01
Best easy waterfall walk
Frazier Falls Trail
Near Gold Lake Highway Overlook • Paved Waterfall Viewpoint Trail • Best For Families And Casual Walkers
A short, mostly level walk leads to a thunderous waterfall framed by sheer granite walls.
This paved path rolls gently across open granite and forest to a fenced overlook with a head-on view of Frazier Falls dropping into its gorge.[2] It is an easy outing that still delivers big-mountain scenery, ideal for multi-generational groups, strollers, or a leg-stretcher on the way to or from the higher Lakes Basin trails.
02
Classic alpine loop
Bear Lakes and Round Lake Loop
North Lakes Basin Backcountry • Rugged Alpine Lakes Loop • Signature All-Day Adventure
A varied circuit past multiple clear lakes, granite slabs, and airy viewpoints that shows off the best of the Lakes Basin.
Starting from the Lakes Basin area, this loop links Round Lake with the Bear Lakes cluster and nearby tarns for a day that feels deep in the backcountry without an epic approach.[4][5] Expect rolling ups and downs, stretches of open granite, and plenty of chances to detour to quiet coves if you want a longer day or a secluded lunch spot.
03
Best lakeside ramble
Long Lake Loop Trail
South Lakes Basin Shoreline • Moderate Lakeshore Out-And-Back • Top Pick For A Half-Day Outing
An approachable trail that hugs alpine water and low granite knobs, with frequent chances to dip your feet or jump in.
Long Lake is a go-to for hikers who want classic high-country scenery without committing to a big climb.[3] The path undulates along the shoreline and nearby ridges, mixing shaded stretches of forest with open rock benches that make natural picnic spots, and it is easy to tailor the distance by turning around when you have had your fill of views.[4]
04
Shadiest summer escape
Gray Eagle Creek Trail
Gray Eagle Lodge Corridor • Shaded Creek And Waterfall Hike • Quiet Alternative To Busier Lakes
A mellow forested path that traces a cold creek to cascades and small falls tucked into a granite canyon.
Just up the road from Clio and Graeagle, the Gray Eagle Creek Trail offers a cooler, more enclosed feel than the open granite typical of the higher basin.[3] You follow the sound of water through mixed conifers, with side views of pools and cascades, making it a good choice on hot afternoons or for hikers who prefer soft, shaded tread over exposed rock.[5]
05
Short but stout climb
Smith Lake Trail
Plumas-Eureka State Park High Country • Steep Forest Climb To A Cliff-Ringed Lake • Best Short Challenge For Strong Hikers
A punchy ascent rewards you with a compact alpine lake tucked tight against dramatic rock walls.
The Smith Lake Trail wastes little time gaining elevation, switchbacking up through forest and granite to a small basin that feels surprisingly tucked-away for being so close to the road.[3] Strong hikers will appreciate the workout-to-view ratio, and the rocky shorelines around the lake offer quiet perches to watch afternoon light slide across the surrounding peaks.[5]