In the mid-1800s, hundreds of thousands of emigrants crossed the Sierra heading to California gold fields or farms. Today, we drive over the passes in cars on paved roads, but back then, it was slow going wagons on rough dirt trails. Many of those original wagon routes are long gone, but some remnants remain. You can channel your inner pioneer while riding the Emigrant Lake Trail, which is part of the California National Historic Trail.
The Emigrant Lake Trail begins at Caples Lake right off Highway 88. Caples was a well documented resting spot for travelers on the historic California Trail; today it is a popular recreation spot. The trail begins by following just above the shoreline of Caples Lake, through a forest of aspen, red fir, and lodgepole pine. It is relatively easy to get off the trail to access the water.
The trail leaves Caples and heads into the Mokulmne Wilderness. There is a signed trail intersection about 1.2 mile in. Continue straight to head to Emigrant Lake or turn to follow the Historic Emigrant Trail. There are some seasonal creeks (dry in fall) and the trail climbs through small meadows and outcroppings of granite boulders. As you climb, you get great views of Caples below and the surrounding mountain peaks.
It is 4.5 miles one way from the trailhead to Emigrant Lake, a small granite ringed lake formed by glaciers. From here you can see Covered Wagon Peak and Thimble Peak (a volcanic vent). There are brook trout in the lake, making this a nice fishing spot. There is another intersection about a mile before you get to Emigrant Lake. If you don’t want to do an out and back from Emigrant Lake, you can take the other trail here which leads to Kirkwood Meadows and then connects to the Historic Emigrant Trail.
The Emigrant Lake Trail (and Historic Emigrant Trail) would be far less technical if it were maintained. However, as it is, the trail has a lot of downed trees, exposed roots, erosion, loose rocks, narrow squeezes, and granite to navigate. It is overgrown and difficult to follow in some places. This is a ride for savvy horses and riders. Hoof boots or shoes are recommended.
There is little to no cell service here so have maps downloaded in advance. You can expect to see hikers and dogs on the trail.
Getting Here
Where to Park: The Caples Lake parking lot is on the west edge of the lake. Look for the sign. There is a dirt pullout on one side of the parking lot that can fit a couple small rigs. The trailhead is at the back of the parking lot, near the restrooms.
