Laurel Lakes

At just below 10,000 feet of elevation, Laurel Lake is a small backcountry sub-alpine lake uniquely accessible by driving. In 4.5 very rough and rocky miles, the historic mining road climbs steeply from Sherwin Creek Road to the edge of the John Muir Wilderness. The road is not recommended for any but the sturdiest high-clearance 4x4 vehicles, and it’s popular with the OHV set. There are primitive campsites near the lake, which contains rainbow trout and rare native goldens. Snowmobile access in winter and spring makes this a popular staging area for backcountry skiing the north-facing slopes of Bloody Mountain.
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At just below 10,000 feet of elevation, Laurel Lake is a small backcountry sub-alpine lake uniquely accessible by driving. In 4.5 very rough and rocky miles, the historic mining road climbs steeply from Sherwin Creek Road to the edge of the John Muir Wilderness. The road is not recommended for any but the sturdiest high-clearance 4x4 vehicles, and it’s popular with the OHV set. There are primitive campsites near the lake, which contains rainbow trout and rare native goldens. Snowmobile access in winter and spring makes this a popular staging area for backcountry skiing the north-facing slopes of Bloody Mountain.

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Public Services
Hours of Operation: N/A

Season: Fall Spring Summer
This trail is accessed from the Laurel Lakes Road. From the Junction of Laurel Lakes Road and Sherwin Creek Road ascend several miles of rough 4x4 road to the trailhead. A high clearance vehicle equipped with Four-Wheel Drive is necessary for the drive up Laurel Lakes Road.
- Get driving directions to Jct Laurel Lakes Road and Sherwin Creek Road
- Get public-transit options*
*Note that not all facilities are accessible via public transit.