Ostrander Lake
A serene alpine lake in Yosemite, offering a challenging hike, stunning stargazing, and a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Almost nil crowd factor
Ostrander Lake
Best Time
Almost nil crowd factor
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene alpine lake in Yosemite, offering a challenging hike, stunning stargazing, and a peaceful escape from the crowds.
"Spectacular. If you've managed to snag a wilderness permit to go backpacking to Ostrander lake- you've basically hit the jackpot!"
🎒 Secure Wilderness Permits
Book your overnight permits well in advance, especially for summer. They are essential for camping at Ostrander Lake.
🐻 Bear Canister is a Must
Always carry a bear canister for food storage. Yosemite wilderness requires proper food protection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ostrander Lake Tarn
Yosemite Wilderness
A serene glacial lake offering stunning reflections and a peaceful escape from Yosemite's busier areas.
Bridalveil Fall Source
Ostrander Lake
Discover the origin of the iconic Bridalveil Fall, known to Native Americans as 'Pohono' or 'Spirit of the Puffing Wind'.
Wildfire Scar Exploration
Trail to Ostrander Lake
Hike through a significant wildfire scar from 2020, witnessing nature's resilience and the regrowth of the forest.
Stargazing Paradise
Ostrander Lake Campsites
Experience breathtaking night skies with clear views of the Milky Way, far from light pollution.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permits & Planning
Trail Conditions & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Secure Wilderness Permits
Book your overnight permits well in advance, especially for summer. They are essential for camping at Ostrander Lake.
🐻 Bear Canister is a Must
Always carry a bear canister for food storage. Yosemite wilderness requires proper food protection.
👟 Check Trail Conditions
Be prepared for fallen trees and wildfire scars. Check recent trail reports before your hike.
💧 Dip in Freezing Water
Take a refreshing, albeit cold, dip in the lake during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Secure Wilderness Permits
Book your overnight permits well in advance, especially for summer. They are essential for camping at Ostrander Lake.
🐻 Bear Canister is a Must
Always carry a bear canister for food storage. Yosemite wilderness requires proper food protection.
👟 Check Trail Conditions
Be prepared for fallen trees and wildfire scars. Check recent trail reports before your hike.
💧 Dip in Freezing Water
Take a refreshing, albeit cold, dip in the lake during warmer months.
🎣 Hungry Brook Trout
Fishing can be good, with brook trout averaging around 8 inches.
🌌 Milky Way Views
The remote location offers incredible stargazing opportunities, including the full Milky Way.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ostrander Lake is a highly rewarding backpacking destination, praised for its stunning glacial tarn, peaceful atmosphere, and incredible stargazing. While the 12-mile hike can be challenging due to trail conditions, the solitude and natural beauty make it a 'jackpot' for those who secure a permit. Some visitors note the cold water and the impact of past wildfires, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"This is a fun walk in the woods. I spent two nights on the lake and had a very relaxing time. The trek is about 3.4 hours / 6.2 miles. Takes about the same time going out as coming in. Good for backpackers learning to backpack. Lots of nice camp sites around the lake most of them located on the south west side. Fishing was good with most trout averaging about 8 inches in length. I would recommend this on a week day trip for lowest almost nil crowd factor.
Update…visited OL again 9/10/24. Spent three nights there without another person in sight. I love this time of year ☮️"
James Hill Real Estate
"Spectacular. If you've managed to snag a wilderness permit to go backpacking to Ostrander lake- you've basically hit the jackpot! The lake is amazing for camping, stargazing with the whole view of the milky way, hammocking with light breezes, and exploring. Check out Hart lake too, close hike. Don't forget your bear can though!"
Jacob D
"This was a hard hike. A lot of the trees were fallen or burned from the 2020 fire.
The hike in total from the trailhead is 12 miles so be ready for a lot of waking.
I enjoyed the wind through the trees. There are so many crowded trails in Yosemite it's nice to do one tucked away ending at crystal clear waters :)"
Sabrina Zenad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ostrander Lake Trailhead is typically accessed from Glacier Point Road. It's a significant drive from Yosemite Valley, and road closures can occur seasonally. Consider checking the Yosemite National Park website for current road status and access information.
No, Ostrander Lake is not accessible by car. It requires a hike of approximately 6 miles one way from the trailhead, making it a backpacking destination.
The most common way to reach Ostrander Lake is by hiking the Ostrander Lake Trail, a 12-mile round trip. This is a popular backpacking route.
Shuttle services within Yosemite National Park primarily focus on Yosemite Valley. Accessing the Ostrander Lake Trailhead might require your own vehicle or arranging private transport.
The hike to Ostrander Lake is about 6.2 miles one way, typically taking 3-4 hours for most hikers. The total round trip is around 12 miles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While a day hike doesn't strictly require a permit, overnight backpacking to Ostrander Lake necessitates a wilderness permit, which must be reserved in advance.
Wilderness permits for Ostrander Lake can be obtained through the Yosemite National Park's wilderness permit reservation system, often requiring advance booking due to high demand.
Yes, Yosemite National Park has an entrance fee per vehicle. You may also need a vehicle reservation during peak season, so check the official NPS website for current requirements.
Ostrander Lake is a natural wilderness area and is accessible year-round, though winter access can be challenging due to snow. The trailhead and surrounding park areas have specific operating hours.
No, camping overnight at Ostrander Lake without a valid wilderness permit is not allowed and will result in penalties.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Ostrander Lake sits at an elevation of approximately 8,500 feet (2,590 meters) above sea level.
Yes, there are many nice campsites around the lake, particularly on the southwest side. They offer opportunities for hammocking and enjoying the scenery.
You might encounter deer, various bird species, and potentially black bears. Always practice bear safety and store food properly.
The hike is considered moderate to challenging due to its length and potential trail obstacles. It's a good option for beginner backpackers looking for a rewarding challenge.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Ostrander Lake, though the water is very cold, especially outside of peak summer.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene lake reflections, the surrounding granite bedrock, the regrowth in the wildfire scar, and the stunning night sky for stargazing.
Absolutely! Its remote location and high elevation make it an ideal spot for capturing the Milky Way and other celestial wonders.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but the clear waters and granite offer unique textures. Nighttime is prime for astrophotography.
Drone usage is restricted in Yosemite National Park, especially in wilderness areas. Check the NPS guidelines for current regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, a telephoto can capture distant peaks, and a sturdy tripod is essential for low-light and astrophotography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider breaking the hike into two days with an overnight stay to make it more manageable. The campsites offer a unique camping experience, and the chance to fish or take a (very cold!) dip in the lake can be highlights for kids. Always prioritize safety and check trail conditions before setting out.
🎒 Budget Backpackers
Packing your own food and gear is essential, but the reward is a spectacular natural setting and the chance to experience Yosemite's backcountry. The solitude and beauty of Ostrander Lake offer incredible value for those willing to put in the effort of the hike.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Ostrander Lake
Recent reports indicate fallen trees and wildfire scars, which can add to the challenge but also create a unique hiking experience. Proper footwear, ample water, and snacks are essential. The trail offers glimpses of the surrounding Sierra Nevada landscape, building anticipation for the destination. It's a rewarding trek for those seeking a less crowded Yosemite experience.
For those new to backpacking, this trail is often recommended as a good introduction to multi-day trips in Yosemite, provided they are well-prepared. The campsites around the lake are plentiful, offering a peaceful base for exploration and relaxation.
Ostrander Lake: A Natural Wonder
+1The lake is a haven for wildlife and offers excellent opportunities for fishing, particularly for brook trout that average around 8 inches.
During the summer months, the lake provides a refreshing, albeit frigid, spot for a dip.
The peaceful ambiance and natural splendor make it a perfect destination for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the wilderness.Planning Your Overnight Stay
When packing, remember that bear canisters are mandatory for storing food and scented items. This is crucial for protecting both your food and the park's bear population.
For those looking for a more extended experience, a short hike to nearby Hart Lake is also a popular option, offering further exploration opportunities within the Yosemite wilderness.
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