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Gold Lake Loop

Plumas National Forest, California · 3 min read

Distance
6.5 mi
Elevation Gain
900 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
July through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Developed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Six glacial lakes accessible on the loop, including Gold, Silver, and Long lakes
  • Sierra Buttes (8,591 ft) visible from multiple ridge points on the route
  • Glacially polished granite slabs and rounded basins above 6,500 feet
  • Excellent wildflower display in late July and early August
  • One of the best high-country lake loop hikes in the northern Sierra

Overview

The Gold Lake Loop is the signature day hike in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area of Plumas National Forest, circling through a glacially carved high country with views of the Sierra Buttes and access to multiple pristine lakes. The 6.5-mile circuit gains about 900 feet over rolling terrain, alternating between lakeshores, open granite benches, and forested sections. For northern Sierra scenery without the crowds of Tahoe, the Gold Lake Basin consistently delivers.

No permit required. The trail is well-marked.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.0: Gold Lake to Silver Lake. From the trailhead near Gold Lake Lodge, the loop heads north along the eastern shore of Gold Lake, the largest lake in the basin. The Sierra Buttes become visible to the southeast within the first mile. The trail climbs moderately to Silver Lake at 6,500 feet, a smaller lake with rocky shores and good views back down toward Gold Lake.

Miles 2.0 to 4.0: Upper basin traverse. The route climbs to the upper basin through an area of glacially polished granite slabs. Round Lake and Bear Lake are visible below on the western slope. The highest point of the loop is in this section at about 7,200 feet, where views extend across the full basin and toward Mount Elwell to the west.

Miles 4.0 to 6.5: Long Lake and return. The trail descends to Long Lake, the most elongated lake in the basin, running over a mile in length. The final stretch follows Long Lake's eastern shore back toward the trailhead and the Gold Lake access road.

When to Hike

Mid-July through August is the primary window after snowmelt clears the upper basin. Wildflowers in the meadows around Long Lake peak in late July.

September through mid-October is excellent for cooler temperatures, minimal crowds, and the beginning of aspen color in the lower drainages.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 2 liters of water for this loop; lake water is available but requires treatment. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible in July and August; start early and plan to be off high terrain by early afternoon. Sun protection is important at elevation. Trekking poles help on the granite slab sections.

Trailhead Access

Gold Lake Highway (County Road 519) north of Graeagle, off State Route 89. The Lodge is about 7 miles from the SR-89 junction. Cell service is absent at the trailhead.

Nearby

The Mount Elwell Trail is the more demanding climb in the same area, adding a summit perspective above the basin. The Haskell Peak Trail provides volcanic summit views nearby. Follow Leave No Trace principles around the fragile high-country lakes, and check conditions before you go for fire restrictions and road openings.

Trailhead Parking

Gold Lake Trailhead at Gold Lake Lodge, off Gold Lake Highway (County Road 519), north of Graeagle. Paved parking. No fee. Lodge offers boat rentals seasonally.

← Back to Plumas National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many lakes can I see on the Gold Lake Loop?
Depending on the exact route, the Gold Lake Loop passes or has views of 6 to 10 named lakes: Gold Lake (the largest), Silver Lake, Long Lake, Round Lake, Bear Lake, and smaller tarns in the upper basin. All are set in glacially carved granite basins above 6,000 feet. The loop makes it possible to visit most of them in a single day without backtracking.
Is the Gold Lake Loop good for fishing?
Yes. Multiple lakes on the loop are stocked with rainbow trout and hold wild populations as well. Gold Lake and Silver Lake receive the most fishing pressure. Bear Lake and the smaller upper tarns are less fished and can be productive. A California fishing license is required (as of 2026). Check CDFW regulations for any catch-and-release restrictions on specific lakes.
When does the Gold Lake Highway open each year?
The Gold Lake Highway (County Road 519) typically opens in late May or early June, depending on snowpack. High snowpack years can delay opening until mid-June. The USFS and Plumas County post road opening information on their websites. Trail conditions at the higher elevations remain snowy into early July in most years.