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Rutherford Lake
A remote alpine lake earned by permit, miles of trail, and steep granite.
About
Rutherford Lake sits above 9,700 feet in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, just south of Yosemite's boundary — a backcountry destination for hikers willing to earn it, not a roadside stop. There's no trailhead inside Yosemite Valley for this one: access starts at trailheads in Sierra National Forest, such as the Fernandez Trailhead off Beasore Road near Bass Lake, then climbs through high country before dropping to the lake's rocky, exposed shoreline.
Getting There
This is a multi-mile wilderness approach, not a casual walk. Expect steep, uneven ground right at the lake, with grades reaching 20% along the final stretch to the shoreline. Nearby Anne Lake, sitting a bit lower and more sheltered, is the better bet for camping if Rutherford's exposed banks don't suit your group.
Permits
A wilderness permit from Sierra National Forest is required for overnight trips into this area, reservable through Recreation.gov — 60% of each trailhead's quota opens six months in advance, with the rest released two weeks out. Walk-in permits are free at the Bass Lake or High Sierra ranger stations, subject to daily quotas. Campfires are prohibited above 10,000 feet throughout the Ansel Adams Wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rutherford Lake inside Yosemite National Park?
No. It sits in the Ansel Adams Wilderness within Sierra National Forest, just south of Yosemite's boundary. Access is via Forest Service trailheads near Bass Lake, not from Yosemite Valley itself.
Do I need a permit to visit?
Yes, for overnight stays. Sierra National Forest requires a wilderness permit for this trailhead, reservable on Recreation.gov, with a portion of walk-in permits available first-come, first-served at local ranger stations.
Is this a day hike or a backpacking trip?
Treat it as a backpacking trip. The approach covers several miles of wilderness trail with real elevation gain, and the terrain right at the lake is steep and uneven.
Where does the trail to Rutherford Lake start?
At Sierra National Forest trailheads such as the Fernandez Trailhead off Beasore Road near Bass Lake, California.
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