Backpack to Grouse Lake

It is a 6 mile hike to Grouse Lake. You begin at the trailhead which is right by Damsite Campground at Upper Blue Lake. Park in the dirt parking area and then cross the metal footbridge, and you will see the trailhead marker on your left.

The trail takes you into the Mokelumne Wilderness. Follow the trail about 2 miles, through forests and meadows, and you will reach Granite Lake. This is a beautiful lake to camp at, enjoy a picnic, or take a swim in.

Continue on, and the trail will wind up a series of steep inclines. You will cross rocky slopes and grassy hillsides. Granted that there is no fog impeding your view, you will be met with stunning vistas.

As you approach Grouse Lake, the trail will begin a steep descent. The lake is at the bottom of the trail, surrounded by beautiful rocks and cliffs. There are plenty of places to set up camp around the lake and there are lots of areas to explore from your camp. Go for a dip, or sprawl out on the rocks and enjoy the mountain sunshine.

The stars are incredible at night, so once the sun sets, get nice and bundled and look up.

Directions: To get to the trailhead, take the Hope Valley Road off Highway 88 to Lower Blue Lake. Then, turn north and go all the way to the south end of Upper Blue Lake, where you will find a dirt parking lot and the trailhead.

The GPS coordinates for Upper Blue Lake Campground are: Latitude: N 38° 37' 46.6606", Longitude: W 119° 56' 20.7889"