Loch Leven Lakes, CA

• 4-star hike
• 7 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 1,300 ft | Peak 6,900 ft
• Cisco Grove, CA | Lake Tahoe
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The image shows a serene lake surrounded by a forest of pine trees. The water is calm, reflecting the trees and the clear blue sky above. The foreground features two large pine trees, one on the left and one on the right, framing the view of the lake. The background consists of rocky terrain with more pine trees scattered across it. The sky is mostly clear with a few wispy clouds.

The image shows a serene lake surrounded by a forest of pine trees. The water is calm, reflecting the trees and the clear blue sky above. The foreground features two large pine trees, one on the left and one on the right, framing the view of the lake. The background consists of rocky terrain with more pine trees scattered across it. The sky is mostly clear with a few wispy clouds.

Located directly off Interstate 80, reaching the Loch Leven Lakes trailhead is a breeze and in no time at all you'll be ascending the Sierra Nevada mountains in search of scenic high alpine lakes. No need to worry about the proximity of the freeway though, as the trail leads you quickly away.

The trail climbs steadily upward passing through patches of pine forest, negotiating large erratic boulders and scrabbling across exposed granite. Leading to a small footbridge your route continues its climb through dense evergreens and across railroad tracks before finally reaching the crest of your hike two and a half miles from and 1,250 feet higher than the trailhead. From here, thankfully, it's all downhill to the Lakes.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Loch Leven Lakes Trail 7.3 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1,300 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

Each of the lakes is individually worth the trip on its own, so if you choose the closest Lower Lake as your destination, you'll find it a very rewarding 6 mile out-and-back hike. However, should you choose to press on and explore Middle and High Loch Leven Lakes, the rest of the trail is mostly level.

Situated high in the Sierra Nevadas, this trail is usually best tackled between June and November. Because of the short season, you'll find this trail particularly popular with fellow hikers, but still well worth the effort. Winter and spring season hiking is also possible on this route, but due to winter conditions can often be challenging even to experienced hikers and snowshoers.

The image shows a serene landscape featuring a clear, still body of water that perfectly reflects the surrounding scenery. The reflection includes a rocky shoreline with various trees, some of which are tall and evergreen, while others appear to be dead or leafless. The sky above is blue with wispy clouds, and this is mirrored in the water below, creating a symmetrical and visually striking scene. The image is interesting due to the almost perfect mirror-like quality of the water, which creates a sense of tranquility and natural beauty.

The image shows a close-up of a tree with a wooden sign attached to it. The sign reads 'LOCH LEVEN TRAIL'. The background features a clear blue sky with some clouds and additional trees, indicating a forested area.

Tangents:
• Official: Forest Service
• Public Map at AllTrails: Loch Leven Lakes Trail
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

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