Dinkey Lakes Trail

Explore the backcountry along the Dinkey Lakes Trail. This high sierra hike boasts wonderful views of the glittering alpine lakes, the granite mountains, and lush woodlands. Though shaded in sections, much of the trail is also exposed—so check the forecast and prepare accordingly! Additionally, the road up to the trailhead is rough and rugged, so a vehicle with high ground clearance and a 4-wheel drive is recommended. Additionally, sections of the path are rocky and uneven, so wear a pair of sturdy footwear to safeguard your ankles! Though not necessary, a trail GPS will come in handy, especially in the winter months when the terrain is snow-packed.

Setting out from the trailhead, the Dinkey Lakes Trail follows the rightmost route signposted as the Dinkey Lakes Trail. Passing a charming snow-melt cascade, the path will soon guide you into the forestlands and over Dinkey Creek. Continue hiking this path over several streams, and you will eventually reach an intersection. Here, keep left along the Dinkey Creek Trail to First Dinkey Lake. Admire the sights, then track southeast to another junction. Take a sharp right here onto Mystery Lake Trail. Now trekking west, you will pass South Lake, Swede Lake, and then onto Mystery Lake. Revel in the beauty of the shimmering alpine lake, then continue along the Mystery Lake Trail.

At the route’s end, you will reconnect with the Dinkey Lakes Trail, head west, retracing your footing along the path to the bridge over Dinkey Creek. Here, take the rightmost, more primitive route down past a small cascade and back to the trailhead.