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California
0.8 mi
Distance
68 ft
Gain
No conditions check on file for this trail yet — always verify current conditions before you go.
Why you'll love it
Shell Lake
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
Shell Lake is a short and accessible alpine lake hike perfect for families and casual hikers seeking mountain scenery without extensive commitment. This easy trail climbs gently through mixed forest to reach a scenic alpine lake, offering peaceful water views and opportunities for picnicking or photography. The minimal elevation gain and short distance make it an ideal choice for a quick outdoor escape in the California mountains.
Gaylor Lakes Trailhead
~3 min drive
<p>This short but steep hike offers spectacular high-country views, wildflowers in the summer, and lake views. From the trailhead, located right next to Tioga Pass, climb steadily to a ridge with views of the high Sierra including Mt. Dana and Dana Meadows. At the ridge crest,…
Mono Pass Trailhead
~6 min drive
<p>This historic trans-Sierra trail climbs gradually through lodgepole pines and past wet meadows. In mid-summer, look for red mountain heather blooming trailside. After the Spillway Lake junction, the trail climbs steadily and more steeply to Mono Pass (elevation 10,600 feet)…
Elizabeth Lake Trailhead
~12 min drive
<p>The trail climbs steadily to a glacier-carved lake at the base of Unicorn Peak in the heart of the Cathedral Range. A one-mile trail circles the lake. The trail begins at the back of the B loop in the Tuolumne Meadows Campground.<br /> <br /> <strong>Distance: </strong>4.8…
Cathedral Lakes Trailhead
~13 min drive
<p>Cathedral Lakes are nestled at the foot of Cathedral Peak. In addition to the lakes themselves, hikers will enjoy views of Cathedral Peak and Echo Peak. The trail through this area is part of the John Muir Trail, which sees high traffic all season. The area is also popular…
Sunrise Lakes Trailhead
~24 min drive
<h2>Sunrise Lakes</h2> <p>Indeed, a beautiful place to see sunrise, the lakes at Sunrise reflect the colors in the sky as well as the domed peaks that surround it. A short distance from the lakes, the Sunrise High Sierra Camp faces east for sunrise views. Reservations are requ…
Gardisky Lake
~2 min drive
Ultra-short walk to an alpine lake with minimal elevation change.
Saddlebag Lake Loop
~3 min drive
Easy alpine lake loop with minimal elevation gain and spectacular Sierra views.
Shepherd Crest
~7 min drive
Easy alpine walk with scenic ridge views near Shepherd Crest.
Gibbs Lake
~10 min drive
Short alpine lake hike with steady elevation gain and scenic rewards.
Bloody Canyon
~12 min drive
Steep alpine climb with 2,080 ft gain offering dramatic Sierra views.
