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A relatively easy hike around a serene lake in the woods.


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Map Key

3.9

Miles

6.3

KM

Loop

5,687' 1,733 m

High

5,620' 1,713 m

Low

222' 68 m

Up

228' 70 m

Down

2%

Avg Grade (1°)

16%

Max Grade (9°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views

Family Friendly Restrooms at the start and middle, as well as a snack bar, swim area, morning story time events, and movie screenings in summer evenings.

Need to Know

There are ample restrooms in the day use area. A pit toilet is located at "Sunset Point" on the far side of the lake.

Description

The trailhead is located at the end of Pinecrest Lake Rd. Parking is free for day use. The trail is well traveled and marked well. The first mile follows the south east shore of the lake. You'll pass several homes only accessible by watercraft as you hike along the side of the lake. As you begin the climb up to the top end of the lake, you'll ascend a set of metal stair cases.

On the far side of the lake, the trail splits. Stay left to complete the lake loop. There is a sign that clearly points you in the correct direction. The path to the right leads up to the Cleo's Bath swimming hole. Continuing on the path, you'll hike over a series of granite slabs. Look for trail markers embedded into the granite to help you stay on track.

After about 2.6 miles, you'll hike across the Pinecrest Lake dam. The path is paved and easy to navigate. From here, the trail climbs back up to overlook the lake. There are several excellent vistas on this portion of the trail. The hike ends back at the day use area.

Flora & Fauna

The area is forested with a mixture of pine, fir, and cedar trees. There is also the occasional willow.

Contacts

Shared By:

Ryan Guy

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 4 votes

#1

in Strawberry

#10869

Overall
  4.3 from 4 votes
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Trail Rankings

#1

in Strawberry

#1,023

in California

#10,869

Overall
14 Views Last Month
1,169 Since Nov 12, 2018
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Looking out at Pinecrest lake from the Pinecrest National Recreation Trail
Nov 12, 2018 near Arnold, CA
Looking at Pinecrest boat launch and dam from the start of the Pinecrest Lake National Recreation Trail
Nov 14, 2018 near Twain H…, CA

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Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

Aug 21, 2023
John Searing
Nice hiking trail. 4.2mi — 2h 40m
Jun 25, 2022
Marc Daniel
With Mila — 8h 45m
Jul 7, 2019
Mac G
Jul 18, 2018
Melissa Rolland
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