East Lake Trail

Overview

A true backcountry gem, the East Lake Trail is a steep spur off the Bubbs Creek corridor that climbs into a classic Sierra granite cirque beneath Mount Brewer. Most hikers reach it as part of a multi-day trip from Road’s End: you’ll follow the Bubbs Creek Trail (the southern leg of the Rae Lakes system) to Junction Meadow, then take the East Lake spur. The spur itself is about 3.4 miles one way with roughly 1,877 feet of gain; the full approach from Road’s End to East Lake is roughly 13–14 miles one way, so this is best planned as an overnight or 2–3 day outing rather than a casual day hike.

Route and Stats

From Road’s End in Cedar Grove, head up the Bubbs Creek Trail. The first legal camping is at Sphinx Creek Junction about 4 miles in, with popular backcountry camps at Junction Meadow and near East Lake. From Junction Meadow, the East Lake spur climbs steadily up East Creek to the lake; strong parties can continue past East Lake to Lake Reflection for a jaw-dropping granite amphitheater and mirrorlike water. Length on the spur is 3.4 miles one way; expect sustained climbing and a rugged, wilderness singletrack surface of dirt and rock.

Scenery and Experience

The lower canyon features roaring Bubbs Creek, polished granite, and mixed conifer forest hemmed in by big canyon walls. The East Lake basin opens into broad meadows and cold, clear water with head-on views toward Mount Brewer, North Guard, and South Guard. Morning light here is especially photogenic, with alpenglow firing the high granite.

Difficulty and Who It’s For

As a full trip from Road’s End, this is strenuous due to the long approach and the steep spur. If you’re comfortable backpacking with significant elevation gain and want a quieter alternative to the Rae Lakes Loop, this side basin delivers. Day-hiking to East Lake is possible for very fit and fast hikers, but most will enjoy it more as an overnight with time to explore Lake Reflection.

Best Time to Hike

Plan for July through October in a typical year. Early season can bring lingering snow on the spur and high, cold creek crossings; the lower canyon can be hot—start early to beat the heat. Weekdays see even fewer people than weekends, but this route is generally much quieter than the nearby loop. Early and late light is best for photography on the lake and surrounding peaks.

Permits, Camping, and Regulations

Overnight trips require a wilderness permit with entry via Road’s End—Bubbs Creek; quotas apply in peak season and permits are picked up at the Road’s End Permit Station. During quota season you’ll need a reservation or a walk-up; outside quota season, self-issue permits may be available. Camp at least 100 feet from water and use established sites where they exist. Proper food storage is required—bear-resistant canisters are strongly recommended. Fires and other restrictions vary by conditions; confirm details when you pick up your permit.

Tips

• Treat this as a 2–3 day backpack for the best experience: basecamp at East Lake and day-hike to Lake Reflection.
• The spur is steep late in the day—budget time and energy accordingly.
• Carry a paper topo and a GPS track; this is true wilderness travel with variable conditions.
• If you want a busier marquee trip, the Rae Lakes Loop is nearby, but East Lake offers a far quieter feel.