Cathedral Lakes (Upper and Lower Lakes)

Cathedral Lakes (Upper and Lower Lakes)

Yosemite Valley, Mariposa County, CA
0mi²
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Lake Information

Cathedral Lakes is a beautiful alpine lake situated in the heart of Yosemite National Park, Mariposa County, California. The lake is located at an elevation of 9,288 feet and spans across an area of approximately 65 acres. It is one of two lakes in the Cathedral Lakes area, with the other being the Upper Cathedral Lake, which is located at an elevation of 9,585 feet. The two lakes are situated in close proximity to Cathedral Peak and Tresidder Peak, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors. The ecological significance of Cathedral Lake is noteworthy. The lake and its surrounding areas are home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are unique to the region. The lake supports a diverse aquatic ecosystem, with several species of fish such as rainbow trout, brook trout, and golden trout being commonly found in its waters. The lake is also an important breeding ground for several species of waterfowl, including the common loon, mallard duck, and Canada goose. Cathedral Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers due to its picturesque scenery and diverse ecological system. The lake is accessible via a 7-mile round trip hike from the trailhead in Tuolumne Meadows, along the John Muir Trail. The hike to the lake is relatively moderate, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas at their leisure. Several hiking trails are located around the lake, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the surrounding peaks and ridges. In conclusion, Cathedral Lake is a natural treasure situated in Yosemite National Park, Mariposa County, California. The lake and its surrounding areas provide a critical habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, as well as offering visitors the opportunity to engage in recreational activities such as hiking and fishing. The management and conservation of the lake and its ecological system are critical to ensuring its continued contribution to the region's social, economic, and ecological well-being. The lake's accessibility and proximity to several popular hiking trails make it an excellent destination for visitors seeking a unique and breathtaking outdoor experience.

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Current Conditions

45°F°
Feels like 41°F°
Cloudy
Today's High
44°F°
Today's Low
32°F°

Water Temperature

34°F
Updated: (Apr 29)
Sign in to contribute temps.

Current water temperature for Cathedral Lakes (Upper and Lower Lakes) is 34°F.

Current Snapshot

Wind5 mph W (Gust 8 mph)
Pressure
29.98 inHg
Visibility14 mi
Humidity57%
Cloud Cover95%

Forecast: Wednesday, Apr 30

Day 1 of 9

Hourly Insights

7 AM
33°F°
10 AM
43°F°
1 PM
44°F°
11%
4 PM
42°F°
48%

Temperature

High
44°F°
Low
32°F°

Precipitation

Chance58%
Amount0.9"
Typerain

Wind

4mph
Avg Speed
Gusts up to
16mph
CalmModerateStrong
Max Speed8 mph

Sun, Moon & UV

Sunrise1:02 PM
Sunset2:47 AM
Moon PhasewaxingCrescent
Max UV Index6 (High)

Solunar Fishing Forecast

Action Rating
2/5

Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)

Major Times (Best)

10:28 PM - 12:58 AM

7:00 AM - 7:00 AM

Minor Times (Good)

2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

7:00 AM - 7:00 AM

Outlook for Wednesday at Cathedral Lakes (Upper and Lower Lakes)

Expect temperatures ranging from 32°F to 44°F. There's a 58% chance of rain, potentially bringing around 0.9" snow. Winds will be averaging 4 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 16 mph. The maximum UV index will be 6 (High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 2/5 (Todays action is rated a 2 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 10:28 PM and 7:00 AM, or try the minor windows near 2:30 PM and 7:00 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Cathedral Lakes (Upper and Lower Lakes).

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April 29th 2025

Lake Information

Elevation
N/A
Area
0 mi²
Coordinates
37.844, -119.423

Weather Forecast

Wednesday

44°F
32°F

Thursday

48°F
30°F

Friday

48°F
33°F

Saturday

36°F
26°F

Sunday

33°F
24°F

Monday

40°F
26°F

Tuesday

43°F
28°F

Wednesday

45°F
31°F

Thursday

49°F
34°F
Wednesday - 4/30/2025
44°F
32°F
12am
35°F
34°F
30.03 hPa
3 mph
E
G: 5 mph
2am
33°F
34°F
30.01 hPa
3 mph
SE
G: 6 mph
4am
32°F
34°F
30.00 hPa
1 mph
SSE
G: 5 mph
6am
32°F
34°F
30.00 hPa
2 mph
S
G: 5 mph
8am
36°F
34°F
30.01 hPa
2 mph
ENE
G: 4 mph
10am
43°F
34°F
29.98 hPa
2 mph
W
G: 6 mph
12pm
44°F
34°F
29.96 hPa
3 mph
WNW
G: 7 mph
2pm
42°F
34°F
29.95 hPa
5 mph
NNW
G: 9 mph
4pm
42°F
34°F
29.92 hPa
6 mph
NW
G: 9 mph
6pm
38°F
34°F
29.96 hPa
5 mph
NNW
G: 7 mph
8pm
36°F
34°F
29.96 hPa
6 mph
E
G: 8 mph
10pm
35°F
34°F
29.97 hPa
8 mph
ENE
G: 14 mph

Water Temperature History

Trends for Cathedral Lakes (Upper and Lower Lakes)

Current Temp

Sign in to view

Latest recorded surface temperature.

Lowest in Period

33°F

On May 5

Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.

Average in Period

49°F

Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.

Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months

Surface temperature over the selected period.

Key Observations (Last 12 Months)

  • Warmest avg: July (70°F).
  • Coolest avg: May (35°F).
  • Rapid warming often occurs: May → June (+24°F).
  • Sharpest cooling trend: October → November (-14°F).

Weather Forecast

Wind speed and pressure trends

Hourly Wind Forecast

12am1am2am3am4am5am6am7am8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm7pm8pm9pm10pm11pm0481216

Wind Direction

84°

Pressure

1017 mb

Cloud Cover

66%

Visibility

15 miles

Daily Pressure Forecast

WedThuFriSatSunMonTueWedThu0.008.8617.7226.5835.44
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cathedral Lakes (Upper and Lower Lakes)

Get accurate, up-to-date information about conditions at Cathedral Lakes (Upper and Lower Lakes).