Backpack to Eagle Lake and Dick's Lake

Get ready to get your lake on! This backpacking trip will take you 13+ miles through awesome scenery to several alpine lakes.

Starting at the Bayview Campground, off of HWY 89, this hike follows the Granite Lake Trail along a difficult climb. Don't let the climb discourage you! As you climb, the views keep getting better better. After 1 mile of climbing, you will reach a nice place to rest. The views from here of Emerald Bay Lake Tahoe are incredible! Be sure to take a breather here as you will continue to climb for another mile.

After the first 2 miles you will reach the top of the climbing section and be rewarded with an amazing view with Eagle Lake below and to the right. At the junction in the trail, turn right to follow the trail down to Eagle Lake. This will be your first night of camp!

After your first night at Eagle Lake, you'll hike back up and out (the ascent is difficult) and make your way to the trail junction for Velma Lakes. Here, you will follow the sign to Dick's Lake. It's a pretty serious climb to Dick's Lake so be sure to fuel up! You will hike through scenic meadows, towering granite cliffs and tiny alpine lakes. This is probably the prettiest part of the hike so be sure to stop and enjoy it! Once you reach Dick's Lake, choose a campsite on the east side of the lake. The sunsets are great and there are less bugs. Enjoy a quick swim in the freezing waters of Dick's Lake, explore the shoreline and chill.

After a relaxing night, retrace your steps back to the Velma Lakes Trail junction, then finally to the Granite Lake trailhead. The hike out is about 5 miles and mostly downhill.