Mirror Lake is a small, seasonal lake located in Yosemite National Park in California, USA. The lake is located in the eastern end of Yosemite Valley, at the base of Tenaya Canyon, and is fed by Tenaya Creek.
The lake is named for its crystal-clear waters, which often reflect the surrounding cliffs, including Half Dome and Mount Watkins, creating a beautiful mirror-like effect. Mirror Lake is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round-trip from the nearest shuttle stop, making it a popular destination for hikers and visitors to Yosemite Valley.
During the summer months, when the creek is low, Mirror Lake is often dry or reduced to a small pond. However, during the spring, when the snowmelt is at its peak, the lake is at its fullest and most beautiful.
The Mirror Lake area offers several hiking trails, including a paved trail that leads to the lake from the shuttle stop, as well as longer hikes that explore the surrounding area. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, rock climbing, and wildlife watching in the area. However, swimming is not allowed in Mirror Lake, as it is part of the Tenaya Creek watershed and is protected for environmental reasons.
Photography: Walter Somers
