The trailhead is across the highway from Emerald Bay State Park. Park for a fee at the trailhead or for free along the road. You must fill out a free day use permit at the trailhead because you are about to enter the Desolation Wilderness. The hike begins easily but spectacularly, crossing a shrubby meadow at the base of a rugged mountain slope to reach Eagle Falls in only a quarter-mile. You can follow a loop trail back to your car for a one-mile round trip, but Eagle Lake is farther up the valley.

The trail to Eagle Lake continues to meander upward, passing sometimes through trees and sometimes in full sun. The terrain is rocky but the trail is well-maintained and never too rugged.

At mile 0.75 is a fork. Go right to continue to the lake, just a quarter-mile farther. Going left leads up into the high country, where more remote lakes and peaks await along a much longer hike.

Once at the lake, you’ll enjoy a view of sparkling-blue water, perfectly framed by gray cliffs and green trees. If it’s hot out, you can enjoy a dip in the crisp water. Take time to scramble along the shore and explore it all from different angles. Find a rock outcrop of your own to jump in or drop a line. When satisfied, return the way you came to the trailhead.