Upper Sardine offers the swimming day that Lower Sardine does not. A short, uneven climb above the lower lake reaches clear water and a close view of the Sierra Buttes. Bring lunch and a towel, find a comfortable granite spot, and let the lake be more than a turnaround photo.

At the water: Swim from a suitable natural entry, picnic, or bring a compact fishing setup. There is no conventional launch or rental operation. Most guests will enjoy this more with a light hiking pack than a large paddleboard to carry.

Getting there: Begin near Lower Sardine Lake and follow the rocky road and trail uphill. Walking distance depends on where you can legally park; plan on roughly 1½–2½ miles round trip. Do not assume the rough upper road suits a passenger car.

Host tip: Save enough time for a long lakeside pause. The swim and the view are the point of the climb.

Before you go: The road is seasonal and rough. Download directions, expect cold water and limited cell service, and check current access before leaving.

Details for your plan

Type of outing

Hike to the water

From the Lodge

About 1–1½ hours to the access area

Getting started

About 1½–2½ miles round trip

Swimming

Alpine swimming beneath the Buttes

Paddling

Primarily a hike & swim destination

The idea

A rocky climb, a granite perch, and a spectacular mountain swim.

Keep exploring nearby

• Lower Sardine Lake

• Upper & Lower Salmon Lakes