Aloha from California

Say Aloha without leaving California with a 7-mile out-and-back hiking adventure to Lake Aloha in El Dorado National Forest. You can also camp here, a premier place for stargazing.

From the Echo Lake Trailhead, hikers can head to the Chalet to purchase tickets for the water taxi. This boat service ferries hikers across Echo Lake. (Avid trekkers can also hike along the water’s edge, adding 2.5 miles each way, so 12 miles, all-in.) At an elevation of 7,500 feet, this alpine lake is surrounded by stark, rocky peaks dotted with evergreens.

On the far side of the lake, disembark the taxi to begin the hike. Follow signs for the Pacific Crest Trail as they lead up into the hills. The trail soon crosses over the boundary to Desolation Wilderness, aptly named for the bare, craggy mountains and scree-covered route. At an elevation of 8,000 feet, snowy mountaintops swim into view in the distance.

At 8,300 feet, the trail levels out as it approaches Lake Aloha. This beautiful sapphire-blue lake sits below the trio of Pyramid Peak, Agassiz, and Mount Price. Hikers can enjoy a picnic lunch along the rocky shore or take a dip in the refreshing water. 

Those who purchased an overnight pass are in for a treat: after setting up camp for the night, stay awake to enjoy the incredible stargazing. This far from civilization, the Milky Way is easily visible on clear nights. Perfect for astronomy buffs! 

The Echo Lake Trailhead is located on Echo Lakes Road in Echo Lake, CA. Map.

There is a $15 day hiking fee, and a $22 water taxi fee each way. Overnight camping is available at Lake Aloha. You will need a Wilderness Permit to secure a campsite at Lake Aloha. Dog-friendly!

Story and photos by Heather Werner, @heath.er.wer.ner