Cathedral Lakes, Yosemite NP

You’ll find plenty of parking at the trailhead, and be sure to empty your car of anything that smells like food and store it in the bear-proof lockers provided.

The trail climbs gently upward at the outset and gains a thousand feet in the first mile, but since most of the rest of the hike is either on the level or downhill you can reassure yourself that this will be the hardest part of your hike. Much of the mileage covered is within sheltered evergreen forest, yet with ample opportunities to marvel in the rightly famous Yosemite National Park landscape.

So, how much walking can you handle today? Tackle both lakes and you're looking at a 8.3 mile trek, but you can shorten your hike by visiting just the Upper Lake (7.2 miles total) or just the Lower Lake (7.0 miles).

There are several small trails which veer off from the main route and transport you to Lower Cathedral Lake. Head for the water's edge, or alternatively try a circuitous route of the lake.

This elevated and more enclosed lake sits in a bowl surrounded on all sides by towering granite landmarks including both the Cathedral and Tresidder Peaks.

If you fancy a great photo opportunity, be sure to take a look over your shoulder for great vistas of Cathedral Peak.

Rest on the open, sloping granite banks of Lower Cathedral Lake looking westerly over a great watery expanse towards Yosemite Valley and spot the deer grazing by the lake's edge.