| About Tahoe National Forest |
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| Deer Lake Trail |
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Difficulty:
More Difficult
Elevation Gain:
1,030 Feet
Ending Elevation:
7,110 Feet
Length, One-way:
2.5 Miles
USGS Map:
Sierra City 7.5'
Beginning Elevation:
6,080 Feet
Reservation:
No
Season:
June - October
From Sierra City, Travel 5 miles east on Hwy. #49, turn left onto Gold Lake Hwy. at Bassetts Station. Continue for approximately 1.4 miles and turn left at the bridge across Salmon Creek. Continue for about 0.3 miles and turn right onto Packer Lake Road. The trail starts approximately 2 miles up Packer Lake Road on the right. The trailhead is marked with a large sign reading "Deer Lake Trail 12E02." There is ample parking for vehicles and trailers in the Packsaddle camping area just opposite the trailhead.
Location Information
Deer Lake Trail is a very difficult 2.5 mile trail at an elevation of 6,080 feet. This trail offers a panoramic view of the massive Sierra Buttes and the surrounding timbered slopes. A variety of plants, wildflowers, birds and wildlife abounds. Approximately 1.5 miles from the trailhead you will see a sign reading "Grass Lake 1/4" pointing to your right. The short detour to this small, tranquil lake is recommended. When approached quietly, deer will often be seen grazing on its shore. Deer Lake, another mile along the main trail, is a beautiful lake with an unusually deep blue color and an excellent place for picnicking and fishing. Deer Lake is one of the few bodies of water where the wary eastern brook trout are caught.Shortly before reaching Deer Lake you will reach a saddle where the trail merges with the Upper Salmon Lake Trail. Hikers may wish to make the 0.75 mile detour to Horse Lake and Upper Salmon Lake beyond, arranging transportation from the Upper Salmon Lake trailhead.
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