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A short, easy hike on the PCT with amazing views that leads to a huge, blue lake.


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Map Key

4.1

Miles

6.5

KM

Out and Back

8,857' 2,700 m

High

8,632' 2,631 m

Low

483' 147 m

Up

482' 147 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

12%

Max Grade (7°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fishing · Lake · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers

Family Friendly Short and moderately easy; nice for either a day hike or a backcountry trip.

Overview

There are many ponds on the way to Upper Kinney Lake, but these are all small and dirty. Make sure to go the whole two miles and stop at Upper Kinney instead - it is much nicer.

Description

Take the road from the Ebbetts Pass parking lot to the junction with the PCT. Make sure to turn right (across the road), going left will lead to Noble Lake. After hiking a bit and then crossing the road, the trail starts to slope up steeply. This is only temporary - after a few minutes, the grade flattens out. Follow the trail around Ebbetts Peak (with the flag on top), and pass a few small ponds. Continue straight, and eventually you'll reach Upper Kinney Lake.

This lake makes a nice day trip, run or backcountry hike with younger kids. It is much nicer than Noble Lake, but without the amazing vistas of surrounding peaks. Because the lake is only two miles from the parking lot, an inflatable tube or kayak can be carried to the lake without much difficulty.

Shared By:

Brady L

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 2 votes

#3888

Overall
  4.0 from 2 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#555

in California

#3,888

Overall
3 Views Last Month
855 Since Jul 27, 2020
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Lower Kinney Lake and the (smoke filled) Carson River Valley.
Jun 13, 2021 near South L…, CA
Sunrise over Ebbetts Pass
Jun 13, 2021 near South L…, CA
Ebbetts Peak
Jun 13, 2021 near South L…, CA
Go straight for Upper Kinney Lake.
Jul 27, 2020 near South L…, CA

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