Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
520.00 ft (158.50 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
2.50 mi (4.02 km)
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The Sierra Buttes area is a wonderland of lakes, historic lodges, and wonderful mountain hikes. The Tamarack Lakes are a lovely little pair of lakes that make a great short backpacking or day hike destination. The trail is a four-wheel drive road that is only used by campers heading for the lakes, so there is minimal traffic for hikers on this route.

From the trailhead parking area the trail and road starts climbing right away and doesn't let up until the first lake is reached. There are wonderful views of the lakes basin for most of the hike, and the grade is easy. The lakes are close together and separated by a boggy meadow. There are campsites alongside both lakes that offer beautiful views and reasonable solitude.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Wonderful views all the way up. Nice little lakes.

Cons

Four-wheel drive road open to vehicles.

Trailhead Elevation

6,166.00 ft (1,879.40 m)

Features

Backcountry camping
Big vistas
Fishing

Suitable for

Biking
Horseback

Location

Nearby Adventures

Lake Tahoe + Northern Sierra, California
Lake Tahoe + Northern Sierra, California
Lake Tahoe + Northern Sierra, California

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Lake Tahoe + Northern Sierra, California
Lake Tahoe + Northern Sierra, California
Lake Tahoe + Northern Sierra, California

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