Moderate · 5.4 mi · 840 ft · 2½–3½ hr

This lightly traveled loop explores the wooded side of the Lakes Basin, following portions of Gray Eagle and Smith creeks before connecting through quiet forest roads and trails. Rather than building toward one dramatic destination, the pleasure comes from shade, flowing water, wildflowers, and a sense of having the woods largely to yourself.

The approach: Begin from the Gray Eagle Creek trail access near Gold Lake Highway. Use downloaded navigation for the final approach and the loop itself.

Along the way: Forest trail, old roads, several junctions, creek crossings, and occasional sections where the route is not obvious. The scenery is gentle and immersive rather than dominated by a single viewpoint.

Host tip: Download the map and treat this as a slow forest ramble. Pause near the creeks, listen for birds, and look for seasonal wildflowers rather than measuring the hike only by its destination.

Before you go: Creek levels can complicate early-season crossings, and fallen trees may occasionally alter the route. Mosquitoes can be abundant near water.

Route or area information: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/gray-eagle-creek-and-smith-creek-loop

Details for your plan

Why go

Choose this loop when you want solitude and forest immersion rather than a busy lake trail. It is particularly inviting on a warm day when shaded creek corridors are more appealing than exposed granite.

From the Lodge

Approximately 25–35 minutes by car

The idea

Shade, flowing water, and the woods as the destination.

Keep exploring nearby

• Portola “P” Hike

• Eureka Lake Trail