Lake of the Woods

The tree- and boulder-encircled lake with Crystal Range's Pyramid Peak in the background

El Dorado County's Desolation Wilderness in California is a federally protected wilderness area with many waterfalls and alpine lakes. Lake of the Woods is one of them. This lake at the bottom of a glacier-scoured basin is accessible via the Pacific Crest Trail from the Echo Lakes by taking an Echo-Lake-Chalet-operated water taxi to the upper lake pier or by hiking 2.5 additional miles (one-way) above these lakes and then entering the Desolation Wilderness. Lake of the Woods is located between Tamarack Lake and the larger Lake Aloha. What about the woods? They include western white pine, lodgepole pine and mountain hemlock—species that endure a life on and between granite rocks. Heather is growing around the boulders and pebbles. For a dip or summer swim, carefully slide down the polished granite surface into the cold and clear water. Numerous campsites invite backpackers to stay at the lake. Overnighters may get their camping permit from the Lake Tahoe Visitor Center (or want to visit the Desolation Wilderness Permit website for further information and planning). Day-hikers should self-register at the Echo Lake trailhead.