Loch Leven Lakes Trail
DESCRIPTION:
The basin contains a pleasant cluster of five lakes, including Salmon Lake. The setting is dramatic and starkly dominated with glaciated granite and clumps of forest. Views of North Fork American River canyon and Snow Mountain easily make you forget you’re only a few miles from I-80. Very popular hike. Fishing: rainbows and Eastern Brook 10"-15" (stocked 2000), and some slightly larger browns.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5780’-6860’ | Destinations can be any of the three lakes, 3 miles to 5 miles. Salmon Lake is a nice sidetrip. Fisher Lake and Nancy Lake are cross-country scrambles from the Upper Loch Leven Lake. Take a good map and great hiking boots for the boulder hopping. The plateau is beautiful and worth spend time. The ultimate option is to drop down into the North Fork of the American River via the Cherry Point and Big Granite Trails. |
DIRECTIONS:
To Loch Leven Lakes Trail
Topographic Maps: Cisco Grove, Soda Springs.
Trailhead is located 0.25 miles east of Big Bend on Old Hwy 40. From there it’s 3 miles to the Lower Lake. The trail to Salmon Lake via Salmon Lake Extension Trail splits to the right (west) at far (south) end of the Lower Lake. It's signed well. High Loch Leven Lake is 5 miles total distance from the trailhead.
ACTIVITIES:
Hiking: Dayhikes (Rating: Best)
The upper end after the climb is exceptional.
Hiking: Backpacking (Rating: Exceptional)
You can camp at any of the three lakes or even Salmon Lake. But the best overnight destination is the Upper Loch Leven Lake. But it's also popular. The views into the canyon and Snow Mountain are inspiring.
