Inspiration Point (Lake Alpine)

Near: Ebbetts Pass
Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation: 7,300 to 7,900 ft
Vegetation: Pine forest
Last Visit: June 2018

A still-frozen Lake Alpine from Inspiration Point in February 2018

Inspiration point is a small high point overlooking Lake Alpine west of Ebbetts Pass on California Highway 4.  The hike up to the overlook is fairly easy.  The rocky ridge can be gained in under a mile from the trailhead, affording great views of Lake Alpine to the north and the Stanislaus National Forest to the south.  The broad plateau at the summit has fine views in all directions including east to the Pacific Crest south of Ebbetts Pass.  Lake Alpine is a great destination as well with good swimming, some small rocky islands to explore and small boats for rent at the Lake Alpine Lodge.

Rules

This trail is in the Stanislaus National Forest and skirts the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness.  There are no day use fees and dogs are allowed off leash under voice control.  Camp only in designated campgrounds around Lake Alpine (there are several).  If you want to camp in the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness an overnight permit is required and can be obtained from the Caleveras Ranger Station west of Lake Alpine on highway 4.  There don't appear to be any quotas but you have to show up at the ranger station during business hours.

Trailhead

The Chickaree day-use area at the east end of Lake Alpine.  Parking is free, but limited so you may need to park along highway 4 on busy summer days.

Route

CalTopo Map: https://caltopo.com/m/6NRC

From the Chickaree day-use area follow the the paved path east around the lake and across the footbridge over Silver Creek.  Hug the lake shore as you skirt Silver Valley Campground and continue on the narrow dirt trails across a small peninsula.  They'll take you to a larger trail marked with blue blazes that runs the length of Lake Alpine's south shore.  Look for a small sign about half a mile in pointing the way to Inspiration Point.  From there the trail climbs steadily and the trees open up just before you reach the saddle of a low ridge line.  The trail turns left here and becomes a bit more rocky as it climbs the ridge to a broad rocky hilltop with great views in all directions.

The Carson-Iceberg Wilderness from Inspiration Point, with the Dardenelles in the distance.