Harden Lake

Harden Lake is reached by an easy High Sierra hike starting at White Wolf, off Tioga Road, following part of the original Tioga Road grade along the Middle Fork of the Tuolumne River. At about 5.8 miles round trip with roughly 300 to 355 feet of elevation change, it's a moderate half-day outing through pine forest and granite outcrops that ends at a quiet, boulder-ringed lake — a good option for families since most of the descent comes on the way in, saving the climb for the return.

Trail Details

• Distance: About 5.8 miles round trip
• Elevation change: Roughly 300 to 355 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Typical time: 2 to 2.5 hours

The path follows an old road bed for much of its length, staying shaded under lodgepole and Jeffrey pine with granite domes visible along the way. Because the trail loses elevation heading out, the return trip involves more climbing than the walk in — worth pacing for, especially with kids.

Getting There

The trailhead sits at White Wolf, off White Wolf Road along Tioga Road (Highway 120) in Yosemite's high country. Tioga Road closes each winter and reopens once snow allows, so check current conditions before planning a trip outside summer and early fall.

Best Time to Visit

June through October gives the most reliable trail access and driest footing, once Tioga Road is fully open for the season.