Upper McCabe Lake
Lake · Yosemite corridor
Upper McCabe Lake sits at 10,492 feet in the Yosemite corridor of California's Sierra Nevada. A high alpine lake accessible from the eastern Sierra approach, it ranks low on the popularity scale and offers solitude above treeline.
Wind dominates here. The 30-day average wind of 14 mph climbs to 30 mph in afternoon gusts, funneling off the high basin. Morning conditions are markedly calmer. Exposure to the open sky means temperature swings are sharp, with 365-day lows near 10 degrees Fahrenheit and peaks near 39 degrees.
Over the last 30 days, Upper McCabe Lake averaged a NoGo Score of 16 with wind peaking at 30 mph and temperatures averaging 24 degrees Fahrenheit. Crowding averaged only 6 out of 100, reflecting its remoteness. The week ahead should track close to these patterns; plan morning visits to avoid afternoon wind and expect sparse foot traffic year-round.
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About Upper McCabe Lake
Upper McCabe Lake sits in the high Sierra backcountry above 10,000 feet, accessed via the eastern Sierra approach through the Yosemite corridor. The lake drains north into the McCabe Creek drainage and lies in terrain that requires a multi-day backpacking commitment. Gateway towns include Lee Vining and Mammoth Lakes on the east side of the Sierra crest, reached via Highway 395. The most direct approach follows established Sierra routes from the Tioga Pass or June Lake Loop area. This is not a roadside destination; expect 4 to 8 hours of hiking to reach the basin depending on exact trailhead and water conditions.
Conditions at Upper McCabe Lake are shaped by its extreme elevation and alpine exposure. The 30-day average temperature of 24 degrees Fahrenheit reflects late-spring conditions; by mid-summer temperatures climb toward 39 degrees. Wind is the dominant factor. The 30-day average wind of 14 mph is deceptive; afternoon gusts regularly reach 30 mph as wind funnels down the open basin. Mornings are calm; the first two hours after sunrise offer the best window. Crowding averages only 6 out of 100, meaning you will rarely encounter other parties. Snow lingers well into early summer at this elevation; confirm melt-out conditions before committing to a trip.
Upper McCabe Lake suits experienced backpackers and high-alpine fishermen seeking solitude and cold-water conditions. The remoteness filters casual visitors. Expect no facilities, no cell service, and no maintained water sources above the lake itself. Weather changes fast; afternoon thunderstorms are common in the warmer months. Wind makes tent placement critical; seek shelter in any pocket of topography on the north or east shore. The 30-day NoGo Score average of 16 and maximum of 34 indicates frequent days when conditions warrant caution. Experienced parties plan 3-day trips to justify the approach and allow flexibility around weather windows.
The McCabe Lakes basin sits upstream of the more accessible areas near Tioga Pass and the main Yosemite approaches. If Upper McCabe Lake's access requires more time or commitment than you have, consider lower-elevation destinations in the Yosemite corridor accessible from Highway 120. The extreme altitude and wind exposure make Upper McCabe Lake a specialist destination; it rewards planning and flexibility more than most high-Sierra lakes. Base popularity of 0.25 confirms it remains a refuge from crowds.