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    Hikes/United States/California/Stanislaus National Forest

    Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake

    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.
    3-4.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    13.4 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.
    295 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    The Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake is a beautiful hike within the bounds of the Stanislaus National Forest. This scenic path travels through meadowlands dotted with cattle and through lush woodlands before opening to the alpine lake bound by granite bluffs. We love this hike, and you will too.

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    Route Description for Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake

    Hiking the Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake makes for an incredible day of trekking. Enjoy the alpine scenery as you wander through the High Country, and if you have the gear, camp overnight alongside the shimmering lake. Note that the terrain is rocky and uneven, so a sturdy pair of footwear will make a difference. Additionally, when walking in the warmer weather, bring some bug spray!

    Setting out from the Crabtree Trailhead, the Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake Hike follows the Crab Tree Trail. The initial segment of the trek travels south, steeply climbing through the thinning forestlands and over a snowmelt stream. Don’t let the intensity deter you; the path will soon plateau. The route will divert you east, and the incline will become more gradual. Passing Camp Lake, you will confront an intersection. At this point, you will want to veer left onto the Bear Lake Trail. Wander this path northeast up to Bear Lake.

    Marvel in the beauty of the crystalline lake bounded by granite bluffs and verdant conifers. After admiring the postcard-perfect scenery, retrace your footing along the route back to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake Trailhead

    The Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake departs from the Crabtree Trailhead off Crabtree Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Backcountry Camping, wilderness permit required.

    • When to do

      April-September

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake Elevation Graph

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    Crabtree Trail to Bear Lake Reviews

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