Small Group Hiking: Pinecrest Lake Trail, 2 Hours

A loop around the lake with stops for the view and the story behind it.

A guided hike around Pinecrest Lake in Yosemite National Park with a small group, taking 2 hours total including stops for scenery and photos. The guide shares the area's history—including the strawberry dam rebuilt in 1914—while you walk the trail past ponderosa pines, cedars and wildlife. Bottled water and snacks are provided; children are welcome from age 8.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike around Pinecrest Lake

• Meet guide and group
• Start hike around Pinecrest Lake
• Learn about local wildlife and history
• Stop to enjoy scenery and take pictures
• Complete hike and return

The Experience

The hike itself runs about an hour and 30 minutes, but the full outing is 2 hours so there is time to stop, take pictures and stand still on the shore. You walk around Pinecrest Lake, which sits at the center of the park and holds rainbow trout and a designated swimming area. The guide points out the ponderosa pines and cedars that line the trail, and explains what you are looking at—the lake's history, the wildlife that lives here, why people come back.

A knowledgeable guide leads the group, keeping it small enough that you are not herded. The pace is steady but not rushed; the stops are built in. You get bottled water and the guide carries snacks in case anyone needs them. The trail is walkable for families—children from age 8 are welcome—but it does ask for a moderate level of fitness; it is not a stroll.

There is no pickup included, so you arrange your own way to Pinecrest Lake. Public transportation options are available nearby if you are not driving. Once you arrive at the trailhead, the guide meets you and the hike begins.

What’s included

• Knowledgeable guide leading the group in English.
• bottled water for everyone.
• snacks on hand if needed.
• 2 hours total including stops for photos and scenery.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditions

Operated by Eve

Is this one for you?The hike asks for a moderate level of fitness and about an hour and 30 minutes of steady walking, so it suits someone who is comfortable on their feet and wants to move at a real pace rather than dawdle—the stops are for the view and the history, not for catching your breath.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

How difficult is the Pinecrest Lake trail?

The hike asks for a moderate level of physical fitness. It is about an hour and 30 minutes of walking around the lake with built-in stops for photos and scenery, so it is steady but not strenuous.

What is the strawberry dam you mention?

The strawberry dam is a historic structure at Pinecrest Lake that was rebuilt in 1914. Your guide will point it out and explain its role in the lake's history as you walk the trail.

Can I bring my children on this hike?

Children are welcome from age 8 and up. The 2-hour outing with stops along the way works well for families, though kids should be comfortable walking for about an hour and 30 minutes at a moderate pace.

What wildlife might I see on the trail?

Pinecrest Lake is home to rainbow trout and various wildlife that live in and around the forest. Your guide will point out what you encounter and explain what lives in the area, though sightings depend on the time of day and season.

Is water and food provided?

Bottled water is included for everyone. The guide also carries snacks in case anyone needs them during the hike, so you do not have to pack your own.

How do I get to Pinecrest Lake for the hike?

You arrange your own transportation to the lake. Public transportation options are available nearby, or you can drive. Once you arrive at the trailhead, the guide will meet you to start the hike.