Two people per square mile! in a time of solitude and social distancing is there a better visitor slogan than what Alpine ca, can claim with its expansive open land and very few visitors? Refereed to as the California Alps, Alpine County for those who know is a spectacular recreation and mountain lifestyle region highlighted by history, great fishing, wilderness areas, high alpine lakes, world class skiing and mountain biking plus the home of the internationally known Death ride.
With state, local and regional restrictions in place for much of the spring season, Alpine county was challenged through the covid-19 pandemic, a small community of residence with the nearest health services 20 minutes away in Gardnerville NV. The pandemic forced many tough decisions in the county, including closing down several popular winter recreation sites and the loss of revenue gained from the skiers who flock to Kirkwood ski resort off hwy 88.
However with the opening of the scenic by ways last week and with Memorial day weekend arriving with the opening of fishing season the county is excited to welcome visitors again to it wide open spaces. Obviously with precautions for the Covid pandemic and proper social distancing procedures.
Camping, fishing, exploring are all on the agenda again in Alpine county. they Launched a community Scavenger hunt “Get Hooked On Alpine County. In a way to help families and visitors discover more of the local history and the mass recreational opportunities that await them in Alpine county.
Wilderness
Alpine County is home to two Prominent Wilderness Regions: The Carson Iceberg Wilderness to the South of HWY 4 (Ebbett’s Pass Scenic By way), and Mokelumne Wilderness which expands the central region of the county between Highway 88 and Highway 4. In the Carson Iceberg and Mokelumne Wilderness areas, nature prevails and opportunities for solitude and serenity abound.
Carson-Iceberg Wilderness:
From the majestic heights of Sonora Peak and the Dardanelles to the clear cool waters of the Carson River, the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness offers 160,000 acres of ruggedly beautiful, unspoiled terrain to delight your senses. With elevations ranging between 6,500 feet and 11,462 feet, this wilderness offers a landscape of striking contrasts from windswept Alpine peaks and sparkling
glacial lakes to densely forested stands and sunny open mountain meadows. Hiking, backpacking, fishing, trail running and horse back riding are favorite wilderness activities.
This remote area straddles the crest of the Sierra Nevada Mountains between Ebbetts Pass and Sonora Pass, and may be accessed through the following trailheads: Wolf Creek, East Carson River Trail/High Trail, Noble Creek, Ebbetts Pass, Hermit Valley, Heiser Lake, Stanislaus Meadow, Silver Valley, Lake Alpine, (Hwy 4) Corral Valley Trail, Snodgrass Trail, (Hwy 395) and Sonora Pass (Hwy 108)**
Mokelumne Wilderness:
The Mokelumne Wilderness offers stunning mountain scenery and outstanding year-round recreational opportunities. Winter envelops the
Mokelumne in white shimmering tranquility. Snow covered forests and meadows beckon to winter sports enthusiasts. During spring and early
summer, Raymond and Reynolds Peaks gaze down from their lofty stations upon wildflowers dancing in broad open meadows as day-hikers and
backpackers stroll by. During the fall, golden Aspens stand in sharp relief against an azure blue sky inviting all to come and share in their splendor.
The Mokelumne is located south of Highway 88 and north of Highway 4. Access into the Mokelumne Wilderness may be gained through one of
the following trailheads: Wet Meadows (which also serves the Pacific Crest Trail), Blue Lakes, Ebbetts Pass and Carson Pass. Required wilderness
permits and information about the Mokelumne and Carson-Iceberg Wilderness may be obtained at the following locations or visit the National
Forest Service website at www.fs.fed.us**
Camping Location Sites
- Wolf Creek Elev. 6400 All Year
- Carson River Resort 9 Sites Elev. 5300 May-Oct
- Markleeville Creek 10 Sites Elev. 5500 May-Sep
- Grover Hot Springs 76 Sites Elev. 5900 All Year
- Turtle Rock Park 28 Sites Elev. 6100 May-Oct
- Indian Creek Rec. Area 29 Sites Elev. 5600 Apr-Oct
- Crystal Springs 22 Sites Elev. 6000 Apr-Oct
- Snowshoe Springs 13 Sites Elev. 6600 CLOSED
- Kit Carson 12 Sites Elev. 6900 May-Sep
- Sorensen’s 25 Sites Elev. 7000 Jun-Oct
- Hope Valley 20 Sites Elev. 7300 Jun-Sep
- Blue Lake 73 Sites Elev. 8100 Jun-Oct
- Woods Lake 25 Sites Elev. 8200 Jul-Oct
- Caples Lake 34 Sites Elev. 7800 Jun-Oct
- Kirkwood 12 Sites Elev. 7600 Jun-Oct
- Silvertip 23 Sites Elev. 7500 Jun-Oct
- Lake Alpine 27 Sites Elev. 7400 Jun-Oct
- Pine Marten 33 Sites Elev. 7400 Jun-Oct
- Silver Valley 25 Sites Elev. 7400 Jun-Oct
- Mosquito Lakes 9 Sites Elev. 8000 Jun-Oct
- Pacific Valley 9 Sites Elev. 7600 Jun-Oct
- Hermit Valley 3 Sites Elev. 7500 Jun-Oct
- Bloomfield 20 Sites Elev. 8000 Jun-Oct
- Highland Lakes 35 Sites Elev. 8600 Jun-Oct
- Silver Creek 22 Sites Elev. 6800 May-Sep
Disclaimer: All campground opening and closing dates are dependent upon road and weather conditions. For additional USFS and BLM information,
visit www.recreation.gov and www.reserveamerica.com. For campfire permits, visit www.preventwildfireca.org/campfire-permit.
Fishing
Top Fishing Locations in Alpine County
From alpine lakes to meandering rivers, Alpine County offers a diverse array of fishing opportunities for anglers of all experience levels. Here’s a roundup of the top fishing spots—some well-known, others hidden gems—with access tips and regulation notes where applicable.
A. Heenan Lake (Hwy 89 – Monitor Pass)
Just half a mile off Highway 89 near Monitor Pass, Heenan Lake is a prized catch-and-release fishery, known for its Lahontan Cutthroat Trout.
- Season/Regulations: Open Friday–Sunday only, from the Friday before Labor Day through the last Sunday in October.
- Rules: Artificial lures with barbless hooks only. Zero limit.
- Best For: Trophy trout, scenic solitude, and fall fishing.
B. Carson River – East Fork (Hangman’s Bridge to Wolf Creek)
This classic stretch of the East Fork flows through picturesque canyons with easy access along Highway 89.
- Access: Pullouts near Hangman’s Bridge and upstream toward Wolf Creek Road.
- Best For: Rainbow and brown trout, fly or spin fishing in summer and early fall.
C. Carson River – East Fork (Hangman’s Bridge to NV State Line)
This 10-mile stretch remains open year-round with strict conservation rules.
- Regulations: Zero limit, barbless hooks only, artificial lures.
- Access: Roadside along Highway 89 and Markleeville.
- Best For: Winter and early spring catch-and-release, wild trout.
D. Markleeville Creek (Downtown Markleeville)
Running right through town near the Library Bridge, this creek is ideal for kids and beginners.
- Access: Walkable from town center. Please respect private property signs.
- Best For: Family-friendly fishing, stocked trout in early season.
E. Carson River – West Fork (Pickett’s Junction)
This mellow stretch at the confluence of Highways 88 and 89 offers ADA-accessible fishing platforms.
- Access: Handicap-accessible area provided by Alpine County Chamber of Commerce.
- Best For: Relaxed fishing, seniors and mobility-limited anglers.
F. Blue Lakes (Blue Lakes Road off Hwy 88)
A high-elevation favorite, Blue Lakes offers a scenic fishing escape with both paved and dirt road access.
- Access: 12 miles south of Highway 88 via Blue Lakes Road (seasonal).
- Best For: Stocked trout, car camping, and alpine fishing.
G. Red Lake (Highway 88 – East of Carson Pass)
A roadside gem with easy shoreline access and stunning views of Red Lake Peak.
- Best For: Ice fishing in winter, trout and occasional brookies in summer.
H. Woods Lake (South of Highway 88, West of Carson Pass)
Nestled below the Round Top wilderness, Woods Lake is a peaceful spot surrounded by forest and granite.
- Access: Woods Lake Road (seasonal, campground nearby).
- Best For: Short hike-in fishing, calm waters, scenic picnicking.
I. Caples Lake (West of Carson Pass, Hwy 88)
One of Alpine County’s most popular lakes for anglers and boaters alike.
- Access: Boat launch, roadside pullouts, and Caples Lake Resort.
- Best For: Mackinaw, rainbows, browns—shoreline or deepwater trolling.
J. Lake Alpine (Highway 4 – Ebbetts Pass Corridor)
A summer favorite with clear waters and family amenities.
- Access: Day-use areas, trails, and boat launch near Bear Valley.
- Best For: Rainbow and brook trout, family fishing weekends.
K. Mosquito Lake (Highway 4 – Tiny Roadside Lake)
Small but surprisingly rewarding, this lake offers quick access and beautiful alpine scenery.
- Best For: Easy casting, stocked trout, and a quick roadside stop.
L. Mokelumne River (Highway 4 – Hermit Valley Area)
A beautiful backcountry river section offering solitude and wade-fishing opportunities.
- Access: Hermit Valley pullouts and dispersed camping nearby.
- Best For: Fly fishing, native trout, and quiet mornings.
M. Kinney Reservoir & Kinney Lakes (Highway 4 – Near Ebbetts Pass)
Start at Kinney Reservoir, then hike to the upper Kinney Lakes for more secluded waters.
- Access: Trailhead just off Highway 4 near Ebbetts Pass summit.
- Best For: Day hiking and backcountry trout fishing.
N. Silver Creek (Highway 4 – Carson-Iceberg Wilderness)
A rugged mountain stream known for its challenge and beauty.
- Access: Highway 4 pullouts and trail access into the wilderness.
- Best For: Experienced anglers targeting wild trout in remote terrain.
O. Wolf Creek (Wolf Creek Meadows Area)
A quiet and scenic stream with high-quality trout habitat.
- Access: Via Wolf Creek Road—seasonally passable dirt route.
- Best For: Brook and rainbow trout, peaceful wilderness fishing.
Popular Hiking Trails in Alpine County
Discover the unmatched beauty of Alpine County through its scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re seeking high alpine lakes, wildflower-covered meadows, or quiet forested paths, these hikes offer something for every adventurer.
Wolf Creek Trail
Located near the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness, the Wolf Creek Trail is a hidden gem offering solitude and beauty. This moderately challenging trail follows the creek through lush meadows, dense pine forests, and granite outcrops. It’s ideal for early summer wildflowers or a fall foliage stroll. Trail access can vary depending on snowpack and road conditions.
Wolf Creek High Route
An adventurous alternative to the main trail, the Wolf Creek High Route takes you above the creek basin for sweeping alpine views. This is an off-trail or lightly marked route best suited for experienced hikers seeking solitude, panoramic ridgelines, and backcountry exploration in one of the Sierra’s less-traveled areas.
Pacific Crest Trail to Upper Kinney Lake
From Ebbetts Pass, follow a scenic stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) north toward Kinney Lakes. The journey to Upper Kinney Lake is a rewarding moderate hike, about 2.5 miles one way, through subalpine forest and granite terrain. The lake itself offers reflective views of surrounding peaks and is a peaceful spot for lunch or fishing.
Grover Hot Springs Waterfall Trail
Located within Grover Hot Springs State Park, this short and easy trail is perfect for families. The 0.4-mile path leads to a small but beautiful waterfall nestled in a pine forest. Pair this hike with a soak in the hot springs or a picnic in the adjacent meadow.
Emigrant Lake from Caples Lake
This high-elevation trek begins at Caples Lake and follows the Emigrant Trail to Emigrant Lake—an 8.5-mile round trip featuring meadows, stream crossings, and dramatic granite backdrops. The lake is surrounded by rugged peaks and makes for an excellent day hike or overnight backpacking destination.
Granite Lake from Upper Blue Lake
Start at Upper Blue Lake and ascend toward Granite Lake on a moderate 4-mile out-and-back trail. The route meanders through forested sections and open granite terrain, offering picturesque views and alpine solitude. This lesser-known lake is ideal for those seeking quiet beauty just off the beaten path.
Lake Margaret Trail
A local favorite, the Lake Margaret Trail is a 5-mile round trip hike that gently climbs through granite and pine to a beautiful alpine lake. The trail features a few stream crossings and is especially stunning in late spring and early summer. It’s a perfect half-day adventure for families and casual hikers.
Thornburg Canyon Trail
Often overlooked, the Thornburg Canyon Trail offers a rugged and less-traveled experience. Starting from Highway 4, this trail leads you through a mix of forest, rock outcroppings, and wildflower meadows. It’s a great choice for solitude and a unique perspective on the Carson Pass region.
Charity Valley Trail
Considered one of the most scenic trails in Alpine County, Charity Valley Trail offers stunning views of meadows, creeks, and fall colors. Starting near Blue Lakes Road, the trail descends into lush valley terrain and connects with the Pacific Crest Trail. This route is popular among both hikers and horseback riders.
Winnemucca Lake to Fourth of July Lake
One of the most beloved loop options in the Carson Pass area, this route begins at Carson Pass and travels past Winnemucca Lake—famous for wildflower blooms—to Fourth of July Lake. The 6.5-mile round trip loop includes dramatic views of Round Top Peak and several alpine lakes, making it a summer classic.
The Emigrant Trail from Luther Pass into Hope Valley
Starting from Luther Pass, the Emigrant Trail follows a historic route once used by westward pioneers. This trail gently descends into the lush expanse of Hope Valley, offering easy walking, excellent birdwatching, and brilliant fall colors. It’s ideal for a peaceful stroll or a historical walk through time.
Woods Lake to Winnemucca Lake
This popular 4-mile round trip hike begins at Woods Lake Campground and climbs steadily to Winnemucca Lake. Along the way, hikers are treated to views of Round Top, wildflower-filled meadows in early summer, and the tranquil waters of the lake itself. It’s a moderate hike suitable for all ages.
Bear Lake Trail via Ebbetts Pass
Starting from Ebbetts Pass, this short 2.5-mile hike to Bear Lake is a quiet alternative to busier destinations. The trail is gentle, passing through forest and rock-strewn clearings before reaching the small alpine lake. Perfect for families or as an add-on to exploring the surrounding PCT routes.
