There are two Blue Lakes; Upper Blue Lake and Lower Blue Lake. Upper Blue Lake doesn't have the appeal that Lower Blue Lake has, so for this reason alone, most activity is on the lower gem. A road official steered us toward it one Saturday while we sat in the car awaiting the blasting of mountain rock, at the top of a pass on highway 88. Kayaks tied onto the carrier, we were eager to get them wet. When the official indicated that we could be in the water within a half an hour if interested in discovering a new lake, we were all ears.
This outstanding lake in Northern California is approximately 22 miles from Carson City/Minden, Nevada, when following Hwy. 88 and making the turn onto Blue Lakes Rd. There are other Blue Lakes in California. This lake is in Alpine County. The lake reaches an elevation of 8,000 feet, so make sure you are comfortable with high elevation. There are several mini-islands speckled throughout, along with avenues of grassy lake weeds. The greenery adds charm. Because the lake is in the mountains, the water is cold. If swimming is your thing, check out the Northern bank where the water is shallow and a bit warmer. Note: The shoreline is quite rocky and maintaining solid footing is difficult in most places. Grab a kayak, canoe, fishing boat, or sit along the shore and listen to the quiet sounds of nature. The lake is small, peaceful, and uncrowded. In fact, one time we were scolded by some fishermen who thought our kayaks floating through the water were too noisy. Clearly, they were on the wrong lake. Anger doesn't belong there.
Take your lunch with you, and climb up on top of the massive boulders bordering the roadside of the lake. Sit and enjoy the air and watery view. It will do wonders for your digestion. Steps away is a forested area if you feel like hiking a bit. I will warn you, there are many boulders alongside the road. Stay alert and prepare for wildlife. This is their home. It is always a good idea to buddy-up when hiking in the woods.
You may be happy to know that there are nice bathroom stations on site which P.G. & E. maintains. Dress for cooler mornings and evenings, but expect mild weather during the main part of the day in summer months. As with most mountain lakes, the wind can stir things up at times. The water is normally the calmest in the morning with breezes kicking up in the afternoon some days.
Only small boats are allowed, with access from unimproved ramps. Among the recreation possibilities are fishing (rainbow trout), picnicking, hiking, backpacking, and even mountain biking. I believe there is a swimming area on the Northern shore where the lake is more shallow.
Sorenson's Resort (never been there) is close by which offers cabins, a restaurant, and a grocery store. Hope Valley Resort has campsites for tents and R.V.s with reservations. Call for current fees. Hiking is also available on the Pacific Crest Trail and others in the Mokelumne Wilderness nearby. Enjoy!
