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Grouse Lake Trail

Eldorado National Forest, California · 3 min read

Distance
5.6 mi
Elevation Gain
1,500 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Flush Restroom
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • High-elevation granite lake on the Desolation Wilderness boundary
  • Classic Sierra Nevada alpine scenery: white granite, blue water, scattered pines
  • Good swimming and fishing in the lake
  • Access to the broader Desolation Wilderness trail network from the lake
  • Wildflowers in the meadows below the lake through mid-July

Overview

Grouse Lake sits at the edge of the Desolation Wilderness in the Eldorado National Forest, accessible from the Wrights Lake Trailhead in California's Crystal Basin area. The 5.6-mile round trip climbs through lodgepole pine and granite terrain to a classic Sierra Nevada alpine lake with white granite shoreline and views of the surrounding peaks. The Wrights Lake area is the Eldorado's most popular high-elevation recreation hub, sitting at nearly 7,000 feet and providing immediate access to both forest and wilderness trails.

The Desolation Wilderness, one of the most visited wilderness areas in the country, begins immediately beyond the lake. Day hikers can reach the lake without permits; overnight wilderness visitors need to check current permit requirements.

The Route

Wrights Lake Trailhead to Lower Trail (0 to 1.0 miles)

The trail begins at the Wrights Lake parking area and heads east toward the wilderness boundary. The first mile crosses meadow and lodgepole forest with good wildflower displays through mid-July. The grade is gentle at the start.

Main Climb (1.0 to 2.5 miles)

The trail steepens as it approaches the lake basin, climbing through open granite slabs and scattered trees. Views of Wrights Lake and the surrounding Crystal Basin peaks appear from the upper sections. The granite becomes the dominant surface in this section.

Grouse Lake (2.8 miles)

The lake sits in a granite bowl with a rocky, clear shoreline. The surrounding peaks of the Desolation Wilderness are visible from the lake and the trail continues into the wilderness for those with permits. Swimming is popular in the relatively shallow lake, which warms somewhat in August. Return via the same route.

When to Hike

July through October is the accessible season. Snow can persist on the upper approach into late June in heavy years. The wildflowers in the lower meadows peak in early to mid-July. October brings excellent fall conditions with minimal crowds.

Summer weekends see significant traffic from the Wrights Lake campground and Sacramento visitors. Weekday mornings offer the best combination of good weather and manageable crowds.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 2 liters of water for this shorter route, with the lake providing a filtered source at the destination. Sun protection is important on the open granite sections. Swimwear adds value in the summer. Carry a light layer for the lake basin, which sits in shade in the afternoon.

Trailhead Access

Wrights Lake Trailhead is on Wrights Lake Road, accessed from US-50 in the Crystal Basin area. The road is paved. No fee or permit required for day hiking (as of 2026). Flush restrooms at the trailhead. Parking fills on summer weekends, so arrive early. Space for 30 to 40 vehicles.

Dogs are permitted.

Nearby

Grouse Lake is one of several lake destinations accessible from the Wrights Lake area. Rubicon Trail is accessible from Loon Lake to the north. Wentworth Springs Trail is another Crystal Basin option for hikers staying in the area. Check current Desolation Wilderness permit requirements and trail conditions with the USFS guide. Follow Leave No Trace principles at the heavily used lakeside area.

Trailhead Parking

Paved lot at the Wrights Lake Trailhead off Wrights Lake Road in the Crystal Basin area. Space for 30 to 40 vehicles. Fills on summer weekends.

← Back to Eldorado National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Grouse Lake Trail take?
The 5.6-mile round trip takes most hikers 2.5 to 4 hours. The 1,500-foot elevation gain is concentrated in the upper approach to the lake, making the final mile the most demanding section.
Is Grouse Lake Trail dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are permitted on the Grouse Lake Trail in the national forest section. Dogs entering the Desolation Wilderness beyond the lake must be under voice control. Keep dogs out of the water at the lake to protect the habitat.
Do you need a Desolation Wilderness permit for Grouse Lake?
Grouse Lake itself sits on the Desolation Wilderness boundary. Day hiking to the lake typically does not require a permit. Entering the wilderness proper (beyond the lake) for overnight camping requires a Desolation Wilderness permit, which is quota-managed from June through Labor Day (as of 2026).