Wrights Lake to Grouse, Hemlock, and Smith Lakes, Eldorado National Forest, California

This is the trail to Grouse, Hemlock, and Smith Lakes. Since this is mostly in a Wilderness area, user groups include only hikers and horses. Mechanized transport including bicycles are not allowed. It is a one way trail but with beautiful high country granite and expansive views. All three lakes are beautiful. The hike is suitable as either an overnight or a day hike. It took me an hour and a half to reach Smith Lake. The trail is easy to follow, but rather steep for some people in spots, especially the final rock scramble to Smith Lake. This is a popular trail so do not expect desolation here in the Desolation Wilderness. Keep your eyes and ears open for sooty grouse which can be found around these lakes.

The trailhead is at a public parking lot just beyond the private cabin tract at the popular Wrights Lake. This pleasant lake is just outside of the Desolation Wilderness in Eldorado National Forest. The easiest access for most people is from Highway 50. Take the Wrights Lake Road off Highway 50 which is between the towns of Kyburz and Strawberry. The road is paved the entire way.

Permits for day hiking are obtainable at a kiosk just past the trailhead. Permits for overnight hikes are available online or at the Pollock Pines Ranger Station. If you plan on camping at Wrights Lake reserve well in advance because it is often booked in the summer due to it's beauty and popularity. Nearby alternative campgrounds are to be found around Icehouse and Union Reservoirs. Some spur roads near Wrights have areas suitable for dispersed camping if you have a vehicle capable of driving rougher roads.