Lembert Dome

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views · Wildlife

What makes the run special is the view at the top of the Dome. Once you've reached the top, you can see out onto Tuolumne Meadows in three different directions. Make sure once you are at the top that you do take the time to run around in order to fully experience the views that the Dome has to offer.

There are heavy winds at the top so make sure to either take off or secure your hat!

While I have seen people run parts of this trail, if planning to actually go up onto Lembert Dome do not expect to run the final stretch of the trail.

The Lembert Dome Trail is located in Tuolumne Meadows. This run to Lembert Dome starts off from the parking lot near Tuolomne Meadows Lodge. It's an easy uphill run that is not usually crowded. You'll have to be careful, however, climbing near the very end of the trail. From the parking lot, start out on the Lembert Dome Trail which you'll follow for about a half a mile before turning left onto the Lembert Dome Spur Trail.

The top of Lembert Dome is wide and fairly flat so you wont feel crowded, and despite the heavy winds, you won't fall off. The Dome offers incredible panoramic views of Tuolumne Meadows which, considering how easy the run up was, it almost feels like cheating. There are parts of the trail that are a bit less defined but its unlikely you could get lost. You can also choose the path to take while making your ascent up the dome based on whichever way you feel comfortable.

If you are looking for a simple run with breathtaking views and that doesn't come with a large crowd, this is the route for you. Also make sure to climb around a bit once on the top in order to fully take in everything that Lembert Dome has to offer. Definitely wear appropriate footwear preferably with a bit of grip, aka no flip flops. Once you are done taking in the views, head back down the way you came to return to the trailhead.

The same trailhead also leads to several other trails with stunning views such as the Dog Lake Trail, so make sure and schedule those in as well when making the trek. Lembert Dome is a short run that is definitely worthwhile. Also, a quick side note, make sure and take off your hat before you get to the top of the Dome because you'll be experiencing some pretty hefty wind action!

Depending on circumstances, it is not uncommon to see deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and a variety of birds while on the trail.