The Lakes Basin is, as you’d expect, packed with lakes. And Long Lake is one of its, well, longest. What’s not long is the hike to it—just 1 mile! When you arrive, take a seat at the wooden bench beautifully perched for enjoying views up to Mount Elwell, where ambitious hikers will continue on.

There are no motorboats, just the occasional sailboat (find a small boat ramp on the north side of the lake). Hiking trails surround this lake in all directions, including the scenic and easy Bear Lakes Loop.

Short and sweet. So Long, now.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: In the episode "Secret Sierra" Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss their trip to Long Lake and exploring the Lakes Basin.

Start at the trailhead at the end of the Lakes Basin Campground. You’ll see two trailheads (Bear Lakes and Long Lake). Start on the Long Lake Trail all the way up to Long Lake. To make a loop, backtrack from the lake and follow the Bear Lakes Loop Trail.