Overview
The Emigrant Wilderness covers 112,000 acres just north of Yosemite's boundary, offering the central Sierra Nevada's combination of volcanic and granite high country without Yosemite's permit lottery or visitor concentrations. The Buck Lakes Loop is one of the more practical loop routes in the western Emigrant, connecting two alpine lakes on a 10-mile circuit that most hikers complete either as a long day trip or a relaxed overnight.
The route moves through terrain characteristic of the western Emigrant: open forests of lodgepole pine and mountain hemlock, broad granite slabs, and meadow zones that hold wildflowers through early August. The two Buck Lakes (Upper and Lower) sit in basins that reflect the area's mixed volcanic and granitic geology. The loop option is worth noting because the Emigrant Wilderness trail system is largely point-to-point, and the Buck Lakes circuit is one of the few that returns to its origin without significant cross-country travel.
Stanislaus National Forest manages the Emigrant Wilderness through the Summit Ranger District. Overnight camping requires a free self-issue permit available at the trailhead. Bear canisters are mandatory. For backcountry planning, review bear canister requirements, Leave No Trace principles, and how to get a national forest camping permit for the general process. Check current conditions before departing.
The Route
Miles 0 to 3: Bell Meadow and Wilderness Entry
From the Bell Meadow Trailhead, the loop begins by crossing an open meadow and entering the Emigrant Wilderness. The lower section is relatively gradual through mixed conifer forest. The meadow itself is worth pausing at in late June when wildflowers are at peak. The wilderness boundary is signed. Continue east toward Lower Buck Lake.
Miles 3 to 5: Lower Buck Lake
Lower Buck Lake sits in an open basin at roughly 8,600 feet. The lake is moderately sized with good camping benches on the north and east shores. Fishing is possible from the rocky shores. The surrounding terrain is open granite with scattered lodgepole pine. This is the midpoint for many day hikers and the overnight camping option for those staying two days.
Miles 5 to 7: Upper Buck Lake and High Point
The loop continues to Upper Buck Lake at roughly 8,900 feet, a smaller and more remote lake in a tighter granite basin. The terrain between the lakes is open and rocky, with good views of the surrounding Emigrant peaks. The route reaches its high point between the lakes. Upper Buck Lake sees fewer visitors and offers more solitude.
Miles 7 to 10: Loop Return
The return portion of the loop descends through a different drainage back to the Bell Meadow Trailhead, completing the circuit. Views on the return are largely to the west toward the Central Valley on clear days. The forest cover increases in the lower return section.
When to Visit
July through October. Snow covers the upper lakes area through mid-June or later in heavy snow years. Late July and August are the most reliable for clear trails and pleasant swimming conditions at the lakes. September offers excellent fall conditions. October can bring early snow.
What to Bring
- Bear canister (required for overnight camping).
- Many hikers carry 2 liters of water capacity; water available at both lakes but requires treatment.
- Layers for cool high-country evenings (40s even in August at 8,600 feet).
- Camp stove; campfire restrictions frequent in wilderness areas.
- California fishing license if fishing.
Practical Details
Free wilderness permit self-issued at trailhead for overnight stays as of 2026. Day hiking requires no permit. No parking fee. Vault toilets at the trailhead. Camp 200 feet from lake shores. Dogs allowed and must be under control.
Getting There
From Sonora, drive east on Highway 108 approximately 30 miles to the Pinecrest junction. Turn right toward Pinecrest Lake and continue to the Bell Meadow Trailhead on Dodge Ridge Road, approximately 4 miles from the highway junction. From the Bay Area, allow 3-3.5 hours.