Lake Aloha Backpacking

Desolation Wilderness

Lake Aloha, Desolation Wilderness, California
Lake Aloha, Desolation Wilderness, California

Lake Aloha Backpacking

Desolation Wilderness


Lake Aloha

At the Heart of the Desolation Wilderness

Lake Aloha's stark beauty, meandering shoreline, and countless islands draw campers to its shores. A moderately easy hike from the trailhead at Echo Lakes - especially if you take advantage of the water taxi - Lake Aloha makes an excellent base from which to explore surrounding lakes, trails, and peaks. Fishing is good in most of the lakes. Photographers take advantage of the ever-changing light on the rocks. Swimmers venture into the water late in the summer, being mindful that cold water can quickly sap your energy.

Lake Aloha, Desolation Wilderness, California

Lake Aloha


Lake Aloha - Key Facts


Location: Desolation Wilderness, El Dorado County
Trailhead: Echo Lakes on Echo Summit, elevation 7,414 feet
Highest point on trail: 8,340 feet
Elevation Gain: 926 feet
Lake Aloha elevation: 8,116 feet
Hiking Distance: 6.7 miles (using water taxi, 4.0 miles)
Best seasons: Late spring through fall
Campsites: Along Lake Aloha's northeast shore or along the rocks on the southern shore


sign to Lake Aloha, 6.7 miles

Wildlife

Bears are active around Lake Aloha. Using a bear canister is the best choice for protecting your food since trees are sparse along much of the lake's shoreline. Deer are occasional visitors, most likely seen late in the season. Mountain lions prefer lower and more forested areas where they can stalk their prey undetected. Chances are good that you will never see a mountain lion.

Rattlesnakes have been seen along the trail, but are rare along heavily used routes such as Lake Aloha. Hikers should always use caution. Look for marmots sunning on the rocks. They have been known to chew on salty objects such as backpack straps. Mosquitoes are pesky from early summer through mid-August. Avoid camping near swampy spots around Lake Aloha. Favor locations with a good breeze.



Echo Lakes Marina, Desolation Wilderness, California

Echo Lakes Marina


Black Diamond Headlamp





Women and Men's Hats





Lake Aloha - Key Facts


Location: Desolation Wilderness, El Dorado County
Trailhead: Echo Lakes on Echo Summit, elevation 7,414 feet
Highest point on trail: 8,340 feet
Elevation Gain: 926 feet
Lake Aloha elevation: 8,116 feet
Hiking Distance: 6.7 miles (using water taxi, 4.0 miles)
Best seasons: Late spring through fall
Campsites: Along Lake Aloha's northeast shore or along the rocks on the southern shore


sign to Lake Aloha, 6.7 miles

Lake Aloha Trailhead:
Echo Lakes

The most convenient trailhead for Lake Aloha is at Echo Lakes, just a mile off Highway 50 at Echo Summit, west of South Lake Tahoe. A large parking lot is available on the hillside above the Echo Chalet. Restrooms are located nearby. The Chalet has lodging, a store, a marina, a deli, and post office. They are usually open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Boat Taxi

The Chalet operates a boat taxi to the far end of the upper lake. Current rates are $20 per person each way. Dogs are $8. A $60 minimum (3 people) is required for the taxi to operate. There is a phone at the upper lake landing so backpackers can call for the taxi.



Nearby Camping and Lodging

The Echo Chalet has a 2-night minimum for the rental of its housekeeping cabins. Other accommodations can be found at the Strawberry Lodge, 8 miles west on Highway 50. Numerous motels are located in Myers and South Lake Tahoe.

Campgrounds are available near Strawberry and Kyburz along Highway 50 and at Fallen Leaf Lake close to Lake Tahoe.

For complete information about camping and recreation in the Echo Summit area, see Discover Echo Summit.