Hike Distance: 4.6 miles (7.4 km) to lake's edge and back (round trip)
Elizabeth Lake elevation: 9,500 feet (2,850 meters)
Total elevation gain: 900 feet (270 meters)
The green line marking the Elizabeth Lake trail may appear to start in the middle of nowhere, but it's actually at the far end of the Tuolumne Meadows campground, and you can drive directly to it.
The trail doesn't actually stop at lake's edge, but rather goes all the way around it. If you're a descendant of Magellan and like to circumnavigate things, you'll find Elizabeth Lake highly satisfying. Budget enough time to walk all the way around the lake no matter who your ancestors are; it's the prettiest part of the hike. This will add about half a mile to your total distance.