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Granite, Hidden lakes
July 21-27, 2021 GET OUTSIDE
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hile much of California is parched, lakes in higher elevations offer plenty of enjoyment. Such was the case hiking to Granite and Hidden lakes in the Eldorado National Forest in Amador County. This is the third Granite Lake in the greater Lake Tahoe area that I have hiked to. (One is in Desolation Wilderness and the other in Mokelumne Wilderness near Blue Lakes.) With granite being the dominate rock in the Sierra, it would seem like even more bodies of water could have this name. Surprisingly, though, there were some volcanic formations closer to Silver Lake.
Hard to beat the tranquility of the high
FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Granite Lake is a good spot to cool off in the summer heat; A dragon fly finds a spot to rest near one of the lakes; One of the bodies of water without a name along the route.
country for refueling.
A few wildflowers decorated the landscape, which added to the abundance of natural beauty. Stopping near water the mosquitoes came out, but they were not much of a bother while hiking. My friend Becky and I opted to have lunch out of view from Hidden Lake, which meant we didn’t become lunch for any mosquitoes. Hard to beat the tranquility of the high country for refueling. It’s possible to make this a loop. From Hidden Lake, the trail goes to Plasse’s campground area on the other side of Silver Lake and then winds back to the starting point. However, the trail is not always well marked or easy to find. That’s why we opted to make this an out and back.
An island at Granite Lake enticed a few people to swim to it despite the chilly water. This was definitely the prettier of our two destination lakes on this day. It was more inviting to get in with its clearer water.
THE TRAIL 7.21 miles | Easy to moderate Elevation gain 528 feet | Dogs OK
DIRECTIONS | From South Lake Tahoe While Silver Lake was the starting point, it was not the focal point. That was a good thing because it can be crowded in summer. A few no-name lakes are in the area, providing plenty of water for four-legged friends. In the spring, or when there is an actual spring runoff, some of the creek crossings could be dicey for those with balance issues. Reportedly at the bridge crossing a nice waterfall flows. Not in a drought year, though.
In mid-June several downed trees still crossed the dirt path. Some required climbing over, while ducking was necessary at times. In some places a path had been created to skirt around the horizontal timber. Otherwise, this would be a fairly easy hike for most people who can handle this elevation. No poles were needed. It felt like a pretty flat trail most of the way — and in both directions. The only thing that might be a challenge is following the trail. In the granite sections be sure to look for the cairns.
go west on Highway 50. In Meyers, take Highway 89 toward Hope Valley. In Hope Valley at the T go right on Highway 88. Go past Carson Pass and Kirkwood. Turn left at Kit Carson Lodge. There will be a small wye in the road; go left. (You will be on a narrow road, bypassing lots of cabins and side roads.) At the next intersection go straight and not toward Silver Lake. At the following intersection go right, following the sign to Granite Lake. Minkalo Trail sign will be on the left. If parking is full, continue a bit farther for more spots. | fs.usda.gov
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