Mount Lyell

Mount Lyell is considered the highest point in Yosemite National Park, since it stands at 13,120 feet above sea level. Mount Lyell, geographically speaking, is to the southeast of the Cathedral Range roughly 1.2 miles from Rodgers Peak in the northwest. The peak is named for Charles Lyell, who was a 19th century geologist of some note. At the time the peak had one of the largest glaciers, which was called Lyell Glacier. This glacier is still one of the largest in the park, though like many it has receded in recent years.

Mount Lyell separates Tuolumne River watershed to the north, Merced to the West, and Rush Creek draining near Mono Lake Basin in the southeast. The main recreational draw of Mount Lyell is climbing. The best approach is from Tuolumne Meadows, which can be reached by John Muir Trail. The round trip is 25 miles and involves 4,500 feet of elevation gain. This will start at Tuolumne Wilderness Office. The hike goes through the meadow following Tuolumne River, through Lyell Canyon. Before visitors reach Donahue Pass the trail turns to the south towards Mount Lyell. There is a climbing class that discusses how to climb the mountain and the glacier.