Discovering Greenstone Lake: The Gateway to 20 Lakes Basin
Tucked within the Hoover Wilderness just outside of the North East corner of Yosemite national Park, Greenstone Lake is the perfect introduction to the breathtaking 20 Lakes Basin and Eastern Sierra high Alpine lakes. Shadowed by Mt Conness and North Peak int he White mountain Range greenstone Lake is a picture perfect Meadow protected lake that welcomes visitors to hiking at 10’000 feet with little or no effort.
Starting from the Saddlebag Lake trailhead, located a few miles from the Tioga Pass entrance of Yosemite of Tioga Pass highway, ,this serene destination is just a short hike from the shoreline, offering an accessible yet stunning escape into the Eastern Sierra. Cross the dam at saddlebag lake and traverse a shallow trail of loose rock and broken scree in a rather sun drenched open slope that follows saddlebag lake. Or bring a kayak or paddleboard and enter the lake at the old lodge and paddle across the lake. And when available you could take the lake taxi across the lake as well, but I have never actually seen t run, so check at the lodge.
Greenstone Lake – The 20 Lakes Basin – Hover Wilderness
• Trailhead:20 Lakes Basin
• Distance: 1 mile to Greenstone Lake (7-mile loop available)
• Elevation of Greenstone Lake : 10,100 feet
• Estimated Time: 30 mins ~ Easy Trail
• Permit Required: No
As the first lake on the renowned 7-mile 20 Lakes Basin loop, Greenstone enchants visitors with its shimmering waters surrounded by dramatic peaks of Mt. Conness and vibrant alpine meadows that warp 2/3 of the lake shoreline. . It’s an ideal spot to pause and take in the view, whether you’re here for a quick day hike or planning to explore the full loop. Pack a lunch, find a peaceful perch along the shore, and let the tranquility wash over you.
On the Westside of the lake a Glacier fed stream pours into to the lake and provides an easy rock crossing area to climb further up the ridge to the Glacial Lakes near by. And on the East side of the lake visitors can find other access trail into 20 Lakes basin and familiar highlight destinations like Steelhead lake and Shamrock Lake.
For those craving more, the trail continues to unveil a series of dazzling alpine lakes, each more spectacular than the last. But even if Greenstone is your only stop, its raw beauty is enough to leave you feeling deeply connected to the Sierra’s wilderness.
The basin is home to some great brook and golden trout fishing. Saddlebag Creek flows out of the dam and is home to solid brook trout fishing and great high mountain stream scenery. The expansive Saddlebag Lake and its surroundings offer plenty of space and seldom feels crowded.
Fishing at Saddlebag Lake: A High Sierra Angler’s Paradise
Sitting at 10,000 feet above sea level, Saddlebag Lake is a gem for fishing enthusiasts in the Eastern Sierra. Spanning 340 acres, the lake offers ample opportunities for anglers, with trolling being the go-to technique for most visitors. For those who prefer casting from shore, the trail that circles the lake provides excellent access, making it easy to explore various spots.
Some of the best fishing areas include the inlet, the dam, and the center of the lake’s unique figure-eight shape. One standout location is Jennifer’s Point on the east side, known for its productive waters. Saddlebag Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and is also home to a population of brook trout, giving anglers a great chance at a successful catch.
Fly fishing enthusiasts will find their own slice of heaven in the waters feeding into and flowing out of the lake. Saddlebag Creek, running from the dam down to Ellery Lake, is a picturesque mountain stream brimming with trout. Meanwhile, the 20 Lakes Basin, accessible via the Saddlebag Lake Resort water taxi or the lakeside trail, offers breathtaking scenery and the chance to reel in golden and brook trout—a dream for any angler.
The 20 Lakes Basin is a true backcountry paradise for anglers looking for a more secluded and scenic fishing experience. Located just behind Saddlebag Lake, this high-altitude basin is dotted with over 20 alpine lakes, each offering its own unique fishing opportunities. Here’s a deeper dive into what makes the 20 Lakes Basin special for fishing enthusiasts:
Fish Species
Many of the lakes in the basin are stocked or naturally sustain populations of golden trout, brook trout, and rainbow trout, making it a rewarding destination for anglers. These cold, clear waters often produce healthy fish, especially brook and golden trout, which are prized catches for their beauty and challenge.
Popular Lakes for Fishing
- Greenstone Lake – One of the first lakes you’ll encounter on the loop, it’s a prime spot for brook trout.
- Steelhead Lake – Known for its deeper waters, this lake is great for targeting larger fish, especially rainbow trout.
- Cascade Lake – A favorite for golden trout enthusiasts, this smaller lake offers peaceful, scenic fishing.
- Shamrock Lake – Nestled in a stunning location, Shamrock Lake is ideal for anglers seeking brook trout and solitude.
Fishing Techniques
- Fly Fishing: The crystal-clear water and shallow shorelines make the basin a fly fisher’s dream. Dry flies and nymphs often perform well, mimicking the basin’s natural insect life.
- Spinners and Spoons: For those using conventional gear, small spinners, spoons, and jigs are effective in these pristine waters.
- Bait Fishing: Anglers using worms or dough baits like PowerBait often find success, especially in the more accessible lakes closer to Saddlebag Lake.
Access and Tips
- Saddlebag Lake Resort Water Taxi: The water taxi is the quickest way to reach the trailheads for the 20 Lakes Basin. It shaves off a few miles of hiking, making the basin more accessible for day trips.
- Hiking the Trail: The full loop around the 20 Lakes Basin is approximately 6 miles, with minimal elevation gain, making it manageable for most visitors.
- Best Time to Visit: Fishing is generally best in late spring through early fall, depending on snowpack and lake conditions. Early morning and evening hours tend to yield the best fishing results.
Getting There
To reach Saddlebag Lake, take Highway 120 (Tioga Pass Road) about 12 miles from its junction with Highway 395. Turn onto Saddlebag Lake Road and follow it for three miles to the lake. The journey itself is an adventure, with stunning views leading you to one of the best high-altitude fishing spots in the Sierra Nevada.
