Gibbs Lake Trailhead

Gibbs Lake sits at 9,530 feet in a narrow canyon between Mount Dana and Mount Gibbs, a steep but short climb above Upper Horse Meadow just south of Lee Vining. The trail follows Gibbs Creek through pine-covered slopes in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, part of Inyo National Forest — technically outside Yosemite's boundary, but only minutes from the Tioga Pass entrance and a natural add-on for anyone staying in town.

Getting There

The trailhead is about 2 miles south of Lee Vining off Highway 395, then 3 miles up Forest Road 1N16, a rough 4x4 dirt road, to Upper Horse Meadow. That access road is currently closed, with only two parking spaces at the closure — factor in extra walking distance beyond the 2.7-mile trail itself to reach the lake.

What to Expect

• Distance: about 2.7 miles one-way from the historical trailhead, climbing steadily along Gibbs Creek
• Season: generally hikeable May through October; expect snow at this elevation into early summer
• Conditions: not recommended for stock, and all water should be treated before drinking

Permits and Rules

Day hikes don't require a permit, but overnight camping in the wilderness does, and the Forest Service caps overnight use at 8 people per day from May 1 through November 1. Groups are limited to 15, campfires aren't allowed above 10,000 feet, and the canyon is Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep habitat, so keep dogs leashed and give animals space.