Strenuous · 14 mi · 3,379 ft · 8–8½ hr + stops

The Jamison–Long Lake Loop joins the historic Johnsville side of the mountains with the alpine heart of the Lakes Basin. The route begins in mining country, follows the Jamison Creek drainage into the high country, and continues through a sweeping network of lakes, forest, granite, and mountain trails. This is a wonderfully ambitious way to experience two sides of the same landscape. Jamison Creek brings waterfalls, mining history, and intimate forest scenery; the Long Lake side opens into broad granite country beneath Mount Elwell.

The approach: Follow the Jamison–Long Lake Loop trailhead shown on AllTrails near Johnsville and Plumas-Eureka State Park.

Along the way: A sustained climb through the Jamison Creek drainage, historic mining traces, Little Jamison Falls, multiple alpine lakes, and a long connection through the Mount Elwell and Long Lake trail network. Expect numerous junctions and a mixture of forest, rocky trail, creekside terrain, and exposed high country.

Host tip: Pack for a complete day and give yourself permission to enjoy the water. Rock, Jamison, and Long Lakes are not merely landmarks along the route—they are some of the most rewarding places to stop, swim, eat lunch, and take in the high country.

Before you go: This is a complicated loop through an interconnected trail system. Download the exact AllTrails route rather than attempting to assemble it from shorter lake trails. Early-season snow, runoff, muddy crossings, mosquitoes, and fallen trees can slow progress considerably.

Route or area information: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/jamison-long-lake-loop

Details for your plan

Why go

Choose this loop when you want mining-country history, waterfalls, inviting alpine lakes, and the scale of a full mountain traverse in one demanding day.

From the Lodge

Approximately 25 to 35 minutes

The idea

Follow the Johnsville side of the mountains into the Lakes Basin.

Location

Johnsville & Lakes Basin

Keep exploring nearby

• Smith, Rock & Long Lake Circuit

• Mount Elwell Grand Loop