Mark z
Big Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7694'
N 38.12234° W 119.79729°
N 38.12234° W 119.79729°
Visits & Activity
2019 Mz, Gn, Gsr first visit
Interesting Facts & Highlights
No mention of name origin, but obviously the biggest lake in the area, close to Yellowhammer and Bill Leighton's base camp where he plotted the construction of 18 check dams.
Fishing: Rainbows if you can get out into the middle lake. No luck on our visit
Fishing: Rainbows if you can get out into the middle lake. No luck on our visit
Bigelow Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9593'
38.15596°N-119.63609°W
38.15596°N-119.63609°W
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn, Mz day hike
2005 Gn, Mz, Bill, Megan camped
1999 Gn, Mz day hike
2005 Gn, Mz, Bill, Megan camped
1999 Gn, Mz day hike
Interesting Facts & Highlights
A bit of a climb to get to this lake anyway you approach it but we find that a cross-country drop from Bond Pass is the way to go. A lot of nice spots to camp and great climbing within easy reach. Commemorates Major John Bigelow and acting superintendent of Yosemite. The peak (not in the photo) was named first in 1912 and the lake in 1956. Packers claim that it was named after a skinny dipping lady of the night from Sonora 'Big Low'. I will leave that up to you.
Fishing- Rainbows
Fishing- Rainbows
Black Bear Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9285'
38.15084°N-119.64923°W
38.15084°N-119.64923°W
Visits & Activity
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Great views of Bigelow Peak with a nice quiet spot to camp and fish. Some excellent tucked away camp spots. Fishing- Rainbows
Black Bird Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9053'
38.1777°N-119.67331°W
38.1777°N-119.67331°W
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn, Mz hike by
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim camp
2002 Gn, Mz, Gs hike by
1998 Gn, Mz camp
1997 Gn, Mz camp
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr camp
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim camp
2002 Gn, Mz, Gs hike by
1998 Gn, Mz camp
1997 Gn, Mz camp
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
At the crossroads of 2 main trails in a picturesque setting. Shallow lake with no visible fish population.
Black Hawk Lakes
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9660'
38.21101°N-119.71289°W
38.21101°N-119.71289°W
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Right below Black Hawk Mountain with sparse camp sites. If you want solitude, this is the spot. Fishing: Claimed to be Goldens but winter freeze and halting of stocking makes survivors unlikely
Blue Canyon Lakes
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
10039'
N38.29774 W119.66552
N38.29774 W119.66552
Visits & Activity
2007 Gn, Mz viewed
Interesting Facts & Highlights
A good example of volcanic covered granodiorite formations. The granodiorite was formed 80 million years ago during a continental uplift, with the volcanic flows from Relief Peak layering on top about 20 million years later. Some of the old granatic surface is starting to expose as the creeks in the area and year over year weather washes away the weaker volcanic sediments. Great day hike from H108. Fishing: Planted w/Golden's years ago but none now due to winter freeze
Upper Buck Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8307'
38.15676°N-119.74364°W
38.15676°N-119.74364°W
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim camped
1998 Gn, Mz hike by
1992 Gn, Mz day hike to fish
1998 Gn, Mz hike by
1992 Gn, Mz day hike to fish
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Check dam sustained lake where you can see the remnants of a partially built cabin from a defunct Power Company. Camp sites are better uplake at Upper Buck. Hike the ridges above for some spectacular panoramas. Fishing: Rainbows
Lower Buck Lake
Cow Meadow Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7783'
38.14302ºN-119-7344ºW
38.14302ºN-119-7344ºW
Visits & Activity
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
1998 Gn, Mz camp
1998 Gn, Mz camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
In a series of lakes and marshes created by a check dam system pioneered by Fred Leighton. We noticed a bit more bear activity in this area vs the rest of the Emigrant. Be bear aware and use canisters and/or a smart hang. Fishing: Large Rainbows
Deer Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8471'
36.16463ºN-119-76676ºW
36.16463ºN-119-76676ºW
Visits & Activity
2001 Gn, Mz camp
1992 Gn, Mz camp
1992 Gn, Mz camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Heavy camping pressure, so please abide by posted signs and regulations. Fishing: Self sustaining population of colorful Rainbows
Emigrant Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8829
38.17367ºN-119.69808ºW
38.17367ºN-119.69808ºW
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn, Mz, Gs pack by
2002 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
1997 Gn, Mz camp
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr camp
2002 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
1997 Gn, Mz camp
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
An over popular destination best visited early or late season if you want a minimum of fellow guests. Plenty of hiking and exploring opportunities Fishing: Large Rainbows
High Emigrant Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9752'
38.21204ºN-119.63559ºW
38.21204ºN-119.63559ºW
Visits & Activity
2012 Mz day hike
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day hike
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day hike
Interesting Facts & Highlights
A quick walk from Emigrant Meadow Lake. Nice views of Molo Mountain and Kennedy Peak. Not a lot of cover and exposed for a camp spot. No fish due winter freeze
Emigrant Meadow Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9409'
38.20158ºN-119-64725ºW
38.20158ºN-119-64725ºW
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn, Mz camp
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim camp
1999 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
1998 Gn, Mz camp
1997 Gn, Mz camp
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr camp
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim camp
1999 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
1998 Gn, Mz camp
1997 Gn, Mz camp
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Spectacular spot at the junction of three major passes- Brown Bear, Emigrant and Bond. Best spot for star gazing, perfect fly fishing terrain, easy access to peak climbing and lot of wildlife in the area. Be on the lookout for a Golden Eagle who cruises thru around 1000 and 1700 trying to catch the fat marmots running for cover. Last outing in 2012 we observed eagles, red-tailed hawks, crows and northern harriers. Fishing: Rainbows in the lake, Brookies in the outlet stream
Middle Emigrant Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9337'
38.19063ºN-119-65406ºW
38.19063ºN-119-65406ºW
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn, Mz hike by
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim hike by
1999 Gn, Mz, Gs hike by
1998 Gn, Mz hike by
1997 Gn, Mz hike by
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr hike by
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim hike by
1999 Gn, Mz, Gs hike by
1998 Gn, Mz hike by
1997 Gn, Mz hike by
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Check dam maintains water level year round with some campsites. Can be a quiet spot as most hikers choose Emigrant Meadow just up trail or Big Emigrant down trail. Fishing: Rainbows self-sustaining
Five Acres Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7843'
38.1353ºN-119.76701ºW
38.1353ºN-119.76701ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim viewed x-Red Can lake
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Lodgepole fringed with a penetrating deep cobalt color due to a respectable 44 foot depth. Fishing: Rainbows (self-sustaining)
Grizzly Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9836
38.19635ºN-119.60348ºW
38.19635ºN-119.60348ºW
Visits & Activity
2000 Gn, Mz day hike x-Bonnie
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Beautiful isloated base camp for exploring. Fishing: Winter freeze
Grizzly Meadow West Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9672'
38.1896ºN-119.6452ºW
38.1896ºN-119.6452ºW
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn, Mz hike by
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day trip
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
1999 Gn, Mz, Gs hike by
1994 Gn, Mz, Gs hike by
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day trip
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
1999 Gn, Mz, Gs hike by
1994 Gn, Mz, Gs hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Close to main trial, so camp at back end, Named for proximity to Grizzly Peak. Fishing: Was stocked at one time. Winter kill has most likely eliminated any presence
Grizzly Meadow East Lake
Grouse Creek Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8854'
38.24681ºN-119.70908ºW
38.24681ºN-119.70908ºW
Visits & Activity
2007 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
At the end of a beautiful hanging valley. Easy access to Relief peak and great views from the ridge to the left and above of Granite Dome and surrounding areas. Decent camp sites around the dried up lake. Fishing: Planted with Brooks in 1952. No survivors.
Grouse Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7142'
Grouse Lake 1989
Grouse Lake 1989
Visits & Activity
1989 Gn, Mz first pass by
2019 Gn, GnSr, Mz ride by
2019 Gn, GnSr, Mz ride by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Along the popular Bell Meadow trail, it is an easy 5+ mile roundtrip for a quick warm up hike. It is popular and it has a 100ft perimeter camping restriction and a recommended 200ft for LNT and must be on the far side of the lake, away from the trail. Nice swim spot to cool down in the summer heat.
Huckleberry Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7770'
38.13183ºN-119.70756ºW
38.13183ºN-119.70756ºW
Visits & Activity
2014- Mz, Gn, Gs, Js
2001- Gn, Mz view from Lertora
1998- Gn, Mz
2001- Gn, Mz view from Lertora
1998- Gn, Mz
Interesting Facts & Highlights
One of the larger lakes, cross roads to Yosemite and a great base camp for exploring the area. Kennedy Meadows Pack Station most years maintains a summer camp with access to a satellite phone in case of an emergency. Fishing: Rainbows & Brooks
Huckleberry East
Huckleberry Mid-east
Huckleberry Mid-west
Huckleberry West
Hyatt Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7392'
N 38.12111° W 119.83712°
N 38.12111° W 119.83712°
Visits & Activity
2019 Mz, Gn, Gsr first visit
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Named for Edward Hyatt Jr, California state engineer who was part of a USGS field party in 1909. Deep lake with poor campsites on a use-trail from the split to PIngree Lake. View is from Pingree Dome above the lake.
Fishing: Planted at one time but with no spawning areas and the elimination of the program, highly unlikely any have survived.
Fishing: Planted at one time but with no spawning areas and the elimination of the program, highly unlikely any have survived.
Iceland Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9114'
38.22851ºn-119.74469ºW
38.22851ºn-119.74469ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day trip
1995 Mz, Bs day trip
1991 Gn, Mz day trip
1995 Mz, Bs day trip
1991 Gn, Mz day trip
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Best lake for camp sites below Granite Dome. Wonderful views of Lower Relief Valley and Relief Reservoir. At first was assigned as one of the Lewis Lakes but was changed in 1965 by BGN. Fishing: Golden, however none evident in 2003
Karls Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8294'
38.18217ºN-119.56728ºW
38.18217ºN-119.56728ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day trip
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Cross country from Wood Lakes with a heavily wooded shore. Named for Karl Defiebre owner of a Pinecrest Hotel. Fishing: Relied on rainbow plantings no longer conducted
Kennedy Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7805'
38.26077ºN-119.65413ºW
38.26077ºN-119.65413ºW
Visits & Activity
1988 and onwards
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Early season access for a great warm up hike. Visit off-season for quieter days. Named for the Kennedy brothers, Andrew and J.F., who claimed the surrounding area in various documents between 1886 and 1896. The 1883 GLO plat notes several references such as, 'Kennedy Meadows West', Kennedy's Lower Camp', Kennedy Bros. Upper Camp' and 'Kennedy Pass'. Fishing: Self-sustaining German Browns
Leighton Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8281'
38.14156ºN-119.76905ºW
38.14156ºN-119.76905ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day trip
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Cross country from Wood Lakes with a heavily wooded shore and no discernible camp sites. Named after Fred Leighton who master minded the 16 lakes in the Emigrant Basin that were created by check dams to sustain water year round. He also maintained a summer camp at Yellow hammer Lake. Fishing: Rainbows
Lertora Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8353'
38.13911ºN-119.72021ºW
38.13911ºN-119.72021ºW
Visits & Activity
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
1998 Gn, Mz camp far end
1998 Gn, Mz camp far end
Interesting Facts & Highlights
A gem of gems. Peaceful, rugged and gorgeous. Back end of the lake is a bit of a scramble to get to, but is one fantastic spot! Fishing: Rainbows & Brooks
Lower Lewis Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8786'
38.22181ºN-119.72064ºW
38.22181ºN-119.72064ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day trip
1988 Gn, Mz day trip
1972 Mz day trip
1988 Gn, Mz day trip
1972 Mz day trip
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Lower lake of the Lewis chain. Greenest of three sisters with easy access off-trail. Good base camp for day trips up to Granite Dome and surrounding lakes. Named for Burt Lewis a USFS employee who died in WW1 by BGN decision in 1965. Fishing: Brooks
Middle Lewis Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9088'
38.22005ºN-119.72678ºW
38.22005ºN-119.72678ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day trip
1998 Gn, Mz day trip
1972 Mz day trip first time in Emigrant
1998 Gn, Mz day trip
1972 Mz day trip first time in Emigrant
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Middle lake of the Lewis chain. Dramatic brooding granite cliffs with a few camp sites on the north end. Steep ascent from Lower Lewis, but worth the huff and puff. Named for Burt Lewis a USFS employee who died in WW1 by BGN decision in 1965. Fishing: Brooks
Upper Lewis Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9548'
38.21907ºN-119.73217ºW
38.21907ºN-119.73217ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim camp
1988 Mz day trip
1988 Mz day trip
Interesting Facts & Highlights
The golden spot for exploring the Granite Dome area. Limited camp sites but the existing ones are spectacular with easy access to 7 lakes and as many peaks as you can scramble up. Named for Burt Lewis a USFS employee who died in WW1 by BGN decision in 1965. Fishing: Brookies
Upper Lewis Lake South View
Long Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8707'
38.17538ºN-119.75294ºW
38.17538ºN-119.75294ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim hike by
1998 Gn, Mz camp
1998 Gn, Mz camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Good base camp for exploring the surrounding area. Limited camp sites but away from the beaten path. Scramble up to the overlook dome for good views. Fishing: Rainbows up to 17"
Lost Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9689'
38.23037ºN-119.64774ºW
38.23037ºN-119.64774ºW
Visits & Activity
1999 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
1998 Gn, Mz hike by
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr hike by
1998 Gn, Mz hike by
1993 Gn, Mz, Jz, Tr hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Off the beaten path, a small lake in a rocky bowl with adequate campsites. A ferocious population of small brookies that boil the water on every cast and Pacific Crest views make this spot another gem if you like solitude. Good place for a base camp if you wish to scale close-by Molo Mountain and Kennedy Peak. The lake outlet points the way to a rather steep deer trail that will take you to the back end of Kennedy Lake, reducing a lot of hiking miles if you had planned to make the trek via Big Sam. It is not as daunting as it looks. Fishing: Brookies
Maxwell Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8626'
38.1614ºN-119.66993ºW
38.1614ºN-119.66993ºW
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn, Mz day hike & climb
2002 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
2001 Gn, Mz camp
2002 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
2001 Gn, Mz camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Plenty of secluded spots and an easy hike up to Sachse Monument named after a local cattleman who pioneered many of today's trails while working for Bill Wood. Fishing: Brooks
Maxwell Lake West View from Sasche Monument
Mosquito Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9577
38.20275ºN-119.67192ºW
38.20275ºN-119.67192ºW
Visits & Activity
1998 Gn, Mz day hike
1993 Gn, Mz day hike
1993 Gn, Mz day hike
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Secluded site with plenty of vistas. We saw Mountain Lion tracks on the beach head and on a hot day it would be a cool, refreshing dip! Fishing: Rainbows
Pingree Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8097'
N 38.13441° W 119.79864°
N 38.13441° W 119.79864°
Visits & Activity
2019 Mz, Gn, Gsr first visit
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Another lake in the area with no mention of name origin or history. On a glacial bench, high alpine lake with some good campsites. Lots of room to spread out with easy access to Big and Yellowhammer Lakes. Several interesting peaks in the area. Fishing: Rainbows, supposedly, as we did not even see any surface and it was not for a lack of trying. Bring a table and deck of cards!
Pinto Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
94780'
38.207ºN-119.75427ºW
38.207ºN-119.75427ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Viewed from Wilson Meadow Lake
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Picturesque lake in an open setting
Red Can Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8301'
38.14366ºN-119.75316ºW
38.14366ºN-119.75316ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day hike
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Good camp sites and plenty of views from the surrounding ridges. Fishing: Rainbows up to 12"
Relief Reservoir
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7228'
119.7401ºN-119.7401ºW
119.7401ºN-119.7401ºW
Visits & Activity
2022 Image updated
Too many pass-bys and stays to list
Too many pass-bys and stays to list
Interesting Facts & Highlights
PG+E controlled subject to fluctuating levels. Best camps and fishing close to Relief Creek inlet. Relief Valley first shows on the 1853 Goddard's Map of Sonora Pass and is indicated as 'Lower Relief Valley' in 1883. This area is closely linked with the 1852 emigrant party crossing the Sierra range that was caught in an early snowstorm. The party abandoned their wagons and on foot found shelter and sent a group for help. The fine citizens of Sonora and Columbia rallied to their aide and brought the 'relief' they needed so desperately. Fishing: Catch all for trout migrating downriver from the backcountry. Best spots are at the far inlet and the point close to the Grouse Creek inlet halfway along the Huckleberry trail. Good camp spots there as well.
Relief Reservoir 2001
Upper Relief Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8789'
38.22323ºN-119.77538ºW
38.22323ºN-119.77538ºW
Visits & Activity
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Hike northeast to North Upper Relief Lake for fishing and better campsites. Good cool down lake on a hot day. Fishing: Not likely
Ridge Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9225'
38.22122ºN-119.7437ºW
38.22122ºN-119.7437ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim day trip
1995 Mz, Bs day trip
1991 Gn, Mz day trip
1995 Mz, Bs day trip
1991 Gn, Mz day trip
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Camp sites best close to outlet. Falling rocks a concern when under the steep rock face. Best access to Granite Dome is via Upper Lewis Lake. Fishing: Goldens
Sardella Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9476'
38.22279ºN-119.73502ºW
38.22279ºN-119.73502ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Central lake in Granite Dome area. Better camp sites at Ridge, Iceland and Upper Lewis. Best swimming lake in the area. Named for Giovanni Sardella, a noted local resident, by BGN in 1965. Fishing: Goldens, non evident in 2003
Snow Lake 2012
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9364'
38.17191ºN-119.62766ºW
38.17191ºN-119.62766ºW
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn, Mz hike-by
2001 Gn, Mz camp
1999 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
2001 Gn, Mz camp
1999 Gn, Mz, Gs camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Site of the Montezuma Tungsten mine. Plenty of campsites and close access to Bigelow peak with minimum visits as it is off the main trails. Another Leighton check dam lake with some big lunkers! Fishing- Big Brooks and Rainbows
Snow Lake 1999
Snow Lake 2001
Wilson Meadow Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9551'
38.20182ºN-119.74029ºW
38.20182ºN-119.74029ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim camp
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Isolated location perched below Granite Dome with outstanding vistas. Best access via Long and Coolidge Meadow Lakes. Route via Post Corral Canyon is rough. Fishing: No evidence of activity
Wire Lakes
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8842'
38.18051ºN-119.77172ºW
38.18051ºN-119.77172ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 view from Wilson Mdw
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Another secluded spot with good access to nearby lakes, vistas and climbs. Plenty camp sites at both lakes. Fishing: Eastern Brookies
Wood Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8284'
38.1526ºN-119.76118ºW
38.1526ºN-119.76118ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim hike by
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
A member of the three part Wood Lake chain. Named for Bill Wood, an early cattleman in the Piute-Emigrant-Huckleberry area. Fishing: Rainbows
Wood Canal
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8285'
38.15185ºN-119.75653ºW
38.15185ºN-119.75653ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim hike by
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
A member of the three part Wood Lake chain. Named for Bill Wood, an early cattleman in the Piute-Emigrant-Huckleberry area. Fishing: Rainbows
Little Wood South Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8278'
38.15118ºN-119.75069ºW
38.15118ºN-119.75069ºW
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim hike by
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
A member of the three part Wood Lake chain. Named for Bill Wood, an early cattleman in the Piute-Emigrant-Huckleberry area. Fishing: Rainbows
Little Wood North Lake
Yellowhammer Lake
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7756'
N 38.11919° W 119.78432°
N 38.11919° W 119.78432°
Visits & Activity
2019 Mz, Gn, Gsr first visit
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Yellowhammer Lake was named by Fred Leighton which served as his base of operations. From the National Register of Historic Names and Places: All of the dams built by Leighton are unobtrusive and ensure annual stream flow when streams would have normally dried up during fall months. For nearly 57 years, Leighton used the camp he called Yellowhammer as a base for promoting, building, and servicing check dams throughout the Emigrant Basin. The camp has also been used by the Stanislaus National Forest and the California Department of Fish & Game as a base from which to inspect and maintain the dams.
Fishing: Rainbows and the only lake to have been productive during our stay
Fishing: Rainbows and the only lake to have been productive during our stay
Big Sam
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
10825'
38.22892°N-119.62502°W
38.22892°N-119.62502°W
Visits & Activity
1997 Mz hiked
1994 Gn, Mz hiked
1994 Gn, Mz hiked
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Formed by flows of andesite mixed with water that erupted from the nearby Relief Peak vent. Horse Meadow road runs over the top as another reminder of mining in this area and the extreme measures that were taken to extract Tungsten. This is the highest point attainable in Emigrant by trail and the view is not to be missed as you have an up and down the Pacific Crest view.
Bigelow Peak
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
10488'
38.14908°N - 119.628°W
38.14908°N - 119.628°W
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn summit, Mz day hike
2006 Gn attempt
2002 Gn, Mz attempt
1999 First view
2006 Gn attempt
2002 Gn, Mz attempt
1999 First view
Interesting Facts & Highlights
A metamorphic structure (compressed sea-bottom alluvial rock) that was pushed up by Sierra movements over the eons. Points of contact with the surrounding granite formations are where tungsten deposits are located and had been mined during WWII. Most of the infrastructure and abandoned equipment was removed in order for this area to attain Wilderness status.
Black Hawk Mountain
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
10348'
38.20617°N-119.70889°W
38.20617°N-119.70889°W
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz summit
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Access from Granite Dome, Upper Lewis Lake or Mosquito Pass. Looks a lot closer then it takes to get there from Upper Lewis Lakes. Another outstanding view point for Emigrant and Yosemite features.
Brown Bear Pass
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9777'
38.21287°N-119.66451°W
38.21287°N-119.66451°W
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz hiked
1994 Gn, Mz first hike
Numerous pack-ins
1994 Gn, Mz first hike
Numerous pack-ins
Interesting Facts & Highlights
One of three passes at the top of Emigrant Wilderness. Emigrant and Bond Passes are all within a few miles. Gateway to the high country with spectacular views, hikes, climbs and star gazing. Interesting side note is that as you walk this pass you are on the divide of glacial and volcanic formations right at your footsteps.
East Flange Rock
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9896'
38.24389°N-119.78038°W
38.24389°N-119.78038°W
Visits & Activity
2022 Updated image
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
1998 Gn, Mz hike by
1992 Gn, Mz hike by
2001 Gn, Mz hike by
1998 Gn, Mz hike by
1992 Gn, Mz hike by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Remnant of topographic inversion where volcanic eruptions overflowed granatic river beds, and in this area buried gold. The first Sierra travelers also rested in the meadow below on their journey to Sonora.
East Flange Rock 2001
Granite Dome
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
10282'
N 38.21518° W 119.74599°
N 38.21518° W 119.74599°
Visits & Activity
2003 Gn, Mz, Jim over the top
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Named by Wheeler survey on its atlas sheet 56d, 1879-79. An obvious choice! Granite Dome is a massive piece of granite in the heart of the Emigrant Wilderness. It is the predominant mountain in this area with a smattering of picturesque lakes that provide both excellent camping and fishing opportunities. (Alpinist)
The landform's descriptive toponym was applied by the USGS, has been officially adopted by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names, and has appeared in publications since at least 1899. This landform is the only one officially named "Granite Dome" in the United States despite being located just nine miles north of Yosemite National Park which is well known for its granite domes. (Wikipedia)
The landform's descriptive toponym was applied by the USGS, has been officially adopted by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names, and has appeared in publications since at least 1899. This landform is the only one officially named "Granite Dome" in the United States despite being located just nine miles north of Yosemite National Park which is well known for its granite domes. (Wikipedia)
Grizzly Peak
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
10365'
38.19192ºN-119.62161ºW
38.19192ºN-119.62161ºW
Visits & Activity
1994 Gn, Mz climb
Numerous hike & pack by
Numerous hike & pack by
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Grizzly Peak is an ancient volcanic steam vent. The lower portion of the mountain is covered with a sandy light gray colored volcanic ash and the summit is crowned with interesting formations and arches of reddish brown volcanic rock. Possibly named during the 1891-96 Dardanelles survey as it showed on the first edition map in 1898. Nearby meadow and lakes appeared first on the Tower Peak map in 1956.
Molo Mountain
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
10875'
38.2347°N-119.65707°W
38.2347°N-119.65707°W
Visits & Activity
1997 Gn, Mz summit
1996 Gn summit
1996 Gn summit
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Molo sits at the center of an alpine cirque of red and black volcanic cliffs that surround Soda Canyon. Access from Emigrant Meadow or Lost Lake. Numerous routes and excellent views into Soda Canyon, Kennedy Peak and Relief Peak in the distance.
Molo Mountain 1997
Mark @ Molo 1997
Geo @ Molo 1997
Night Cap Peak
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
10641'
38.30773°N-119.69128°W
38.30773°N-119.69128°W
Visits & Activity
2008 Gn summit
2007 Gn attempt, Mz base
2007 Gn attempt, Mz base
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Volcanic peak on the divide between Deadman and Kennedy Creeks. Easiest access is via the Night Cap trail as you head from Lower to Upper Kennedy Meadows. Once you gain the first saddle by a large water tank, turn left and start scrambling. The trail is used to move cattle back and forth from Kennedy Lake and is worn out in many spots. Another access is via the Chipmunk Flat campground via a not often visited hanging valley.
Peak 8767
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
8767'
38.12678°N-119.74083°W
38.12678°N-119.74083°W
Visits & Activity
2001 Gn, Mz summit
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Series of 3 small granite dome peaks. Access from Lertora Lake for a nice day hike. Good views into Yosemite but watch your water rations, the available water quality in the nearby ponds is questionable. Great views across the valley of Haystack Peak and a considerable panorama of Emigrant Wilderness. Several examples of exfoliation in the area.
Sachse Monument
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
9485'
38.15245°N-119.67194°W
38.15245°N-119.67194°W
Visits & Activity
2012 Gn, Mz summit
2001 Gn, Mz summit
2001 Gn, Mz summit
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Named after Charlie Sachse who mapped out early routes in the Emigrant while grazing cattle. Easy access from the back of Maxwell Lake. Southern exposure and steep drop is a playground for raptors riding the thermals
Silver Mine Ridge
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
7539'
N 38.28280° W 119.73589°
N 38.28280° W 119.73589°
Visits & Activity
2022 First image
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Ridge above the Silver Creek Mine from the Huckleberry trail
zPeak
Location
Emigrant Wilderness
Elevation & GPS
10530'
N 38.26735° W 119.70615°
N 38.26735° W 119.70615°
Visits & Activity
2022 First image added to site
Interesting Facts & Highlights
Non-named peak adopted by Mark z of zScapes having photographed it countless times as it is the first glimpse of the Emigrant Wilderness as you start the Huckleberry trail at Upper Kennedy Meadows
May our paths & errands meet
Copyright © 1990-2024 zScapes. All rights reserved
