Wheeler Lake Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Geological Significance · Lake · Views · Wildflowers

Parking is free, the closest toilets and water are at Lake Alpine. On busy weekends expect lots of traffic on the narrow road near the lake.

Starting at the Woodchuck Basin dirt parking area off Hwy 4, (elev. ~7800') the trail takes you through a nice wooded section opening up to great views of the cliff face of the ridge above. The next section is open and exposed but the well-marked trail allows easy ascent to the crest of the ridge with great views all around.

You then begin a steep descent to the lake and will likely encounter grazing cattle. I was surprised to learn that the area is used for summer pasture even though it's inside the Mokelumne Wilderness. Unless you enjoy lots of "cow pies" and hiking on torn up trails, the rest of this hike may be a disappointment. And the cows are in the lake too, which might otherwise be an inviting place for a refreshing alpine swim.

Wildflowers, birds and chipmonks for sure. Deer and black bears possibly but most will avoid the area when the cattle and cowboys are around.