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California
8.8 mi
Distance
1,713 ft
Gain
We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.
What we do know
Inside Eldorado National Forest
2 managing-area boundaries mapped — agency alerts for them feed this page automatically.
Boundary data
What's missing
No access route mapped
We don't yet know which road reaches this trailhead, so we can't tell you if it's gated.
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Why you'll love it
Emigrant Lake
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
Emigrant Lake offers a moderate 8.83-mile round trip with 1,713 feet of elevation gain, making it an excellent choice for hikers seeking alpine scenery without extreme difficulty. The trail ascends through mixed terrain to reach the picturesque lake nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, providing rewarding views and a refreshing destination. This hike balances accessibility with genuine mountain experience, featuring typical Sierra granite formations and potential wildflower displays depending on season.
Lake Margaret
~0 min drive
Scenic alpine lake hike with moderate elevation gain and mountain views.
Sentinels
~2 min drive
Easy 2.6-mile walk with minimal elevation gain, perfect for casual hikers.
Thunder Mountain Loop
~4 min drive
Moderate 9.5-mile loop with 1,820 ft elevation gain and panoramic mountain views.
Kirkwood Lake Loop
~1 min drive
Easy 3-mile alpine lake loop with gentle elevation gain.
Schneider Camp
~3 min drive
Easy 1.55-mile forest walk to a historic camp with minimal elevation gain.
Bryan Meadow
~10 min drive
Moderate meadow hike with steady elevation gain and scenic grassland views.
Strawberry Creek
~5 min drive
Easy creek-side walk through woodland with minimal elevation gain.
Thunder Mountain
~4 min drive
Quick 1.2-mile climb to Thunder Mountain with 181 ft elevation gain.
Summit City
~10 min drive
Moderate 6.4-mile foothill hike with 416 ft elevation gain and scenic ridge views.
Minkalo
~7 min drive
Easy 4.26-mile trail with gentle elevation gain near Minkalo.