Alpine Meadows, California
The best Trails and Outdoor Activities in Alpine Meadows, California, are a must-visit for those seeking scenic outdoor adventures. A top choice is the Five Lakes Trail, a moderate 5-mile round trip hike that offers stunning views of granite peaks and five beautiful alpine lakes. This trail is ideal for hiking, backpacking, and bird watching. The Pacific Crest Trail, a long-distance trail extending over 2,650 miles, also passes through Alpine Meadows, offering a more challenging hike with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Another nearby attraction is the Truckee River, perfect for whitewater rafting and fishing. For rock climbing enthusiasts, the Donner Summit is just a short drive away. These outdoor activities make Alpine Meadows a top destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Top Spots in and near Alpine Meadows
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Alpine County, California
Hike The Sisters in the Mokelumnee Wilderness
8 mi / 2500 ft gainThe Sisters offer a great day hike with fun scrambling and beautiful views of the Northern Sierra, Lake Tahoe, the Mokelumnee Wilderness, and the Carson River Canyon.The trail to The Sisters begins at Woods Lake (38.6855° N, 120.0095° W), at the end of Woods Lake Road off Highway 88, 1.5 miles we...Read more -
Sparks, Nevada
Sparks Marina Loop
3.01.94 mi / 30 ft gainSparks Marina Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Sparks, Nevada.Read more -
Sparks, Nevada
Stand-Up Paddleboard at the Sparks Marina
5.0The Sparks Marina, just minutes from downtown Reno, is a convenient and fun place to learn how to SUP or to spend an afternoon out on the lake. The Sparks Marina Park has ample parking and several places to put in, but there are also numerous others around the marina, including a lovely inlet on ...Read more -
Sierra City, California
Camp at Sardine Lake Campground
5.0This campground is first come first serve and is located near Lower Sardine Lake. There are a couple bathrooms located around the loop. Most campsites have trees, perfect for hammocking and shade. The campsite has great views of the mountains. There are a couple hiking trails nearby. Lower Sard...Read more -
Calpine, California
Camp at the Calpine Fire Lookout
5.0I think all explorers agree there is nothing more serene than being surrounded by nothing but wilderness. If you are one of these said explorers, a trip to Calpine's fire lookout is a must.Calpine is a forest fire lookout tower that was constructed in 1934 and is one of 3 remaining examples of th...Read more -
Pollock Pines, United States
Hiking the Jenkinson Lake Loop Trail at Sly Park
4.0The Jenkinson Lake Loop Trail runs along Jenkinson Lake, making for an easy, shaded, and well-marked hike that the entire family can enjoy. The full loop is over eight miles, but can be easily modified into a shorter trip, as well.Along the way, you will see a variety of activities along the lake...Read more -
Sierra City, California
Relax at Sand Pond
5.0Sand Pond is a great place to relax after a day of hiking or paddling. It's located between Sardine Lake Campground and Lower Sardine Lake and is an easy 10 min walk from the campground. Sand Pond has beautiful views of the mountains and is a great place to watch the sunset. There are small fish ...Read more -
Sierra City, California
Paddle Lower Sardine Lake
5.0Lower Sardine Lake is a short drive from Sardine Lakes Campground. It has crystal clear water and is a very smooth place to paddle. This is also a popular fishing and kayaking spot. There are many fallen trees in the lake and a couple rocks that come up almost to the surface. The water in genera...Read more -
Sierra City, California
Sardine Lakes
1.32 mi / 253 ft gainSardine Lakes is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Sierra City, California.Read more -
Sierra City, California
Sierra Buttes and Sardine Lakes
4.86.19 mi / 3333 ft gainThe Sierra Buttes are one of the most scenic mountain features in all of the Sierra Nevadas. Nestled below the buttes are Upper and Lower Sardine lakes which both offer amazing fishing. Sardine Lake Resort lies at the base of the mountains and offers boat rentals, dining and cabin rentals. Just m...Read more -
Calpine, California
Camp at Salmon Creek Campground
Salmon Creek Campground is a quiet campground in the Northern Sierra Buttes. Since it is right up the road from Sardine Lakes it seems to get overlooked a bit. We were able to reserve three campsites the same week of our trip. There were 11 to choose from! The campground is just passed the turn f...Read more -
Markleeville, California
Snowmobile at Hope Valley Sno-Park
Book a snowmobile trip through a local adventure center (we love Lake Tahoe Adventures) or bring your own gear. Don't forget to grab permits ahead of time if you come on your own (more info here.) Drive (from anywhere) to Highway 88 and the snow park entrance is on the south side of the highway. ...Read more -
Sierra City, California
Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail
5.09 mi / 1365 ft gainSierra Buttes Lookout Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Sierra City, California.Read more -
Colfax, California
Hike The Historical Stevens Trail
5.08 mi / 3376 ft gainBest known as one of the most popular hiking and biking trails to the North Fork American River, in part because of the easy access from Colfax. However, this is a remote trail, and hikers are advised to bring plenty of fluids as well as carry a whistle. The entire trail is primarily shaded, pa...Read more -
Nevada City, California
Hike the Diggins Loop Trail
5.02.7 miCheck in and pay for your parking or present California State Parks Pass at the museum building in North Bloomfield. After paying for parking there are several different options to get onto the Diggins Loop trail. Access to the Diggins Loop trail can be found by the Park Headcounters by jumping...Read more -
Markleeville, California
Backpack to Grouse Lake
4.711.43 mi / 2283 ft gainIt is a 6 mile hike to Grouse Lake. You begin at the trailhead which is right by Damsite Campground at Upper Blue Lake. Park in the dirt parking area and then cross the metal footbridge, and you will see the trailhead marker on your left. The trail takes you into the Mokelumne Wilderness. Follow...Read more
