Hard · 6.9 mi · 1,883 ft · 4–4½ hr + stops

Bear Lakes and Mount Elwell is one of the best “everything in one hike” adventures in the Lakes Basin. The loop passes Big Bear Lake, Little Bear Lake, Silver Lake, and Long Lake before climbing through rugged high-country terrain to the summit of Mount Elwell. The AllTrails route includes the out-and-back summit spur, but hikers can omit it for a shorter four-lake circuit. The lakes provide a beautiful progression through forest and granite, while the summit delivers sweeping views across the Lakes Basin, Sierra Buttes, Sierra Valley, and the distant peaks of the northern Sierra.

The approach: Long Lake and Bear Lakes Loop Trailhead off Gold Lake Highway. Free parking and vault toilets are available.

Along the way: The loop winds among Big Bear, Little Bear, Silver, and Long Lakes before beginning its sustained climb toward Mount Elwell. The upper mountain includes exposed granite, loose talus, steep ridgelines, and a short rocky scramble to the summit. The reward is a remarkable 360-degree view across the surrounding lakes and mountains.

Host tip: Start early enough to enjoy both halves of the experience. Reach Mount Elwell before afternoon weather develops, then choose one of the lakes for lunch or a refreshing swim on the return. Long Lake is the largest and most dramatic, while the smaller Bear Lakes offer a more intimate alpine setting.

Before you go: This is a genuinely hard hike despite its moderate mileage. Sturdy footwear and confident footing are important on the loose, rocky summit terrain. Bring plenty of water, food, sun protection, and layers for sudden changes in mountain weather. Snow may remain near the summit into early summer. AllTrails identifies this as a dog-friendly route with dogs kept on leash.

Route or area information: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/bear-lakes-and-mount-elwell

Details for your plan

Why go

Choose Bear Lakes and Mount Elwell when you want alpine lakes and a true mountain summit in the same hike. It offers considerably more variety than a direct summit climb while remaining manageable as a challenging half-day adventure.

From the Lodge

Approximately 30 to 40 minutes

The idea

Four lakes and an exposed summit in one challenging mountain loop.

Keep exploring nearby

• Round & Silver Lakes Loop

• Mount Elwell Grand Loop