Mildred Lake
Lake · 9,540 ft · Yosemite corridor
Mildred Lake sits at 9540 ft in the Yosemite corridor's high Sierra, a glacially-fed alpine lake flanked by steep granite. Wind and temperature swings are sharper here than at lower elevations; plan accordingly.
Wind funnels off the lake by mid-afternoon, building steadily from calm mornings. The 30-day average wind runs 12 mph, but gusts spike to 33 mph. Temperature swings from 12 to 38 degrees across seasons. Head here on calm mornings; skip the afternoon if you're paddling or exposed to wind.
Over the last 30 days, Mildred Lake averaged a NoGo Score of 33, with wind holding steady at 12 mph and temperatures averaging 24 degrees. The week ahead shows typical spring volatility: expect afternoon wind to build, temperatures to rise slightly, and crowding to pick up as Highway 120 access improves. Watch for lingering snowpack instability on approach terrain.
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About Mildred Lake
Mildred Lake lies in the Yosemite corridor at 9540 ft, reached via Highway 120 east from Crane Flat or west from Lee Vining. The lake sits in alpine terrain with steep granite walls on three sides, creating a natural wind funnel. Primary access is the Mildred Lake Trail from the Highway 120 corridor; allow 90 minutes to 2 hours from the trailhead. The nearest gateway towns are Lee Vining to the east and Wawona to the west. Parking fills quickly on weekends when the pass is open, and the approach terrain includes significant avalanche exposure in spring and early winter.
Conditions at Mildred Lake are dominated by alpine exposure and diurnal wind patterns. The 30-day average wind of 12 mph climbs to 33 mph gusts in afternoon hours; mornings are reliably calmer. Temperature ranges from 12 to 38 degrees across the rolling 365-day period, with a current 30-day average of 24 degrees. Spring brings rapid snowpack consolidation and water temperature fluctuations. Summer offers stable afternoon wind but crowds surge once the pass fully opens. Fall presents the steadiest weather window. Winter access depends on Highway 120 closure cycles and avalanche conditions on the approach.
Mildred Lake suits hikers, backpackers, and alpine lake photographers seeking solitude above treeline. Experienced mountaineers visit for glacier travel and peak traverses on adjacent high Sierra summits. Wind and exposure mean this location is not beginner-friendly for paddling or exposed camp setups. The 30-day average crowding score of 6 reflects low baseline popularity, but traffic spikes during holiday weekends and when Highway 120 first opens. Plan for afternoon wind by scheduling morning activities; avoid mid-day exposed positions. Bring shelter, insulation layers, and sun protection. The lake's glacial melt means cold water year-round.
Mildred Lake pairs naturally with nearby Mono Basin alpine lakes and the high passes of the Yosemite corridor. Visitors often loop between Cathedral Lakes, Glen Aulin, and the Lyell/Maclure glacier routes. If conditions deteriorate (high wind, snow, or crowding), drop to lower-elevation Yosemite Valley or Wawona meadows for shelter and milder temperature. The Yosemite corridor offers greater variety and more stable conditions than this high-altitude site alone.