← EXPLORE THE LOST SIERRA
Lakes Basin to Graeagle
A real alpine objective. About 13.7 mi point to point; Expert · physically hard.
LOCAL PHOTOGRAPH / THE LOST SIERRA
This backcountry line crosses rugged high terrain before descending toward Graeagle. Lakes and enormous views share the day with loose rock, steep pitches, exposure, and hike-a-bike.
Distance: About 13.7 mi point to point
Effort: Expert · physically hard
Climbing/descending: About 2,100 ft up / 4,300 ft down
Allow: 4–6 hr
From the Lodge: 25–35 min + vehicle staging
Bike: Mountain bike for technical terrain
Plan: Start at the mapped Round Lake approach and plan the exact Graeagle finish and vehicle retrieval before riding. Different Mount Elwell itineraries have very different distances; use the map for this specific alignment.
Host tip: Give the route the time and supplies of a full mountain day. Leave room for difficult sections and mechanical delays.
Before you ride: Expert riding and navigation. Confirm legal connectors and current conditions; this is not a smooth downhill substitute.
Details for your plan
Area
Lakes Basin to Graeagle
Type of outing
Mountain biking
The idea
A real alpine objective.
A day worth going out for. A place worth coming home to.
Five bedrooms. Three bathrooms. Up to ten overnight guests. Make the Lodge your shared home base near Portola and Graeagle.
Take a look around the Lodge ↗
Browse trip guides ↗