Par Value Lakes
Lake · Yosemite corridor
Par Value Lakes sits at 10,285 ft in the Yosemite corridor of California's Sierra Nevada. This high-elevation alpine lake runs cooler and windier than lower Yosemite Valley destinations.
Wind dominates Par Value Lakes. The 30-day average wind speed is 14 mph, with gusts reaching 33 mph on exposed days. Morning calm typically holds until mid-afternoon; by 2 pm, wind funnels across the open water. Expect rapid temperature swings; the rolling average sits near 25 F, but the annual range spans 10 F to 40 F.
Over the last 30 days, Par Value Lakes averaged a NoGo Score of 15.0 with wind running 14 mph and crowding at 6 on the scale. The week ahead will track similar patterns. Wind remains the primary constraint; afternoon gusts are nearly guaranteed. Plan for early-morning stable windows and expect late-day deterioration.
30 days back / 7 days forward
Today's score by factor
About Par Value Lakes
Par Value Lakes occupies a high-alpine basin in the Yosemite corridor of the Sierra Nevada at 10,285 ft elevation. The lake is accessed via Highway 120 (Tioga Pass Road) and the Tioga Lake / Mono Pass area approach. From Lee Vining, drive northwest on Highway 120; the lakes lie in the upper drainage south of Mono Pass. This is a remote, snow-fed environment; access is seasonal and requires high-clearance or four-wheel drive in early season. The nearest gateway towns are Lee Vining to the east and Tuolumne Meadows to the west. Winter snow closure is typical; Highway 120 often remains gated until late May.
Weather at Par Value Lakes is shaped by extreme elevation and exposure. The 30-day rolling average temperature is 25 F, far colder than Yosemite Valley. Wind is relentless; the 30-day average is 14 mph, with peak gusts reaching 33 mph. The rolling 30-day NoGo Score averages 15.0, indicating frequent conditions that discourage exposure. Crowding averages 6 on the scale, reflecting the remoteness and seasonal access. Late spring and early autumn bring the narrowest windows of stability. Summer afternoons warm but intensify wind; winter locks the lakes under snow. The annual temperature range spans 10 F to 40 F, so plan for prolonged cold and rapid thermal swings.
Par Value Lakes suits experienced high-altitude explorers, backcountry photographers, and parties comfortable with wind exposure and cold. The site is best for early-morning activities; arrive before dawn if you intend to fish, camp, or kayak. Afternoon wind renders the open water choppy and unsuitable for paddling. Parking is primitive; bring all supplies from Lee Vining or Tuolumne Meadows. Snow lingers into early summer; confirm snowpack conditions before committing. The low base popularity (0.25) means minimal crowds, but isolation also means self-sufficiency. Bring layers, windproof shells, and shelter suitable for 25 F averages and 33 mph gusts.
Nearby alternatives in the Yosemite corridor include Tioga Lake, 5 miles south, which offers easier access and fractionally lower exposure. Mono Lake offers a distinct (lower-elevation, warmer, less windy) environment to the east. Tuolumne Meadows lakes to the west sit at similar elevation but are reached via different access roads. Par Value Lakes remains the domain of committed visitors seeking true alpine solitude and acceptance of high wind, cold, and seasonal closure.