01
Best overall pick
Jenkinson Lake at Sly Park Recreation Area
Sly Park Recreation Area Near Pollock Pines • Shaded Lakeside Loop Trail • Best All-Around Day Hike
A piney lake loop with flexible distance, swimming coves, and year-round appeal just east of Camino.
Most hikers from Camino end up at Jenkinson Lake sooner or later, and for good reason: the main shoreline trail gives you classic Sierra scenery without committing to a big mountain push. You can stroll a short out-and-back from the dam or do the full loop and still be back in Camino in time for an Apple Hill stop. Go early on summer weekends for easier parking and calmer water views.
02
Closest to town
El Dorado Trail – Camino to Placerville Segment
Between Camino And Placerville Along Highway 50 • Multi-Use Rail-Trail Through Oak And Pine Foothills • Most Accessible Family Walk
A gentle converted rail corridor that lets you stretch your legs without leaving the foothills.
This section of the El Dorado Trail is the easiest way to get a real walk in without heading deep into the mountains. The grade is mild, the surface is friendly to strollers and casual walkers, and you still get foothill views, seasonal wildflowers, and a taste of local history. It is a solid choice for mixed-ability groups or a quick evening outing from Camino.
03
Most dramatic scenery
Horsetail Falls Trail
Twin Bridges Trailhead Off Highway 50 • Granite Waterfall And Canyon Hike • Best Waterfall Scramble
A rugged, view-packed route that climbs along Pyramid Creek to thundering cascades and open granite slabs.
From Camino, a short drive up Highway 50 drops you at the trailhead for one of the area’s most photogenic waterfall hikes. The path quickly leaves the trees for big granite vistas, swirling pools, and the roar of Horsetail Falls climbing the canyon wall. Expect a rocky, sometimes confusing route and go prepared for real mountain conditions, especially during snowmelt.
04
Best high-country classic
Echo Lakes Trail to Desolation Wilderness
Echo Lakes, West Of South Lake Tahoe • High-Elevation Lake And Ridge Trail • Best For Scenic Summer Miles
A Pacific Crest Trail stretch that strings together bright alpine lakes, granite knobs, and wide-open Sierra views.
Once the snow clears, locals head up to Echo Lakes for an easy entry into Desolation Wilderness without a brutal climb. You can follow the shoreline past rustic cabins or push on toward Lake Aloha for a full-day adventure among granite islands and tarns. Afternoon thunderstorms and exposed sections are common, so start early and pack layers even on warm Camino mornings.
05
Best backcountry feel
Wrights Lake to Twin Lakes Trail
Wrights Lake Area In Desolation Wilderness • Alpine Meadow And Lake Wilderness Route • Best For Experienced Hikers
A rewarding climb from a quiet forested lake into classic Desolation Wilderness granite and sparkling high basins.
Wrights Lake is a bit farther from Camino, but the drive buys you a true backcountry experience without needing an overnight pack. The trail rises through meadows and forest before breaking out into a landscape of polished granite, cliffs, and clear blue lakes that feel far removed from Highway 50. The elevation, rocky footing, and mosquitoes in early season make this a better pick for prepared hikers comfortable with longer mountain days.