Hiking

Hiking to Crystal Lake

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  • This hike is known for outstanding views of the pristine alpine lakes of the Lakes Basin. The trail to the Crystal Lake turnoff (0.7 mi.) is distinguished mostly by granite rock, with fir trees, pines, hemlocks, and manzanita providing shade on the rest of your trip. When you reach the lake, you’ll be struck by the dominant rock feature known as Crystal Crag, a hard granite protrusion that, unlike the surrounding rock, wasn’t eroded by glaciers and rivers. The 13 acres of beautiful Crystal Lake will keep you enchanted for hours, whether you’re walking the lakeshore or just relaxing in the sun!

  • This hike is known for outstanding views of the pristine alpine lakes of the Lakes Basin. The trail to the Crystal Lake turnoff (0.7 mi.) is distinguished mostly by granite rock, with fir trees, pines, hemlocks, and manzanita providing shade on the rest of your trip. When you reach the lake, you’ll be struck by the dominant rock feature known as Crystal Crag, a hard granite protrusion that, unlike the surrounding rock, wasn’t eroded by glaciers and rivers. The 13 acres of beautiful Crystal Lake will keep you enchanted for hours, whether you’re walking the lakeshore or just relaxing in the sun!

  • Experience Checklist

    • Binoculars
    • Camera
    • Hiking boots
    • Hiking poles
    • Insect repellent
    • Sunglasses
    • Sun hat
    • Sunscreen/lip protector
    • Water
    • Wildlife-identification guide

    Public Services

    Experience Information

    Trail Length
    2.7 miles
    Trail Surface
    Soil
    Duration
    Less than 4 hours

Reviews

Aug. 10, 2015

“Beautiful hike! ”

Sam Acosta, San Diego, CA

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Related Trails

Related Trails

Trail Length (mi) Surface Activities and Services
Crystal Lake Trail 0.3 Sand Equestrian Hiking
Mammoth Crest Trail 7.2 Soil Equestrian Hiking

Related Destinations

Lake George

  • Hours/Season: Store: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., summer only | Year Round 

  • Boating  Fishing 

Related Destinations

Destination Activities and Services
Crystal Crag Climbing
Crystal Lake Fishing Wildflower Viewing
Lake George Boating Fishing
Lake George Campground Camping
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