01
Best overall pick
Bear Lakes Loop
Lakes Basin Recreation Area Off Gold Lake Highway • Alpine Lakes Loop Through Mixed Forest And Granite • Local Favorite For A Classic Lakes Basin Sampler
A moderately challenging loop that strings together multiple small lakes, big granite views, and shady forest in one tidy package.
If you only have time for one hike near Blairsden, Bear Lakes Loop captures what people love about the Lakes Basin in just a few miles. The trail rolls past clear blue ponds, rocky outcrops, and open views without ever feeling monotonous. Expect some short, punchy climbs and a few rocky sections, but nothing most reasonably fit hikers can’t handle.
02
Classic alpine lake climb
Jamison Creek Trail to Jamison Lake
Plumas-Eureka State Park Near Graeagle • Creekside Forest Trail To A High-Country Lake Basin • Best For Hikers Who Like A Steady Climb And A Clear Destination
A sustained but rewarding climb along Jamison Creek to a cold, blue alpine lake ringed by crags and old mining history.
The Jamison Lake trail feels like a true mountain hike without requiring mountaineering legs. You’ll follow the creek through dense forest, pass old mining relics, and eventually break into a rocky basin anchored by the lake itself. It’s a great choice for a cool-morning start, with plenty of spots near the water to linger over a snack before heading back down.
03
Laid-back lakeshore ramble
Long Lake Trail
Lakes Basin Near Gray Eagle Lodge Trailhead • Short Out-And-Back To A Scenic Lakeshore • Best For Relaxed Half-Day Outings And Mixed-Ability Groups
A relatively short hike with a few rocky steps that delivers you straight to a classic Sierra lake framed by granite and pines.
Long Lake is ideal when you want big scenery without an all-day effort. The approach is straightforward, with enough uneven terrain to feel like a real hike but not so much that less-experienced hikers will be overwhelmed. Bring a towel if you’re brave enough for a cold dip, or just wander the shoreline and enjoy the reflections off the surrounding peaks.
04
Big-view summit day
Mount Elwell Trail
High Above The Lakes Basin, Accessed Near Smith Lake Trailhead • Steep Summit Hike With Expansive Ridgeline Views • Top Pick For Strong Hikers Chasing Panoramas
A demanding climb to a rocky summit where the Lakes Basin spreads out below and distant Sierra ridges stack to the horizon.
Mount Elwell is the hike locals mention when you ask where to go for the best views in the area. The trail is steeper and more sustained than most Lakes Basin walks, with rocky switchbacks that reward patient pacing. On clear days you’ll see lakes scattered in every direction from the top, making the effort feel more than worthwhile.
05
Easiest family-friendly walk
Frazier Falls Trail
Off Gold Lake Highway Above The Feather River Canyon • Short, Mostly Paved Path To A Waterfall Overlook • Best For Families, Casual Walkers, And Low-Altitude Days
A quick, gently graded walk to a sturdy viewpoint with a head-on look at a tall, tiered waterfall dropping into a rocky gorge.
Frazier Falls is the go-to outing when you want drama without mileage. The trail is short, mostly smooth, and forgiving enough for strollers and unsteady legs, yet the viewpoint feels surprisingly wild. It pairs nicely with a more relaxed day of exploring pullouts along Gold Lake Highway or picnicking back down near Blairsden.