General Information about Mirror Lake

Mirror Lake is technically not a lake but a seasonal pool in Tenaya Creek. It's located at the base of Half Dome, making it a prime spot for reflection photography. The lake is most full in spring and early summer due to snowmelt, but it often dries up in late summer and fall, transforming into Mirror Meadow.

Hike from the Ahwahnee Hotel

The hike from the Ahwahnee Hotel to Mirror Lake is a pleasant 2.4-mile round trip. The trail is mostly flat and paved, making it accessible for most visitors. You'll enjoy views of Tenaya Canyon, Mount Watkins, and Washington Column along the way.

Water Level Throughout the Seasons

• Spring: Mirror Lake is at its fullest, offering beautiful reflections of Half Dome and surrounding cliffs.

• Summer: The lake often dries up, turning into a meadow. However, early summer can still provide some reflection opportunities.

• Fall: The lake is usually dry, but the changing colors of the foliage create a unique photographic opportunity.

• Winter: The lake is often frozen, and the surrounding snow-covered landscape offers serene and quiet scenes.

  Photographic Opportunities for Half Dome & Mirror Lake

  Mirror Lake offers some of the best angles to photograph Half Dome. The reflections of Half Dome in the water are especially stunning during spring and early summer Late afternoon and sunset are the best times to capture these reflections. The best spots for these reflections are on the west side of the lake.