Cora Lakes Hike

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.
3.5-5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.5 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.
422 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

The Cora Lakes Hike is a scenic high-country adventure that exhibits the diversity and grandeur of the Sierra National Forest. From granite gardens, wildflower meadows, and conifer forests, this trek reveals several picture-perfect scenes—so don’t forget to charge your camera!

Guide-book quality info for over 8,000 trails

View Cora Lakes Hike on Map

View Map

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Cora Lakes Hike

The alpine terrain is waiting to be explored, and the Cora Lakes Trail is a great way to do it. Adventure the High Sierra, reveling in the beauty of the rolling mountains and lush vegetation as you climb. Note much of the path is exposed, so dress in layers and check the forecast! Additionally, there are several stream crossings, so be weary that your feet might get wet! When hiking in the winter months, be sure to strap on a pair of microspikes or snowshoes! Once your shoes and laced and your water bottle is filled, you are all set!

Embark on your adventure along the Cora Lakes Hike from the Isberg Trailhead. From here, venture north over Forest Route 5S30 and onto the Isberg Trail. Heading north, the path will track through the meadowlands and over several snowmelt streams. The further you climb into the wilderness you will enter a conifer forest, and the terrain will transform into granite—be sure to mind your footing as the rock can be slippery when wet. Nearing East Fork Granite Creek, the path will deliver you to an intersection. Maintain along the Isberg Trail, ultimately delivering you to the Cora Lakes.

Marvel in the beauty of the shimmering alpine lakes bounded by towering pines and the sights of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Rejuvenate your tired feet in the chilly waters, and when you are ready, retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Cora Lakes Hike Trailhead

The Cora Lakes Trail departs from the Isberg Trailhead off Forest Route 5S30.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping, wilderness permit required.

  • When to do

    March-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Cora Lakes Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Cora Lakes Hike Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Tours

Routes

Blogs