If you only had time for one hike in the Lee Vining area, choose the 20 Lakes Basin. Fabulous scenery accompanies almost every step of this classic loop hike. Located just east of Yosemite National Park, the trek starts above 10,000-ft. and then follows a gentle to moderate grade visiting nine scenic lakes set amid an every changing backdrop of stunning peak and ridges.
The gorgeous setting and relative ease of the hike, with elevation gains and losses of just a few hundred feet, make this trail popular with hikers, fishermen and backpackers of all ages.
North Peak, Mount Conness, the Shepherd Crest and the Tioga Crest dominate the views along much of the hike. Pretty meadows dotted with wildflowers, colorful crags, lovely waterfalls and cascading streams add to the scenic delights.
- Highlights: Dramatic alpine lakes, stream, forest
- Near: Lee Vining, CA
- Distance: 9 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 300 ft
- Hike Time: 5 hrs.
- Difficulty: 5/10
- Trail Condition: well maintained trail
- Best Season: Summer, Fall
- Dog Friendly: Yes
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- GPX File Download: >>CLICK HERE<<
Getting to the trail head:
From Los Angeles – 5 fwy (north) to 14 fwy (north) to hwy 395 (north) to hwy 120 (west) to Saddlebag Lake Rd. (right) to trail head.
Trail Detail Map
Trail Profile
Saddlebag Lake
North Peak
20 Lakes Basin
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