fIEld guide
Field Notes: Hike To Upper Sardine Lake
This is one of our absolute favorite places to adventure, offering breathtaking views that BLOW YOUR MIND! Enjoy an easy hike to what is one of the most scenic spots in the Sierra. While there you can take a dip in a pristine remote Alpine Lake, fish, hike and listen up, insider tip…take a paddle board or kayak and there’s a secret hidden waterfall with swimming holes that are the most beautiful place to cool off on a sunny day.
Upper Sardine Lake
TRAIL INFO FOR UPPER SARDINE LAKE
Length
The hike to Upper Sardine Lake is 1.5 out and back. This trail is easy to moderate with some elevation gain.
How to Access
Take CA Highway 49 to Bassets then turn right onto Gold Lake Highway. Take the left turn off towards Sardine Lake and park next to Sardine Lake Resort. If using a GPS simply enter Sardine Lake Resort and it will take you right where you need to park.
When facing Lower Sardine Lake with the Sierra Butte mountain range in front of you, take the dirt road that runs up the right hand side of the lake. Follow the trail up until you make it over the ridge, where you will discover the secret hidden gem that is Upper Sardine Lake. Now dive in and cool off…you’ve deserved it!
Enjoy views of Lower Sardine Lake on the trail
Insider Secrets
Lower Sardine Lake where you begin your hike does not allow swimming, but bring your paddle board or kayak or rent one of the small fishing boats available in summer and head to the top right hand corner of the lake. Tie up your boat and hike up the hill to find THE most glorious waterfall with swimming holes. Not to be missed
After adventuring, Sardine Lake Resort has the most adorable Tiki Bar that hangs over the lake for an afternoon cocktail to end your day on the right note.
What To Bring
This trail does not have much shade, so be sure to pack your favorite sun hat and smother yourself in suncreen. For our Yappy Campers, on really hot days, be careful of your dogs paws, this hike is rock and can get really hot on their tootsies.
Pack a picnic. Lunchspots with an awe-inspiring view do not get better than this. There are picnic tables on the edge of Lower Sardine Lake or pack light and take your lunch to the upper lake and use a rock for your table.
Remember, leave only footprints! Pack out what you pack in and help maintain our beautiful backyard
