logo
ic_menu

Eldorado NF - Lyons Creek hike

Wrights Lake Road, El Dorado County, California

Description

Eldorado National Forest is located in the central Sierra Nevada mountain range, in eastern California, immediately to the southwest of Lake Tahoe. Elevation varies dramatically between 300m and 3,000m above sea level. The climate is one of warm, dry summers and cold, wet winters. The hike reviewed here is a 20km out and back with moderate total elevation gain/loss of 700m. The single-track trail isn't very technical but, because of the distance, this hike is best reserved for at least intermediate hikers with good fitness level.

Access & Transport

The Lyons Creek Trailhead is 6km north of CA-50 along Wrights Lake rd. The turn-off is between Kyburz and Strawberry/Twin Bridges.

Instructions & Recommendations

Wrights Lake rd is closed in winters. Shoes need not be too technical (trail runners are fine) but don't forget to bring food/cereal bars, plenty of water, sunblock, and dress with layers.

Meta review

Easily one of the favourite hikes in the area for online reviewers - although they do point out that the Caldor Fire of late summer 2021 has left a major burnt area, but nature is already coming back to life according to the latest comments. The trail is described as easy to follow and dog-friendly with quite a few day-hikers on summer weekends. In late spring it can be quite muddy but you will be rewarded with wildflowers blooming until the early summer.

Environmental & Social

Eco-friendly activity. Socially marginally positive as it brings some revenues to the villages / small towns in the area

Conclusion

Gorgeous scenery with glacial lakes and blooming wildflowers in late spring. It does take some time to get there (an overnight stay in the area or around Lake Tahoe is highly recommended) but hikers will be rewarded by the views.

Key positive

Very scenic landscapes

Easy trail

Key negative

Time consuming to get to the trailhead

Suitability

An above-average fitness level is required (best for children > 10-12yrs old). Not accessible to anybody with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

Updated in July 2023

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:1h

est. visit time:5h 30m

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. For a complete overview of all cookies used, please see MORE INFORMATION.