The dog-friendly six-mile Saddlebag Lake Loop Trail rewards hikers with outstanding scenery and a grade gentle enough for children and folks with arthritic knees. That said, the elevation—over 10,000 the whole way—adds to the exertion required.
Getting there:
From Highway 395 at Lee Vining, take Highway 120 toward Tioga Pass and Yosemite National Park. Drive about eight miles up the winding road to Tioga Pass Resort/cafe. The road to Saddlebag Lake splits off from 120 just before the resort. There is a parking lot and a campground.