Gold Lakes Highway Now Open for Adventure Seekers

May 7, 2025 | Sierra Rec Magazine

Great news for Sierra adventurers—Gold Lake Highway is officially open for the season as of today, May 7th! This scenic mountain road off Yuba Pass connects visitors to the heart of the Lakes Basin Recreation Area near Graeagle, CA, a favorite destination for hikers, anglers, and campers ready to shake off the winter and dive into alpine summer.

Thanks to our friends at Sierra Pines Resort in Sierra City for the update! With the road clear, access to dozens of high-country lakes—including Gold Lake, Bear Lake, Long Lake, and the ever-popular Sierra Buttes and Sardine Lakes—is now wide open.

We’ve explored this area often, and it never disappoints. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful paddle across Gold Lake, a hike around the Bear Lake Loop with a side trip into Long Lake’s turquoise basin, or a dramatic photo op beneath the towering Sierra Buttes, there’s something for every level of adventurer.

Weekend Tip:

Make a basecamp at Sierra Pines Resort in Sierra City—perfectly positioned near the Pacific Crest Trail, Lovers Falls, and the Wild Plum trail network. It’s a cozy jump-off point for both mountain solitude and backcountry exploration.

So grab your fishing pole, lace up your boots, or pack the paddleboard—the Lakes Basin is calling. And with summer just around the corner, there’s no better time to reconnect with the alpine lakes and trails we love.