Hidden Lake

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Fishing · Lake · River/Creek · Spring · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers

This hike is more than a journey; it's an experience that immerses you in the serene and breathtaking beauty of the Sierra Nevada, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the natural wonders that await at every turn.

Parking is limited, so arrive early and be considerate of fellow adventurers, overflow can be found at Silver Lake campground as well as restrooms, Gas station .1 miles east of Kirkwood ski resort

Drive to the end of Kit Carson Road, where parking is limited, so arrive early and be considerate of fellow adventurers. The trail begins with a gentle ascent, inviting you to traverse a blend of soft forest loam and exposed granite for the first two miles. Your reward is Granite Lake, a pristine gem framed by majestic granite formations and the awe-inspiring backdrop of Thunder Mountain, with Kirkwood Ski Resort nestled just beyond.

Pause here to soak in the picturesque scenery, perhaps even setting up camp at one of the designated sites equipped with fire rings deemed safe by the El Dorado National Forest Service. The journey from Granite Lake to Hidden Lake is a serene two-mile stretch, where the trail mellows out and the soft mountain loam cushions each step. As you near Hidden Lake, you may encounter a seasonal stream—depending on the snowpack and time of year, it can be a gentle wade or a playful hop from rock to rock, never deeper than knee-high.

Upon arriving at Hidden Lake, you'll find more established campsites with familiar fire pit markings. Here, the tranquility of the alpine lake invites you to relax and revel in nature's untouched beauty. Whether you choose to rest and reflect, set up camp for a memorable overnight stay, or continue your adventure on the trail leading down to the charming town of Plasse before looping back to Granite Lake Trailhead, Hidden Lake offers a captivating escape.