Raisin Lake, Yosemite: Off-Trail High Country Hike

About

Raisin Lake sits in Yosemite's high country a mile or so beyond May Lake, reached by leaving the maintained trail behind and picking a cross-country line over granite slabs and through lodgepole forest. There's no trail sign, no bridge, and no crowd waiting at the shore — just a small lake that runs surprisingly warm for the High Sierra, and a route that rewards hikers comfortable doing their own navigating.

Getting There

Start at the May Lake Trailhead: drive about 26.5 miles east from Yosemite Valley on Tioga Road, then turn north on May Lake Road and continue 1.7 miles to the road's end. The maintained trail to May Lake itself runs roughly 1.2 miles one-way with about 500 feet of gain. Raisin Lake lies beyond that maintained section — continue past May Lake's shore for about a mile, then leave the trail and work east across open granite and timber for a mile or two more. This is genuine off-trail hiking: bring a map, compass or GPS, and route-finding experience.

What to Know Before You Go

Yosemite requires a wilderness permit for any overnight stay in the backcountry, year-round, with a $10 fee plus $5 per person.
A bear-resistant food canister is mandatory on all overnight trips.
Camp at least 100 feet from the lakeshore and at least one air mile from the nearest road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a maintained trail to Raisin Lake?

No. The route follows the maintained May Lake Trail for about a mile, then continues cross-country over granite and through forest — expect off-trail navigation, not a signed path.

Do I need a permit to camp overnight at Raisin Lake?

Yes. Yosemite requires a wilderness permit for any overnight backcountry stay year-round, and a bear-resistant food canister is mandatory.

How do I get to the trailhead?

Drive Tioga Road about 26.5 miles from Yosemite Valley, then turn north on May Lake Road and continue 1.7 miles to the trailhead at road's end.