Ellery Lake Photos – Roadside Stop On The Way

Given it’s sparse, eastern Sierra location, this may not be the most picturesque mountain lake for much of the year. However, visit just after Tioga Road opens and there’s still snow on the surrounding peaks – you’ll be in for quite a treat! Simply beautiful. Here are some Ellery Lake photos I snapped from the roadside.

Snow-capped peaks - Ellery Lake photos — Snow-capped peaks at Ellery Lake

Funny how much of a difference the patchy snow makes. I came here in late summer the year before, to be honest, this scenery was a bit bland. This year it was early July when I visited, and there was so much snow the previous winter.

I really can’t believe the night and day contrast the added snow makes. Almost looks like Lake Tahoe or something.

Snowy mountain tops around the shore. — Lakeside mountains

Apparently there’s a small (but incredibly scenic) campground here as well. I believe sites cost $22, and are first come first served. As far as I know, fishing and boating is quite popular at this location as well.

Ellery lake in late Summer — Lake view, taken the previous year I believe

I read there are some falls near here, but I guess they are nothing to write home about. If it’s waterfalls you’re looking for (especially in fall), check out nearby Lee Vining canyon. That was a very pleasant discovery!

Really, one of the best things about Ellery Lake is the fact that it is literally right along the road. Assuming you arrive at the right time, just pull over at the viewpoint and snap some pictures on your way to (or from) Yosemite.

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– Nathan Allen

About Me

I’m Nathan Allen, photographer / creator of YosemiteParkPhotos.com (Yosemite Photos) and international travel site I Dreamed Of This. In truth, I lived in San Francisco, New York, & Singapore…but nothing compares to life in the mountains. I share my experiences HERE.