Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4.5-6.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
15.6 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
627 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail is an ideal adventure for intermediate hikers and families with older children. The high country is awaiting your exploration, and this hike is a great way to do just that! Hike through forested valleys and alpine meadows up to the crystalline lake.

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Route Description for Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail

Immerse yourself in the Trinity Alps Wilderness along the Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail. This scenic adventure travels along the pictures gurgling creek, through diverse terrains up to the shimmering lake. In the summer months, this lake boasts the perfect opportunity to cool off after a tiring trek. The initial segment of the trail is well signposted, but the rearmost section demands navigational skills or a trail GPS! Though this route is open and accessible year-round, we encourage you to head out in the summer when the wildflowers are vibrant and the vegetation is lush.

Embark on your adventure along the Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail from the trailhead. Setting out from here, you will follow the Swift Creek Trail northwest along Swift Creek. Enjoy the sounds of the gurgling waters as you wander parallel to the creek. Eventually, you will reach an intersection, veer left here, and you will be diverted onto the Granite Lake Trail over a footbridge and along Granite Creek.

Follow this path higher into the alpine terrain, and you will ultimately arrive at Granite Lake. Admire the scene of the emerald-hued waters bounded by impressive granite cliffs of Gibson Peak. Marvel in the scenery, dip your tired feet in the chilly alpine waters, then retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail Trailhead

The Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail departs from the trailhead off Swift Creek Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping, permits required from either the Weaverville or Shasta Lake Ranger Stations.

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail Elevation Graph

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Granite Lake via Swift Creek Trail Reviews

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