Last October, we went on a road trip to see the fall foliage in the Eastern Sierras and the June Lake Loop was the highlight of the trip. From the creeks, rivers, alpine lakes, waterfalls to the majestic mountains, we stopped our car almost every 1/2 mile to take in the scenery. It takes you beside 4 crystal blue alpine lakes, towering granite peaks, and through groves of aspen that are radiant this time of year.This is definitely a California treasure year round, but in the fall it’s just breathtaking.
Where is June Lake Loop
The June Lake Loop, a 16-mile scenic drive on State Route 158 in Northern California, is often compared to Switzerland in its beauty. It’s located on the southern edge of the Mono Basin, 12.5 miles south of Lee Vining.The June Lake Loop is located in California, USA. Here is the location on Google Maps
How long does it take to drive the June Lake Loop
The June Lakes Loop drive is about 20 to 25 minutes and is only about 15 miles long. The loop is a two-lane, paved road (CA158) through Inyo National Forest and passes four mountain lakes with beaches, a ski area, several campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads for hiking. The majority of visitors will need at least a couple of hours to venture outside, snap pictures, and take in the scenery.
For the latest Fall Color Reports
It is so important to do some research beforehand so that you know exactly when to go. Fall colors appear and disappear so quickly.
The website California Fall Color is an amazing resource if you live in California and are on a hunt to see fall colors. They provide up-to-date information on the best spots for fall foliage in California.
June Lake Loop Fall Road Trip
Stop 1: June Lake
The first lake you’ll encounter (if you’re starting at the southern entrance of the loop) is June Lake, the largest of the four lakes on the loop. Nestled amidst towering granite cliffs, June Lake offers a serene and picturesque setting. As you approach the lake, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the surrounding mountains, painted in hues of gold, orange, and crimson.
Relax on the sandy beach on June Lake. June Lake has the softest, clearest sand in the Eastern Sierras. The beach along the east side of the lake holds soft sand and a swimming area
Explore the numerous hiking trails that surround June Lake. Popular options include the June Lake Loop Trail, which offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area, and the Cathedral Lakes Trail, a challenging hike that rewards you with stunning views of Cathedral Lakes.
Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the calm waters of June Lake at your own pace.
Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely meal by the lake
Camp at June Lake Campground, this campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins.
Related Reads: 7 Beautiful Fall Destinations in Northern California
Stop 2: Gull Lake
The next stop is Gull Lake, a smaller and more intimate lake that offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. Surrounded by towering pines and aspens, Gull Lake is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Explore the hiking trails that surround Gull Lake, including the Gull Lake Loop Trail and the Silver Lake Trail.
Shop at the little mountain town and support small businesses. Grab some warm beverages and a warm treat and enjoy what the tiny village has to offer.
Gull Lake is known to have the best trout so itis a great place to catch trout and other freshwater fish.
Camping at Gull Lake Campground is magical. There are Lots of trees and willows offer great shade and privacy between sites. The campsite offers a flush toilet but no RV hook ups. It is open from the last weekend in April until November 1, but does not take reservations.
Related Reads: The Best Stops on Highway 1
Stop 3: Silver Lake
Next up, we’ll visit Silver Lake, which might be my favorite spot for fall foliage along this drive. There’s a small pull-off at the southern end of the lake with a stunning aspen grove.
This section of the loop offers some of the most scenic driving, with quaking aspen trees lining the road and glowing in the autumn sun.
At the north end is the historic Silver Lake Resort, a popular fishing retreat since 1916. In addition to great fishing and boating, Silver Lake is a starting point for hiking trails like Rush Creek Trail, which leads to alpine lakes and even connects to the John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail.
Related Reads: Best Fall Weekend Getaway in Lake Tahoe
Stop 4: Grant Lake
Our last stop is Grant Lake, the largest of the four lakes and a reservoir in the Los Angeles Aqueduct System. Grant Lake is known for having some of the largest rainbow trout in the region.
Located eight miles from the bustling June Lake, Grant Lake’s shores are less forested, so it’s not the best place for fall foliage. However, it offers stunning views of 12,000-foot Mount Wood and the High Sierra.
A fall kayak adventure on Grant Lake would be a great idea for those who love to be on the water. Grant Lake has a minimal amount of boat traffic and is often deserted unless there is a fishing contest.
June Lake Loop Drive Things to Know
- There is no entrance fee to take the scenic drive but campgrounds and day-use areas may charge a fee.
- We stayed in an Airbnb in June Lake and it was the perfect stay to see the area
- Whether you take the loop coming from the north or south on 395 just do it. The road is easy to drive and you will see an astounding area with mountains, lakes, forest, desert, wildlife, birds, vegetation that runs the gambit, quaint towns and isolated homesteads, vistas and valleys where mountains dwarf you
- Always check the weather forecast and the fall color report
- There will be lots of lots of “Kodak” moments so prepare your camera and your smile
- The route takes you through a number of small communities, June lake being the largest. We stopped here for snacks, lunch and more coffee
- It is free to go in all lakes!
- Bring your kayak and go for a paddle, there are several lakes to dip in. And there are lots of day hikes, be prepared for trails that go UP because the loop is surrounded by the high rising eastern Sierra peaks!
- We always have lunch at Eagle Landing Resort restaurant when I visit, and get a day pass to their pool and spa
- Silver Lake – least favorite. Silver lake is mostly for fishermen
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