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Details

Distance

6 miles

Elevation Gain

1700 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Anna Cohen

Deadman Lake offers stunning, turquoise alpine lake at the end of a challenging hike. This hike is 6-8 miles depending on which route you choose. Enjoy solitude and wonderment abound!

Start: 38º19'08.46"N 119º39'49.26"W Elev 8879ft

Park along Hwy 108, head down the bank and across the stream at the bottom. There you will find the start of the trail.

This is a challenging hike without much of an actual trail to follow for the majority of it. The hike is very steep in certain areas, especially as you are making your final ascent to Deadman Lake. You can walk up it, no climbing equipment required, but just make sure you wear a good pair of boots with excellent grip.

Initially, follow the trail through meadows of beautiful, bright wildflowers. You will need to make a choice about which way you would like to proceed to the final destination.

Option 1: At 38º18'28.18"N 119º39'33.17"W Elev. 9531ft head East and follow along the North side of the creek up the mountain side. You will arrive in a beautiful grassy basin, at which time you will need to cross the creek. Then, head South up the mountain side. You will see a faint trail which you can then follow up to the lake.

Option 2: At 38º17'58.27"N 119º39'4710"W Elev. 10039ft head East up and over the ridge. Skirt the East side of the ridge to the South. You will see a faint trail which you can then follow up to the lake.

The lake is stunning and the views from the top are worth the trek. Depending on which way you take, expect anywhere from 6 to 8 miles round trip.

Be careful and use good judgement in regards to your abilities when hiking off trail.

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