A tranquil reservoir formed by the construction of the Lake Alpine Dam across Silver Creek, Lake Alpine lies tucked away in the High Sierra mountains of California. As part of the Upper Utica Project, this charming lake is overseen by the Northern California Power Agency (NCPA) and functions as a basin for storage and water regulation for hydroelectric power generating downstream. The expansive 898,099-acre Stanislaus National Forest surrounds the lake on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The US Forest Service has established multiple camping areas along the lake’s perimeter.
Located just a hundred miles east of Stockton and Sacramento, Lake Alpine is a favored destination for a weekend getaway filled with fishing, hiking, and stargazing by campfires. Multiple campgrounds, such as Silver Valley Campground, Pine Marten Campground, and Lake Alpine Campground, dot the lake’s shore, offering picnic tables, water, flush toilets, and sandy beaches. The campgrounds can accommodate RVs and are perfect for a family-friendly outdoor experience. For those planning a backpacking adventure, the primitive Backpackers Campground at the east end of the lake allows one-night stays to facilitate early starts for day-long treks into the surrounding forested mountains.
The Bear Valley to Lake Alpine Trail, a four-mile path suitable for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, meanders through the scenic landscape. A portion of this trail, near the east end of the lake, is paved and wheelchair-accessible. Shorter trails lead to Inspiration Point, which boasts beautiful views. The most spectacular section of the Pacific Crest Trail is reachable from the neighboring Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway.
A day-use area at the lake’s east end caters to visitors looking to swim and picnic. A commercial resort along the north side provides rental cabins, a store, a restaurant, a boat launch, and boat and canoe rentals. Fishing enthusiasts flock to Lake Alpine for its regularly stocked rainbow trout and brown bullnose catfish. The lake remains a peaceful fishing haven with a 10 HP speed limit on boats and a motor ban at night. Anglers should check with the local ranger station for any special fishing regulations.
The beauty of Lake Alpine extends into winter, with nearby areas offering excellent opportunities for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. A groomed trail connects the Lake Alpine Sno Park to Bear Valley Village, perfect for snowmobile enthusiasts. The 61-mile Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway crosses the 8,700-foot Ebbetts Pass and winds through some of the most picturesque and pristine regions of the Sierra Nevada. It has been designated as a National Scenic Byway since 2005.
Visitors to Lake Alpine can explore two nearby historic and natural sites at each end of the Scenic Byway: Grover Hot Springs State Park and Calaveras Big Trees State Park. Numerous year-round activities are available in this historically significant and scenic location, including hiking, biking, fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and exploring limestone caverns.
Non-camping visitors will find a range of accommodations nearby, from contemporary hotels and Victorian inns to guest ranches, bed & breakfasts, cottages, and ski chalets. Particularly in the off-season, private rentals are frequently offered. With its unique combination of visual splendor, recreational options, and proximity to historical and scenic monuments, Lake Alpine ensures visitors will have an unforgettable time.
