01
Best overall pick
Long Lake Trail
Lakes Basin Recreation Area • Classic High-Country Lake Hike • Best Overall Pick
An essential Lakes Basin hike with granite scenery, clear water, and enough mileage to feel like an outing without being punishing.
From the Lakes Basin trailheads, the route to Long Lake quickly leaves the road behind and threads through lodgepole and granite slabs toward a chain of alpine lakes. Mild elevation gain and well-defined tread make it approachable for most active hikers while still delivering that high-Sierra feel. Go early or late in the day for calmer water, easier parking, and a good chance of having a shoreline nook to yourself.
02
Easiest scenic stroll
Frazier Falls Trail
Near Gold Lake Highway • Paved Waterfall Viewpoint Trail • Best For Families
A short, mostly paved walk to a dramatic waterfall overlook that works for mixed-ability groups and quick leg-stretches on a driving day.
The Frazier Falls Trail is a go-to when you want big payoff for very little effort: a gentle path leads through open forest to a sturdy overlook platform above the cascade. The route is wide, with minimal roots and rocks, so it’s friendly to kids, grandparents, and casual walkers. In early summer the falls are at their strongest; by late season the walk is quieter and more about canyon views and watching for raptors riding the thermals.
03
Best half-day climb
Smith Lake Trail
Lakes Basin Backcountry • Steeper Forest-And-Lake Climb • Scenic Workout
A short but stout climb that trades effort for a quiet lake basin and classic Sierra granite surroundings.
Smith Lake’s trail wastes no time gaining elevation, switchbacking through mixed forest and past rocky outcrops before easing off near the water. It’s a good choice when you want something more demanding than a stroll but still doable in a morning or afternoon. Pack a snack and layer up—the granite bowls around the lake catch wind, and it’s easy to linger longer than planned on the warm rocks by the shore.
04
Best summit route
Mount Elwell Loop
Above Graeagle • Challenging Summit Loop • Big-View Adventure
A demanding loop that rewards strong hikers with a true summit, airy ridgeline, and sweeping views over the Lakes Basin and beyond.
The Mount Elwell Loop strings together forested singletrack, open talus slopes, and ridgeline walking to reach one of the area’s defining peaks. Expect sustained climbing, some rocky footing, and occasionally faint tread, especially on the higher sections. On a clear day you can look down on the Lakes Basin and out toward the Sierra Buttes, making this a standout objective for experienced hikers who want a full-value day without technical climbing.
05
Closest to town
Graeagle Creek Trail
From Graeagle Townsite • Creekside Out-And-Back • In-Town Leg-Stretcher
A convenient creekside path that lets you step out of town and into the trees in just a few minutes.
Starting near the heart of Graeagle, this mellow trail follows the creek upstream, mixing shaded stretches with small clearings and side paths down to the water. It’s ideal for an evening walk, a low-key recovery day, or a quick outing with kids and dogs. The gentle grade and easy access mean you can turn around whenever you like, making it a flexible option around meals, errands, or a lakeside afternoon.