Gardisky Lake Trail


Gardisky Lake Trail

It is a steep climb to reach the high meadow and ponds that lead to Gardisky Lake, a total of 1.2 miles from Saddlebag Lake Road. The open, sunny meadows near the lake give views of Tioga Peak and to the west, White Mountain on the Yosemite National Park boundary. Overnight trips to the Gardisky area require a wilderness permit for the Saddlebag Lake area.

Download area map for trail names.
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Weather
Reservations: Reserve a wilderness permit up to 2 weeks in advance at www.Recreation.gov
Rentals & Guides: Guiding in Hoover Wilderness is by Yosemite Mountaineering School.
Permit Info:
  • Wilderness permit required year round for overnight trips.
  • Day use does not require a permit. 
Restrictions:
  • No campfires in the 20 Lakes Basin.
  • Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear proof container or counter balanced.
  • Hall Natural Area is day use only. No camping south of Greenstone Lake, Saddlebag Lake, Conness Lakes, Wasco, Alpine, Green Treble, Maul, Big Horn, Finger, Spuller, Fantail, Shell Lakes; no caping near Bennettville or the Great Sierra Mine.
  • Overnight trips require a Saddlebag Lake wilderness permit. 
  • Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep habitat, do not disturb this recovering species.
  • Hoover Wilderness regulations.
Closest Towns:
  • Lee Vining, CA (food, gas, lodging)
  • Mammoth Lakes, CA (full service, hospital)
Water: Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
Restroom: No restroom. Please Leave No Trace. Bury human waste away from water sources.
Operated By: Forest Service
Information Center:

General Information

Directions:

Leave Hwy 395 at Hwy 120. Follow Tioga Pass Road toward Yosemite. Turn north onto Saddlebag Lake Road and go approximately 1 1/4 miles to the trailhead parking on the west side of the road.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
37.9505

  Longitude : 
-119.2611

  Elevation : 
9,754ft at trailhead - 10,489ft. at Gardisky Lake