Backpack to Lake of the Woods, Desolation Wilderness in the Tahoe Basin

For a loop within Desolation Wildnerness and El Dorado National Forest, we parked one car at the top of Echo Lake, and we parked the other at the Ralston Peak Trailhead.  This is where we started our adventure.  The advantage of doing so is that you will ascend at the beginning of your trip, leaving you with descending trails down to Echo Lakes.  

Starting at Ralston Peak Trailhead at an elevation of 6,500 feet, you can reach the peak of Mt. Ralston in 2.5-3.5 hours. The elevation gain from the start of the trailhead to the peak is 2,735 ft., with Mt. Ralston at an elevation of 9,235 ft.  See as pictured.  You'll see granite slabs, and views of Lake Aloha, the Upper and Lower Echo Lakes, Tamarack Lake, and Fallen Leaf Lake beyond.

To continue on to Lake of the Woods, descend Mt. Ralston, then continuing on the trail that leads to Lake Aloha, Lake of the Woods, and the PCT.  There are 25 spots to set up camp there at Lake of the Woods and each of them offer a view that is utterly breathtaking!  **see photos.  Take a plunge in this icy alpine lake for a nice muscle relaxant. 

Once you've set up camp, you can access the Pacific Crest Trail to Lake Aloha.  You'll see signs to Lake Lucille. 

As you head to Echo Lakes, there is a nice dip at Tamarack Lake on your way.  Continue the busy and trafficked trail to Echo Lakes- first Lower and then Upper.  The entire round trip has been estimated to be about 15-20 miles.