About
Length (round trip)12.5 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyHard
Elevation gain1,600 ft up
Typical time7 hr
TrailheadGlacier Point Road
SurfaceForest and burn area, gentle grade
Best seasonWaterfalls peak in May and June. Tioga and Glacier Point roads open late May or June and close with the first big snow.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🏞️ Lake🎒 Backpacking❄️ Winter use

The first half of this hike gently inclines through forest and meadow where you can observe severe scars and regrowth from a 1987 lodgepole pine forest fire. A steep climb toward the end of the hike opens up to views of granite domes, Mt. Starr King, and the Clark Range just prior to arriving at Ostrander Lake. Distance: 12 miles (19.3 km) round-trip Elevation gain: 1,500 ft (450 m) elevation gain Time estimate: 8-10 hours Tips & Seasonal Information Pets and bicycles are not allowed on hiking trails. A vault toilet is available at the trailhead. This trailhead is only reachable by car when Glacier Point Road is open, which is typically from approximately late May through October or November. Overnight parking is prohibited beginning October 15. For current road and weather information, call 209/372-0200 (press 1, then 1). In winter, when Badger Pass Ski Area is open (typically mid to late December through March), the Glacier Point Road is groomed for cross-country skiing beyond the ski area, conditions permitting. See website for more information.

Tips
The stone Ostrander Ski Hut on the lake is a famous winter backcountry destination reached by a 10-mile ski. In summer the first half crosses old burn with little shade.
Location

Glacier Point Road

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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