Wheeler Lake Hike

Route Description for Wheeler Lake Hike

Explore the high country along the Wheeler Lake Hike. This scenic adventure boasts impressive vistas of the High Sierra from atop the divide before indulging in the sights of the shimmering alpine pool. You might even see some cows grazing in the meadowlands if you are lucky. Climbing through the woodlands and above the treeline, we encourage you to dress in layers as insurance against ever-changing conditions. Additionally, much of the route travels over rocky, uneven terrain, so wear a comfy pair of footwear to protect your ankles!

Embark on your journey along the Wheeler Lake Hike from the Pack Trailhead off State Route 4. From here, hike north through the Woodchuck Basin Campground. This path will guide you up a gulch along a snowmelt stream. Mind your footing on the rocky terrain as you ascend the route up to the divide. From atop Wheeler Ridge, you will be granted amazing views of Mount Reba, Mokelumne River Canyon, Lake Alpine, and numerous other summits. Here, keep right, and you will be diverted onto the Wheeler Lake Trail.

This route will guide you down the pass and into a meadow which is sometimes decorated with grazing cattle. Continue hiking, and you will ultimately reach Wheeler Lake. Admire the picture-perfect scene of the alpine lake, and when you are ready, retrace your footing along the path back to the trailhead.