Field notes: hike to upper sardine lake

This is one of our absolute favorite places to adventure, offering breathtaking views that simply put, BLOW. YOUR. MIND!

Enjoy an easy hike to what is one of the most scenic spots in the Sierra. 

While there you can take a dip in a pristine remote Alpine lake, fish, hike, enjoy a lakeside picnic and listen up, insider tip…take a paddle board or kayak and there’s a secret hidden waterfall with swimming holes that are the most beautiful place to cool off on a sunny day.

BREATHTAKING VIEWS AT LOWER SARDINE LAKE WHERE YOU BEGIN YOUR HIKE

TRAIL DETAILS FOR UPPER SARDINE LAKE

Length:

The hike to Upper Sardine Lake is aprox 1.5 miles out and back. This trail is easy to moderate with some elevation gain.  

How to Access:

Driving directions:

Turn right out of the Constellation Creek main entrance.  Make a left on CA-89N.  At the junction make a left onto CA-49 until you reach Bassetts, then turn right onto Gold Lake Highway.  Take the left turn off towards Sardine Lake and park next to Sardine Lake Resort.   If using a GPS simply enter Sardine Lake Resort and it will take you right where you need to park, in the car park next to the resort.

Trailhead directions:

When facing Lower Sardine Lake with the Sierra Butte mountain range in front of you, take the dirt road that runs up the right hand side of the lake. Follow the trail up until you make it over the ridge, where you will discover the secret hidden gem that is Upper Sardine Lake.  Now dive in and cool off…you’ve deserved it!

WHAT TO BRING

The trail does not have much shade, so be sure to lather up with sunscreen, pack ample water and your favorite sunhat

You’ll need sturdy hiking shoes and if you have them wear your swim/hike shoes so you can jump off the rocks into the water.

Pack a picnic and enjoy once you reach the lake, lunch spots do not get much nicer!

Note it can be much windier up at the Upper Lake than back at Constellation Creek, so good to also pack a sweater even on warm days.