Summiting Mount Hoffman via May Lake Trailhead

Destinations West California Yosemite Valley

Summiting Mount Hoffman via May Lake Trailhead

Summiting Mount Hoffman is one of the most rewarding day hikes in Yosemite National Park, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a moderate challenge for avid hikers. Located at the geographic center of the park, Mount Hoffman is accessible via the May Lake Trailhead, a spot renowned for its stunning alpine scenery. This hike is unique for its combination of awe-inspiring vistas and geological significance, as Mount Hoffman's summit provides sweeping 360-degree views of Yosemite’s iconic landmarks—including Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and Cathedral Range.

Adventure Guide To Summiting Mount Hoffman

Trailhead Starting Point - May Lake Trailhead
The adventure begins at the May Lake Trailhead, located off Tioga Road (Highway 120). The initial hike to May Lake is a well-maintained, 1.2-mile trail with an elevation gain of approximately 500 feet. The crystal-clear alpine lake serves as a perfect rest spot before ascending the peak. Trail markers guide you toward the eastern ridge ascending Mount Hoffman.
Mid-Ascent Features - Granite Spires and Wildlife
The ascent from May Lake to Mount Hoffman involves approximately 2.5 miles of rocky terrain and a challenging 1,500-foot elevation gain. You’ll cross fields of granite slabs and boulder-strewn slopes, which are home to marmots and pikas, offering glimpses of Yosemite’s unique wildlife. The unmaintained trail requires basic route-finding skills, making sturdy boots and trekking poles essential.
The Summit Experience - Iconic Views and Tranquility
At 10,850 feet, Mount Hoffman’s summit reveals unmatched views of Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, and the distant Sierra Nevada peaks. Be prepared to celebrate your accomplishment in solitude, as this high-altitude vantage point is far less crowded than Yosemite’s more popular trails.

Local Insights

Mount Hoffman is considered the geographic heart of Yosemite National Park, making it a symbolic destination for many hikers. It is named after cartographer Charles F. Hoffman, a contributor to the iconic California Geological Survey of the late 19th century.

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit: Late June to September, when Tioga Road is open and snow-free.
What to Bring: Adequate water, sunscreen, layered clothing, and a trail map.
Directions: From Yosemite Valley, drive about 1.5 hours along Tioga Road to the May Lake parking lot.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Brad Beggs2 years ago

Probably the best hike in Yosemite for several reasons. The hike is easy to moderate, with a well maintained trail to the beautiful alpine lake, which is clear as glass and framed by a mountain. It is not crowded and those that make the trek are friendly and respectful of the setting (there is no swimming as the lake is a water source). You can continue on the trail to the left of the lake up the ridge to spectacular views toward the Valley, including half dome. The hike is a moderate incline on the way up, making an easier walk down. Parking is plentiful, with restrooms at the trailhead and at the lake. Not a lot of shade before you get to the lake, so best for a morning hike in the heat of the summer. Allow three hours to enjoy the round trip.

Troy Windhorst2 months ago

This was one of my favorite Yosemite hikes. It’s off the beaten path, so it was not crowded at all (though there was an empty, but well-maintained campground up top, so I suspect there are times when there are quite a few people). The lake was beautiful with rocky outcrops creating both picturesque backdrops and, because they were easily accessible, a fun climbing playground. A trail encircles about two-thirds of the lake (I couldn’t see that there was a complete loop.). The journey up to and adjacent to the lake offers both shade and full sun. The journey up is quite steep in parts, but I thought it was in easy manageable short bursts. Overall, I thought this trail and lake was a hidden gem.

Edwin Lindsay6 years ago

Great hike. Uphill the whole way, but there are multiple rest points. The whole trip is worth it. The lake at the top is breath taking.

Curtis Lannoma month ago

This was a really nice hike up to May Lake. It's about 1.2 miles each way on an out and back trail. It is a moderate difficulty but not too bad. The views along the was are amazing and the lake itself is very beautiful. There was a decent amount of parking and the road was pretty good getting there, a bit rough and narrow in a couple of places but nothing bad. Highly recommend taking this hike and spending some time at the lake.

Alexandre Contreras3 months ago

I suggest you go a step further and hike all the way up to Mount Hoffmann. Amazing views! The hike is worth the efforts. Getting to Lake May is pretty chill (and the lake is stunning) but then it gets much harder, with rock scrambling at the end. Download the trail map and use the stone totems as guides.

Hiking

Summiting Mount Hoffman via May Lake Trailhead