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California
3.0 mi
Distance
306 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
Kirkwood Lake Loop
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.
Kirkwood Lake Loop is an accessible 3-mile circuit offering a gentle introduction to the Sierra Nevada landscape. This easy loop circles a scenic alpine lake with moderate elevation gain, making it ideal for families and casual hikers seeking mountain views without strenuous effort. The trail provides opportunities to enjoy subalpine meadows and forest scenery typical of the Kirkwood area.
Lake Margaret
~1 min drive
Scenic alpine lake hike with moderate elevation gain and mountain views.
Emigrant Lake
~1 min drive
Moderate 8.83-mile hike to scenic alpine lake with 1,713 ft elevation gain.
Sentinels
~1 min drive
Easy 2.6-mile walk with minimal elevation gain, perfect for casual hikers.
Strawberry Creek
~4 min drive
Easy creek-side walk through woodland with minimal elevation gain.
Thunder Mountain Loop
~3 min drive
Moderate 9.5-mile loop with 1,820 ft elevation gain and panoramic mountain views.
Thunder Mountain
~3 min drive
Quick 1.2-mile climb to Thunder Mountain with 181 ft elevation gain.
Minkalo
~6 min drive
Easy 4.26-mile trail with gentle elevation gain near Minkalo.
Pardoes 4Wd Trail
~10 min drive
13.6-mile 4WD trail with 876 ft gain through California backcountry.
Schneider Camp
~4 min drive
Easy 1.55-mile forest walk to a historic camp with minimal elevation gain.
Granite Lake
~7 min drive
Scenic alpine lake hike with granite peaks and steady mountain views.