Hike To Bull Run Lake

The hike to Bull Run Lake is about 7.8 miles, roundtrip, and begins at the Stanislaus Meadows Trailhead, located about 10 miles West of Ebbetts Pass. There is plenty of parking near the trailhead, off of the South side of CA 4. The trailhead GPS coordinates are: N38 30.376' / W119 56/617'

Once you head out from the parking lot, the actual Stanislaus Meadows Trailhead is a ways down the path. The trail starts out relatively flat. It winds through meadows and forests. About 1/8 of a mile past the Stanislaus Meadows Trailhead sign you will start to hear running water. Veer off the trail to the left, if you'd like, for a quick detour and you will see a creek cascading over some rocks. There are some great swimming holes in there if you (or your dog) need to cool off.

Continue on the main trail and you will eventually come upon a sign telling you that you are entering the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness. Keep on the official trail, bearing right towards the South.

The path will begin its ascent up a canyon. This part is relatively steep. You will hear and see a creek off to the right as you make the climb up the canyon. The wildflowers here are beautiful!

You'll come to a sign post where you can either go left towards Mosquito Lake, or right towards Bull Run Lake. Keep right. There is another steep, 300-foot climb, and the trail can be unclear at times. But it is easy to pick it back up again.

You'll come around the top of a ridge and find yourself on the shores of Bull Run Lake, near a small granite island. Set up camp in one of the designated campsites near the lake, or just hang out for the afternoon and go for a swim. It's a beautiful spot!