Big Virginia Lake
Lake · Yosemite corridor
Big Virginia Lake sits at 9,774 feet in the Yosemite corridor of California's Sierra Nevada. A high-altitude alpine lake exposed to afternoon wind and accessible primarily in late summer.
Wind averages 14 mph across the rolling 30 days and climbs to 30 mph in afternoon gusts. Morning conditions are markedly calmer; plan water activities and photography for sunrise through mid-morning. Expect significant afternoon chop and spray by mid-day.
Over the past 30 days, Big Virginia Lake averaged a NoGo Score of 16.0 with temperatures holding around 24 degrees Fahrenheit and wind sustained at 14 mph average. The week ahead will track similar patterns typical for this elevation. Wind spikes and afternoon instability remain the dominant planning factor.
30 days back / 7 days forward
Today's score by factor
About Big Virginia Lake
Big Virginia Lake occupies a cirque basin in the high Sierra east of Yosemite Valley, accessed via Highway 120 and a trailhead approach in the Tioga Pass corridor. The lake sits isolated at 9,774 feet with minimal shelter from the open ridgelines that funnel wind across its surface. Nearest gateway communities are Lee Vining to the east and Tuolumne Meadows to the west. Drive time from the Bay Area is 4 to 5 hours; from Sacramento, 5 to 6 hours. The approach is backcountry; expect a full-day trip including hiking.
Big Virginia Lake remains frozen or partially snow-fed well into late spring. Summer water temperature rarely exceeds the low 40s Fahrenheit. The 30-day average temperature of 24 degrees reflects typical late-season alpine conditions. Wind averages 14 mph over the rolling month and regularly peaks at 30 mph, driven by pressure systems that funnel down from the high country and across open water with no leeward refuge. Mornings are consistently calmer than afternoons. Crowding averages 6 across the rolling 30 days, reflecting low base popularity and backcountry access barriers. Visits concentrate in the first weeks after Highway 120 opens in late spring and again in early fall when days remain long and stable.
Big Virginia Lake suits experienced backcountry travellers, alpine photographers, and anglers willing to hike for solitude. The high elevation and exposure demand solid fitness and weather awareness. Afternoon wind makes paddling or float-tube fishing viable only in morning windows. Photographers targeting alpine light should plan dawn starts and depart before 10 a.m. when shadows lengthen and wind begins to chop the surface. Permit requirements and trailhead quotas apply; arrive early or plan a weekday trip. Expect no services or emergency support beyond what you carry.
Nearby alternatives within the Yosemite corridor include Ellery Lake and Tioga Lake along Highway 120, both accessible by car with shorter approaches and slightly more shelter. Tenaya Lake offers drive-to access and larger water surface but sees higher crowds. Visitors planning a multi-day high Sierra loop often pair Big Virginia Lake with nearby cirque lakes to the south and east, creating a self-supported backpacking route.