Top 20 Lakes in the Sierra Nevada
Best lakes in the Sierra Nevada are found throughout this mountain range, renowned for its diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region features an abundance of lakes, from expansive, deep blue waters to serene alpine tarns. These natural features are celebrated for their beauty and the experiences they provide. The Sierra Nevada offers a variety of aquatic environments for exploration.
Best lakes in the Sierra Nevada
- The most popular lakes is Mirror Lake, a lake that is a small, seasonal body of water on Tenaya Creek. It is the last remnant of a large glacial lake that once filled most of the Yosemite Valley.
- Another must-see spot is Eagle Lake (Desolation Wilderness), a natural monument offering a stunning alpine lake surrounded by granite peaks. Visitors can expect a serene atmosphere and clear waters, ideal for fishing or admiring its beauty.
- Visitors also love Emerald Bay, a lake offering views of vibrant emerald-green waters. It is notable for its shallow depth and features like Fannette Island and the historic Vikingsholm Castle.
- Sierra Nevada is known for its alpine, glacial, and deep blue lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from high-altitude gems to more accessible bodies of water.
- The lakes in the Sierra Nevada are appreciated by the komoot community, with 112 upvotes and 73 photos shared across 466 highlights.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Mirror Lake
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Eagle Lake (Desolation Wilderness)
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Dicks and Fontanillis lakes are separated by only about a third of a mile. Both lakes press up against 9,374-foot Dicks Peak. Nearby are the Velma Lakes, a cluster of 3 great fishing lakes that draw the majority of campers who come up the trail from Tahoe.
Eagle Falls Trailhead to Bayview Trail Junction, 2.7 miles
From the Eagle Falls trailhead the hike up to and across a bridge and then begin a steady climb. Stop half way up to catch a view of Emerald Bay. In less than a mile, a side trail splits off to Eagle Lake. Take the Velma Lakes trail.
Despite occasional dips and level spots, most of the hike is uphill, many parts of it with steps. After 2.7 miles arrive at a ridge top and an intersection with the Bayview trail.
Velma Lakes
Bayview Trail to Dicks Lake or Fontanillis Lake,
1.75 miles or 2.5 miles
Continue toward Velma Lakes for 0.7 miles until you spot a trail sign which points you toward Dicks Lake. The trail soon climbs again with switchbacks. Look for views of Velma Lakes to the north. After a mile you strike the Pacific Crest Trail. There, turn right, heading southwest. Very soon, where the trail loops back to the north, you will spy Dicks Lake off through the trees. Follow a short side trail to the lake. By continuing north on the main hiking trail for 0.75 miles you arrive at half-mile-long Fontanillis Lake. Both make excellent places to camp.
highsierratrails.com/fontanillis_dicks_lakes/trail.html
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desolation_Wilderness
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Granite Lake
Highlight • Lake
From the Bayview Trailhead (about 2100 m) head northwest from the trailhead sign board. The trail will climb steeply the entire way. You will pass a great viewpoint for views of Emerald Bay before reaching Granite Lake. The trail continues to climb after Granite Lake before reaching the ridge crest giving you a view of Eagle lake off the back side. To summit South Maggies Peak continue on the trail a short 100 yards after reaching the ridge and then turn off trail and scramble up the back side of the peak. There is a faint trail but its hard to find from the trail and can be found for the return trip off the summit.
You can create a loop hike by combining this hike with Eagle Falls and Eagle Lake. Once you reach the ridge just below South Maggies peak. Continue up the trail along the ridge. At the next trail junction turn right onto the Eagle Falls Trail.
A wilderness permit is needed to hike to both Granite Lake and Maggies Peaks. Wilderness permits are available for free at the trailhead.
How to get there:
From South Lake Tahoe: head north on highway 89 for 7.5 miles. Turn left into Bayview Campground opposite Inspiration Point which is the scenic overlook located one mile before you get to Emerald Bay. A wooden sign points right to the trailhead on the backside of the campground.
From Tahoe City: head south on highway 89 for 19.5 miles. Turn right into Bayview Campground opposite Inspiration Point which is the scenic overlook located one mile before you get to Emerald Bay. A wooden sign points right to the trailhead on the backside of the campground.
trailwiki.org/wiki/Granite_Lake_and_Maggies_Peaks
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Tenaya Lake
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Thousand Island Lake
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Since this area is especially popular in the summer, you'll need an Inyo Natioal Forest permit to stay overnight, which you can apply for online six months prior your hike here: recreation.gov/permits/233262
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Emerald Bay
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Mono Lake (South Tufa Area)
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Hidden Beach, Lake Tahoe
Highlight • Beach
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Lower Echo Lake
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Tahoe East Shore Trail: Incline Village to Sand Harbor
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Tips from the Community
Nestled between giant granite domes and the clear skies of the Sierra Nevada, Tenaya Lake is the largest lake in Yosemite's frontcountry. Due to its remarkable scenic qualities, inviting blue waters, and proximity to Tioga Road, Tenaya Lake is one of the most popular destinations for summer visitors to Yosemite. It is very popular for picnicking, swimming, and canoeing. Tenaya Lake was named after Chief Tenaya, the last chief of the Yosemite Indians.
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Hiking around Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay offers amazing views of the bay's vibrant emerald-green waters, more vibrant than other parts of the lake due to its shallow depth. Visitors can explore Fannette Island, home to the remains of a teahouse, and tour the old 1929 Scandinavian-style Vikingsholm Castle. The Eagle Falls Trail provides a scenic 2-mile hike to Eagle Lake, while the Rubicon Trail hugs the bay’s edge with stunning lake views. Emerald Bay also has California's first maritime heritage trail, showcasing sunken ships and barges. Nearby, the Tallac Historic Site offers a glimpse into Lake Tahoe’s early 1900s history. This area has a ton to do, and hikers can easily spend the whole day exploring.
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A stunning alpine lake surrounded by granite peaks, offering breathtaking scenery and a serene atmosphere. Enjoy the clarity of the lake, ideal for fishing, or simply admiring its beauty.
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Above Mirror lake the route was flooded when we took it in April. But it was possible to climb above the river and bypass.
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The trail from Incline Village to Sand Harbor is a must for anyone visiting North Lake Tahoe. There is one hill as you leave/enter Incline Village, but the rest of the trail is flat and follows along Tahoe's east shore, with incredible views around every corner. Eventually you'll end up at the fantastic Sand Harbor State Park, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and water before heading back to Incline Village.
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Hidden Beach actually isn't that hidden anymore but located about one mile south of Incline Village. But that doesn't make it less beautiful and you will love to go for a swim and enjoy the boulder-shoreline.
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Thousand Island Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Sierra Nevada. It's name comes from the shimmering stone islands that make up it's unique and a true postcard motif. On its eastern shore, the Pacific Crest and John Muir Trail converge again.
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These bizarre rock formations are formed in and around Mono Lake from the salty, alkaline water of Mono Lake in connection with underground springs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes in the Sierra Nevada?
The Sierra Nevada is home to many beloved lakes. Among the most popular are Mirror Lake, known for being the last remnant of a large glacial lake in Yosemite Valley, and Eagle Lake (Desolation Wilderness), which offers stunning alpine scenery. Emerald Bay on Lake Tahoe is also a must-see, famous for its vibrant green waters and historic sites.
Which lakes in the Sierra Nevada are particularly family-friendly?
Many lakes in the Sierra Nevada are great for families. Tenaya Lake in Yosemite National Park is very popular for picnicking, swimming, and canoeing. Shaver Lake is also an excellent choice for families, providing opportunities for swimming and boating with available rentals. Lower Echo Lake is another family-friendly option with facilities and parking.
What unique natural features can I expect to see at the Sierra Nevada lakes?
The Sierra Nevada lakes boast diverse natural features. Mono Lake is famous for its distinctive "tufa towers," calcium-carbonate spires rising from its saline waters. Thousand Island Lake in the Ansel Adams Wilderness is known for its many small islands and reflections of Banner Peak. The Big Pine Lakes are characterized by their vibrant turquoise, glacier-fed waters.
What is the best time of year to visit the Sierra Nevada lakes?
The best time to visit depends on your desired activities. Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination. Summer is ideal for water sports, fishing (especially in the June Lake Loop), and hiking to alpine lakes. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter transforms the region into a popular destination for skiing and snow activities near lakes like June Lake. Some high-altitude lakes may only be accessible in warmer months.
Are there accessible lakes for visitors who prefer less strenuous activities?
Yes, several lakes offer easy access. Donner Lake provides a relaxed atmosphere for kayaking and paddleboarding with public piers. Convict Lake has an easy 2.5-mile loop trail and an accessible boat ramp. Lake Sabrina is easily reached by car from Bishop, offering stunning glacial views without extensive hiking. Tenaya Lake is also easily accessible from Tioga Road.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the Sierra Nevada lakes?
The Sierra Nevada lakes region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging climbs, often leading to stunning viewpoints like those around Granite Lake. Water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming, and fishing are popular on many lakes. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes like the Lake Tahoe loop and touring bicycle routes such as the Yosemite Valley Loop Trail. Explore more options in the Mountain Hikes, Road Cycling, and Cycling guides for the Sierra Nevada.
Which lakes are best for hiking and backpacking in the Sierra Nevada?
For hiking and backpacking, the Sierra Nevada offers incredible options. Thousand Island Lake is a popular backpacking destination with an 8-mile hike on the River Trail. The Big Pine Lakes are excellent for both day hikes and multi-day trips, known for their vibrant turquoise waters. Rae Lakes in Kings Canyon National Park is a renowned overnight destination, accessible via Kearsarge Pass or Bubbs Creek Trail, connecting to the John Muir Trail.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the Sierra Nevada lakes?
Yes, particularly around Lake Tahoe. Emerald Bay features the historic Vikingsholm Castle and Fannette Island with its teahouse remains. The area also boasts California's first maritime heritage trail, showcasing sunken ships. Nearby, the Tallac Historic Site offers a glimpse into Lake Tahoe’s early 1900s history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in the Sierra Nevada?
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, from the exceptionally clear, deep blue waters of Lake Tahoe to the rugged granite backdrops of Convict Lake. Many appreciate the serene atmosphere, the diverse recreational opportunities like swimming in Eagle Lake, and the stunning views, especially at sunrise over Thousand Island Lake. The accessibility of some lakes for families and the challenging trails for adventurers also contribute to their appeal.
Can I find good spots for wild swimming in the Sierra Nevada lakes?
Many of the Sierra Nevada lakes offer refreshing opportunities for wild swimming, especially during the warmer months. Lakes like Eagle Lake are known for their clear waters, perfect for a dip after a hike. Granite Lake is another excellent spot for a relaxing swim. For a more secluded experience, explore the numerous alpine tarns found throughout the backcountry.
Are there any lakes known for their fishing opportunities?
Absolutely. The June Lake Loop, encompassing June, Silver, Gull, and Grant Lakes, is renowned as an epicenter for world-class trout fishing in the Eastern Sierra during summer. Bass Lake is also a popular spot for fishing, set amidst fragrant pine forests. Many of the alpine lakes, such as those in the Desolation Wilderness near Eagle Lake, also offer excellent fishing experiences.
Which lakes offer scenic drives or viewpoints?
The June Lake Loop provides a highly scenic drive along Highway 395, offering beautiful mountain views. For stunning vistas of Lake Tahoe, the Tahoe East Shore Trail from Incline Village to Sand Harbor is a must-do, offering Caribbean-like beaches and panoramic views. Emerald Bay also offers iconic views of its vibrant waters.
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Still not found your perfect lake in the Sierra Nevada? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
