Nestled within California’s High Sierras, the secluded and untamed beauty of the unrivaled Virginia Lakes Chain of Lakes awaits exploration. Tucked along the picturesque Virginia Creek, these nine captivating lakes offer a pristine oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Most of these stunning alpine lakes require a peaceful hike, ensuring a serene and undisturbed experience. Virginia Creek gracefully flows, making it impossible for boats to disturb six of these idyllic lakes. The remaining three lakes are open to paddlers of canoes, kayaks, row boats, and trolling motors, with their tranquil waters covering no more than 100 acres each. Visitors are welcomed by a flourishing wildlife habitat, breathtaking mountain vistas, vibrant wildflowers dancing in the wind, and the grace of lake trout gliding beneath the surface. Hikers often find themselves drawn to casting a line or teasing a fly in the inviting waters as they traverse the trail. The entire Virginia Lakes Basin is nestled within the Toiyabe National Forest, its enchanting landscape guarded by the imposing Dunderberg Peak and Black Mountain. Adventurous souls seeking remote wilderness can venture from the local trails to access Yosemite National Park, embarking on an unforgettable backcountry journey. Backcountry camping is available along the trails, and the appropriate National Forest permit is required from the Ranger’s Station in Bridgeport. The upper lakes within the Hoover Wilderness Area demand a permit for hiking to ensure responsible exploration. To protect the trails from overuse, backpacking permits are limited and issued on a quota basis from the last Friday of June to September 15th. As the elevation rises along the 6.6-mile trail, reaching 1,270 feet, hikers are surrounded by groves of aspens and lodgepole pines that paint the landscape in a tapestry of autumn hues. A sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts, the lower lakes draw a larger crowd than their secluded counterparts higher up the trail. Trumbull Lake, the easternmost of the nine lakes, hosts a US Forest Service campground managed by a private firm, offering a peaceful retreat beneath the towering lodgepole pines. The campground, with 45 campsites, provides essential amenities such as grills, picnic tables, vault toilets, drinking water, and campfire rings. Campers are advised to secure reservations in advance for peak weekends, with half of the sites available for booking and the remaining slots open for first-come, first-served occupancy. A scenic hundred-yard stroll from the campground unveils a longstanding resort perched by the tranquil waters of Little Virginia Lake. Established in the 1920s, the resort is a beloved sanctuary for hikers, hunters, fly fishermen, and vacationers seeking solace in nature’s embrace. Holidaymakers parked at the lodge embark on expeditions to explore Little Virginia Lake and Big Virginia Lake, revealing a network of interconnected water bodies that includes Trumbull Lake, Red Lake, Blue Lake, Cooney Lake, Moat Lake, and the charming Frog Lakes. Hikers will find themselves on a strenuous and beautiful creekside walk that passes through groves home to brown trout, rainbow trout, and eastern brook trout. The Bridgeport Fish Enhancement Program protects and preserves the last remaining golden trout in the watershed, which are found in Moat Lake, a priceless gem among the lakes. This program, backed by local businesses and residents, ensures the lakes teem with trout, stocking brown trout weekly during summer and introducing trophy-size trout monthly. Anglers gather for the two annual fishing tournaments organized by the group, casting their lines in the serene waters of these lakes while embracing the pristine wilderness surrounding them. Virginia Lakes might not be home to a bustling town, but a small community blossoms east of Trumbull Lake, affectionately referred to by the lake’s name. Several enclaves of private RV sites have sprouted in this community, offering a retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life near nature’s tranquility. Local businesses provide essentials, while an outfitter caters to outdoor enthusiasts, supplying backpacking gear and guided hikes to explore the breathtaking landscapes. Although Virginia Lakes holds its distinct charm, it is inherently linked to Bridgeport, Mono County’s seat, located 20 miles to the north. Bridgeport is a hub for tourism and outdoor activities, offering over 500 miles of trails catering to diverse interests such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog-sledding, and snowmobiling. Bridging heritage with adventure, Bridgeport invites visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the Blue Meadow, Virginia Lakes Road, Buckeye, the Sweetwater Range, and Summers Meadows, unveiling a tapestry of experiences awaiting exploration. The allure of Virginia Lakes transcends seasons, drawing visitors year-round to revel in the beauty of nature’s tapestry. The Bridgeport Reservoir, an angler’s paradise, beckons fishing enthusiasts with its bountiful waters. A rich tapestry of events, from the old-fashioned Fourth of July Festival to exciting rodeos and marathons, promises entertainment for all ages. Adventure-seekers can delve into the history of the gold rush era at Bodie State Historical Park, marvel at the ethereal Mono Lake, explore the wonders of Mammoth Lakes, or venture slightly further to the iconic Yosemite National Park. A diverse array of lodging options, including private cabins, bed and breakfast inns, resorts, and motels, complemented by many delightful dining establishments, ensure a comfortable stay for all visitors. If camping under the stars isn’t your preference, Bridgeport offers an excellent alternative, serving as a gateway to the boundless adventure that awaits in the surrounding national forests. While real estate within the boundaries of Virginia Lakes remains unavailable, prospective buyers may discover housing opportunities in the neighboring community east of Trumbull Lake or along US 395. Those seeking paradise may stumble upon property or charming vacation cabins in these areas, offering a tranquil retreat amidst nature’s embrace. Virginia Lakes beckons as an idyllic destination for a weekend escape, inviting guests to partake in the tranquility of its small lakes and the grandeur of its majestic peaks, weaving unforgettable memories sure to adorn any vacation album. Prepare to reel in a few trout, commune with nature, and embark on an unforgettable journey along the Virginia Lakes Trail.