Heather Lake

Heather Lake is the first lake on the Lakes Trail from Wolverton, tucked into a high Sierra basin of glacially carved granite and conifers. It is about 4.1 miles each way with roughly 2,000 feet of climbing, so this is a substantial day hike, not a quick lake stop. The lake makes a satisfying turnaround; the trail continues to Emerald and Pear lakes for a longer outing.

From Wolverton, the Lakes Trail climbs through meadows and forest to granite slopes and open views. The Watchtower route follows a ridge with views toward Lodgepole, the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River and Tokopah Falls. Choose the Hump Trail when snow or ice covers the Watchtower; the exposed ridge section is hazardous in those conditions.

At about 9,280 feet, the lake sits among polished granite, conifers and rugged ridges. Visitors repeatedly praise the scenery, and it is easy to see why: the shore, reflected water and steep basin all fit in one view. For a photo, include a bit of rocky shore or pine at the frame’s edge so the lake reads as part of the High Sierra landscape.

Overnight camping is not allowed at Heather or Aster lakes; the first designated campsite is at Emerald Lake, five miles from the Wolverton trailhead. Wolverton has parking, picnic tables and flush toilets before you start the climb; no facilities at the lake itself were verified.