pristine 50-acre lake offers outdoor
enthusiasts a true paddler's paradise, with
stunning scenery and excellent fishing and
hiking opportunities.
Situated about an hour north of Mammoth
Lakes and just 6 miles west of the town of
Lee Vining, Ellery Lake is nearly impossible
to miss along the Tioga Pass Road. Its
alpine beauty is sure to stop you in your
tracks. The lake rests at an elevation of
9,538 feet, surrounded by majestic mountains
and towering pine forests.
From early/mid-May to early October, Ellery
Lake is prime for camping, paddling, and
exploration, depending on snowmelt and road
conditions (Highway 120 is subject to winter
closures). In addition to excellent
kayaking, the lake offers a wealth of other
recreational activities - fishing, climbing,
photography, wildlife viewing, and hiking.
Though there's no official trail around the
lake, adventurous visitors can forge their
own path and soak in the breathtaking
Sierran scenery.
For those seeking a remote, crowd-free
outdoor escape with access to the wonders of
Yosemite, Ellery Lake is the perfect
destination. Its pristine alpine setting,
varied recreational offerings, and proximity
to iconic Yosemite landmarks like Tioga
Lake, Ribbon Falls, and El Capitan make it a
true paddler's paradise.
Map of Lake Ellery
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