June Lake Loop Trail June Lake California
Discover the 'Switzerland of California' on the June Lake Loop, a scenic drive featuring four stunning alpine lakes and majestic Sierra Nevada peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear water, perfect for activities
June Lake Loop Trail June Lake California
Best Time
Clear water, perfect for activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the 'Switzerland of California' on the June Lake Loop, a scenic drive featuring four stunning alpine lakes and majestic Sierra Nevada peaks.
"June Lake is better than both Lake Tahoe and Big Bear, yeah I said it!"
🚗 Drive the Loop Early
Beat the weekend crowds by driving the June Lake Loop early in the morning. Enjoy the serene beauty!
🛶 Boat Rentals Available
Rent a boat or kayak at June Lake Marina for a unique perspective of the stunning scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
June Lake Beach
June Lake
Crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain backdrops make this a perfect spot for relaxation and photos.
Gull Lake Marina
Gull Lake
Rent a boat or kayak for a unique perspective of the alpine scenery and a fun day on the water.
Parker Lake Trail
Near June Lake
An underrated gem offering a moderate hike to a turquoise alpine lake framed by dramatic peaks.
June Lake Loop Drive
Highway 395
Experience the 'Switzerland of California' with breathtaking views of four distinct alpine lakes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Embrace the Scenic Drive
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive the Loop Early
Beat the weekend crowds by driving the June Lake Loop early in the morning. Enjoy the serene beauty!
🛶 Boat Rentals Available
Rent a boat or kayak at June Lake Marina for a unique perspective of the stunning scenery.
🥾 Hike to Parker Lake
Discover this quiet, stunning hike to a turquoise alpine lake – an underrated gem!
📸 Capture Fall Colors
Visit in late September to early October for breathtaking golden aspen foliage. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive the Loop Early
Beat the weekend crowds by driving the June Lake Loop early in the morning. Enjoy the serene beauty!
🛶 Boat Rentals Available
Rent a boat or kayak at June Lake Marina for a unique perspective of the stunning scenery.
🥾 Hike to Parker Lake
Discover this quiet, stunning hike to a turquoise alpine lake – an underrated gem!
📸 Capture Fall Colors
Visit in late September to early October for breathtaking golden aspen foliage.
🍳 Breakfast at Silver Lake
Stop at Silver Lake Resort for breakfast and enjoy cozy cabin stays if planning a longer visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the June Lake Loop's stunning natural beauty, often comparing it to Switzerland. The clear waters, majestic peaks, and vibrant fall colors are frequently highlighted. While some note it can get crowded on weekends, many appreciate its relative tranquility compared to more famous California lakes.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The June Lake Loop is approximately a 5-hour drive from Los Angeles via US-395 North. Many travelers find it a worthwhile road trip destination.
Public transport options are very limited. It's best to have your own vehicle for exploring the June Lake Loop and surrounding areas. Renting a car is highly recommended.
The most popular way to explore is by driving the scenic 16-mile loop off Highway 395. You can stop at various viewpoints, trailheads, and picnic areas along the way.
There are no general entrance fees for driving the June Lake Loop itself. However, some specific activities or campgrounds within the area may have associated fees.
Road conditions are generally good, especially during the summer and fall. However, always check local road advisories, especially during winter months, as snow can impact accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit and drive the June Lake Loop. Access to the lakes and scenic viewpoints is generally free.
June Lake is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers or specific facilities may have limited hours.
Yes, there are several campgrounds available around the June Lake Loop, including June Lake Campground and Golden Pine RV Park. Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak season.
While there aren't official guided tours for the entire loop, local resorts and activity providers may offer boat tours or fishing excursions.
Absolutely! June Lake is a fantastic destination for a day trip, especially from Southern California, offering stunning scenery and recreational opportunities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include scenic driving, hiking, fishing, boating, kayaking, swimming (in summer), photography, and enjoying the natural beauty.
Yes, there are several hiking trails, from easy strolls to more moderate treks like the Parker Lake Trail, offering incredible alpine views.
The water is known for being crystal clear and refreshing, especially during the summer months. It's often described as feeling like a movie scene. +1
Yes, there are dining options available, including Silver Lake Resort which offers breakfast, and other local eateries in the June Lake village.
Pack layers of clothing as mountain weather can change quickly, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire June Lake Loop offers incredible photo opportunities. Key spots include June Lake Beach, the viewpoints overlooking Gull and Silver Lakes, and the reflections of the mountains in the water. +1
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check with local authorities and park services regarding drone operation policies before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The high altitude can mean intense sunlight, so be mindful of exposure. Also, weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for various conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Many campgrounds along the loop offer family-friendly amenities. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as services can be spread out. The scenic beauty provides endless opportunities for kids to connect with nature, and the relatively short driving distances between lakes make it easy to manage with younger children. Remember to bring layers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1 The 16-mile loop is easily navigable by car, with numerous pull-offs to admire the views and snap photos. Make sure to allocate enough time to truly soak in the beauty of each lake. For those on a longer road trip, consider extending your stay to explore nearby attractions like Devils Postpile National Monument or the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve. The June Lake Loop itself offers ample opportunities for short hikes and scenic overlooks, making it a rewarding and accessible addition to any itinerary.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1Beyond the iconic views, explore trails like Parker Lake for unique perspectives and fewer crowds. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, and be prepared for changing weather conditions, which can add to the dramatic atmosphere. The clarity of the water and the grandeur of the mountains provide endless inspiration for capturing the raw beauty of the Eastern Sierra.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The June Lake Loop: A Scenic Masterpiece
Each lake on the loop has its own unique charm. June Lake is known for its beautiful beach and calm waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. Gull Lake offers a more active vibe with a marina for boat rentals and fishing. Silver Lake is picturesque with its surrounding pine trees and is a great spot for relaxation. Grant Lake, the largest of the four, is ideal for boating and water sports.
Beyond the lakes themselves, the June Lake Loop is a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures. Hikers can explore trails leading to hidden alpine lakes or enjoy shorter walks with panoramic views. The area is also a haven for anglers, with excellent fishing opportunities in the lakes and nearby streams. Whether you're driving through, camping, or staying in one of the charming local cabins, the June Lake Loop promises an unforgettable natural escape.
Best Times to Visit for Unforgettable Views
Fall (September-October) is arguably the most visually stunning time to visit. The aspen trees lining the loop burst into vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red, creating a spectacular display of fall foliage. This season offers cooler temperatures perfect for hiking and photography, and the crowds begin to thin out, offering a more serene experience.
+3Spring (April-May) brings a refreshing change as the snow melts and wildflowers begin to bloom, painting the meadows with color. While some higher elevation trails might still be snow-covered, the lower areas are beautiful. Winter (November-March) transforms the loop into a serene, snow-covered wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing and enjoying the quiet beauty, though road access can be limited and some facilities may be closed.
Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
Locals also point to the unique charm of June Lake Beach, which, despite its name, is a fantastic spot for swimming and relaxing, often described as feeling like a scene from a movie due to its clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop.
For those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, exploring the smaller access points and less-trafficked trails around the loop can reveal secluded coves and panoramic viewpoints. Many travelers are surprised by how much this area, just a few hours from major cities, remains relatively uncrowded and pristine.
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