Deer Lake Trail
DESCRIPTION:
This scenic lake includes panoramic views of the Basin with Sierra Buttes and Crest dominating. Deer Lake’s rich blue color is deeper than the sky on a cloud free day. Time it right, and there will be abundant flowers along the trail to enjoy. The hike in is just a nice way to spend the day.
Deer Lake was stocked with both rainbows and Kamloop Junction varieties (2000
Grass Lake Trail branches to right on ridge 1.5 miles above trailhead. The 0.25 mile hike and drop of only 80’ elevation is worth it to watch wildlife enjoying the quiet. Leave the fishing pole in your pack.
Beginning 0.2 mile north of Deer Lake another trail connects to the Pacific Crest Trail on the Sierra Crest.
More options: return via Upper Salmon Lake Trail branching off just after reaching Deer Lake. Best if you’ve arranged transportation to Upper Salmon parking. Or take the connector trail to the Sierra Crest and the Pacific Crest Trail. From the Sierra Crest the options are infinite.
| Miles | Elevation Range | Options |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 6160’-7100’ |
|
DIRECTIONS:
To Deer Lake Trail
Topographic map: Gold Lake. Begins across road from Packsaddle Campground parking.
ACTIVITIES:
Equestrian Trail Riding (Rating: Best)
Equestrian Campground at PackSaddle Campground. Use the trail to connect to or from the PCT on Segment #10 to the A-Tree.
Hiking: Dayhikes (Rating: Best)
A perfect way to spend the day.
Hiking: Backpacking (Rating: Good)
A perfect way to spend the night! This is a good beginners backpacking opportunity or a nice family trip with kids. The trail is easy but the lake is too lovely to just turn around and leave.
During the day also hike down to Horse Lake or even Upper Salmon Lake for a dayhike once you set up camp. Or if you or your kids a full of energy, then take the connection trail up to the Sierra Crest.
