01
Best overall pick
Leavitt Meadows to West Walker Falls
Leavitt Meadows Trailhead Off Highway 108 • Riverside Alpine Hike With Meadows And A Waterfall • Scenic All-Rounder
A classic Eastern Sierra walk following the West Walker River through open meadows to a tucked-away waterfall[4].
Leavitt Meadows to West Walker Falls is one of the most popular day hikes close to Coleville, thanks to its mix of easy grades, big mountain views, and a satisfying destination[4]. From the pullout on Highway 108, the trail rolls gently along the river past beaver ponds and wide meadows before narrowing into a rocky canyon where you’ll hear the falls before you see them[4]. It is a great first stop if you want a true feel for the Walker River canyon without committing to an all-day sufferfest.
02
Best for history and solitude
Blue Canyon Lake Historic Route
High Country Above Leavitt Meadows • Longer Backcountry-Style Day Hike • Best For Strong Hikers
A quieter, more committing route that climbs past old cabin sites to a secluded alpine lake above the West Walker drainage[1][4].
The Blue Canyon Lake Historic Route peels away from the Leavitt Meadows area and heads deeper into the high country, weaving past remnants of old cabins and mining-era use on its way to a turquoise lake[1][4]. The path feels wilder and less manicured than the main meadow trail, with more elevation gain, rockier tread, and a greater sense of being out there[1][4]. It is a smart choice for hikers who want a full-day outing and don’t mind a bit of route-finding flavor far from the highway.
03
Best short high-country escape
Upper Kinney Lake via the Pacific Crest Trail
Near Ebbetts Pass On Highway 4 • High-Elevation Pacific Crest Trail Segment • Quick Alpine Fix
A relatively short Pacific Crest Trail hop to a granite-framed alpine lake, ideal when you want big scenery without a huge mileage day[2].
Starting near Ebbetts Pass, this route follows the Pacific Crest Trail across open granite and pockets of forest before dropping to the shore of Upper Kinney Lake[2]. The hike packs in airy views, classic Sierra boulders, and cool water in just a few miles, making it a great high-country add-on to a Coleville trip when the passes are open[2]. It is especially nice in late summer and early fall, when the snow is gone but the crowds are thinner than on better-known Sierra passes.
04
Best off-the-beaten-path lake
Tamarack Lake, Carson-Iceberg Wilderness
Carson-Iceberg Wilderness West Of Coleville • Remote Alpine Lake Hike • Quiet Backcountry Feel
A more remote trek into the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness that rewards the effort with a peaceful granite-rimmed lake and far fewer people[1].
Tamarack Lake sits in the heart of the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness, reached by a network of trails that climb away from the highway and quickly leave traffic noise behind[1]. The approach threads through mixed forest and open granite benches, with wide views into the Stanislaus backcountry before dropping into the lake basin[1]. It is a good fit for strong day hikers or a mellow overnight, especially if you want a quieter alternative to the more famous lakes along Sonora and Tioga passes.
05
Best lakes-and-peaks sampler
Virginia Lakes Loop
Virginia Lakes Basin South Of Coleville • Alpine Lake Loop With Optional Side Trips • Most Photogenic
A compact loop that strings together multiple sapphire lakes beneath rugged peaks, with plenty of spots to linger and explore[5].
The Virginia Lakes basin, a Mono County favorite, is an easy drive south from Coleville and feels like a ready-made postcard the moment you step out of the car[5]. A well-used trail loops around several lakes, with side paths leading to higher tarns and viewpoints that show off the volcanic ridges and rocky summits ringing the basin[5]. It is hard to beat for sheer scenery-to-effort ratio, making it a reliable pick when you are showing the area to visiting friends or packing a full day of fishing, photography, and wandering into one hike.