Mirror Lake Offers Beautiful Reflections Of Half Dome And Mt. Watkins

Yosemite National Park is full of classic vistas, from the Tunnel View’s iconic Yosemite Valley panorama to the vast landscape display available from Glacier Point. Another of those defining prospects is Mirror Lake, a pond set along Tenaya Creek as it rolls into Yosemite Valley. The modestly sized but beautifully situated body of water is aptly named: In the right conditions, from the right perspective, nearby peaks are reflected on the still surface.

Half Dome And Mt. Watkins

Most notable is 8,500-foot Mt. Watkins (pictured), a proud, colossal granite knob that towers to the north near wild Tenaya Canyon. You can also gaze upon the stolid face of Half Dome, which dominates the eastern horizon; the summit is a short raven’s-flight away. Seasonality In a typical year, Mirror Lake is at its fullest and most mirror-like in late spring and early summer. At the height of the dry season, the August version is typically much more shallow. Nonetheless, you are often likely to spot Half Dome and Mt. Watkins in the waters. Beyond the optical spectacle, Mirror Lake is a worthy destination for anyone hoping to stretch his or her leg muscles in Yosemite Valley: It’s one of the easiest and most scenic short hikes in the area. From the Mirror Lake Trailhead, which marks a shuttle stop, it’s about a mile-long stroll on a paved, wheelchair-accessible path to the lake. Those desiring a longer ramble and more shoreline vistas can circumambulate the pond. Proximity to Scenic Wonders Staying at a Scenic Wonders cabin, you’re not far at all from Yosemite Valley and the Mirror Lake vista. Spend an afternoon by the still waters, and we’re sure you’ll drift to sleep back in our Yosemite West neighborhood with some mesmerizing images of Half Dome and Mt. Watkins floating in your head. Mirror Lake—another little piece of Yosemite magic.

Make Your Yosemite Reservations Today

If you’re looking to see the beautiful reflections of Half Dome and Mt. Watkins, start planning your trip with Yosemite’s Scenic Wonders. We offer Yosemite reservations within the gates of the park. With one of our cozy cabins, condominiums, or homes, your Yosemite accommodations will be just minutes from all your favorite places in Yosemite. Give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) to learn about our rentals and to make your Yosemite reservations today.

Yosemite National Park Blog

Scenic Wonders’ Yosemite blog provides the latest news related to Yosemite National Park. By reading our blog, you’ll stay up to date on activities, accommodations, and more.   Photo credit: Malcolm Carlaw