
Gull Lake June Lake California
A serene alpine lake in California's Eastern Sierra, offering stunning mountain views, a scenic loop trail, and excellent fishing.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak fall colors

Gull Lake June Lake California
Best Time
Peak fall colors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene alpine lake in California's Eastern Sierra, offering stunning mountain views, a scenic loop trail, and excellent fishing.
"Incredibly beautiful lake overlooking the June Lake area, in particular the massive 11,000ft Carson Peak."

🚗 Parking is Easy & Free
Ample free parking available near the playground and marina. Easy access for paddle boards and boats.
🥾 Hike the Loop Trail
Enjoy a scenic one-hour hike around the lake; 80% single track, great for dogs off-leash in quieter sections.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Carson Peak Views
Overlooking Gull Lake
Majestic 11,000ft peak providing a stunning backdrop, especially with partially frozen lake views in winter.

Gull Lake Loop Trail
Around Gull Lake
An easy, scenic one-hour hike offering diverse terrain and peaceful solitude, with a rope swing for a refreshing dip.
Autumn Brewfest
Gull Lake Park
Annual fall festival featuring craft beer, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in late September.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Colors
Embrace the Outdoors: Trails & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Easy & Free
Ample free parking available near the playground and marina. Easy access for paddle boards and boats.
🥾 Hike the Loop Trail
Enjoy a scenic one-hour hike around the lake; 80% single track, great for dogs off-leash in quieter sections.
🎣 Cast a Line for Trout
Gull Lake is known for rainbow trout fishing. Bring your gear for a peaceful angling experience.
🍂 Chase Fall Colors
Visit in October for stunning autumn foliage along the June Lake Loop, including Gull Lake.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Easy & Free
Ample free parking available near the playground and marina. Easy access for paddle boards and boats.
🥾 Hike the Loop Trail
Enjoy a scenic one-hour hike around the lake; 80% single track, great for dogs off-leash in quieter sections.
🎣 Cast a Line for Trout
Gull Lake is known for rainbow trout fishing. Bring your gear for a peaceful angling experience.
🍂 Chase Fall Colors
Visit in October for stunning autumn foliage along the June Lake Loop, including Gull Lake.
📸 Capture Mountain Vistas
Breathtaking scenery with mountains like Carson Peak. Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Gull Lake's raw beauty and peaceful atmosphere, highlighting the stunning mountain scenery and the enjoyable loop trail. Many appreciate the free parking and access for water activities like fishing and paddleboarding. While generally positive, some may find the trail occasionally shares space with campground roads.
"Wonderful little hidden lake. There’s an easy one-hour hike around the lake that starts on a small trail just above the playground or at the far end of the marina. Easy & free parking. Relatively easy to maintain the trail. 80% single track, but also on camp roads and thru a campground. There’s a rope swing into the water at the west end. I kept my dog on the leash near the start and end, but otherwise he was off leash and we saw hardly anyone. Free launch sites for paddle boards and boats. Picnic tables, shaded grass, large charcoal grills, fire pits & plenty of sweet fishing nooks as well. Probably boondocks camping back the dirt roads nearby."
Sherry S.
"Raw beauty, peaceful lake. Great picnic area, nice trails. Fishing."
MyVisit MyView
"We enjoyed our time at Gull Lake. Great scenery and had fun fishing for rainbow trout... The facility folks are friendly and helpful..."
James J.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gull Lake is part of the scenic June Lake Loop, accessible via State Route 158. It's located in California's Eastern Sierra region, a popular stop on Highway 395. The loop itself is about 14-16 miles long and passes by four lakes: June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake.
Yes, the June Lake Loop is a well-maintained scenic drive. You can drive and park at various points, including Horseshoe Lake, to enjoy the views and access trails.
Many visitors recommend driving the loop from south to north to have the lakes on your right-hand side for easier pull-offs and views.
Road conditions are generally good, but it's always wise to check local advisories, especially during winter months when snow can impact access.
Yes, RVs can access areas around Gull Lake, with options like Goldenpine RV Park located nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to Gull Lake and its surrounding park areas is generally free. Parking is also free, making it an accessible destination for all visitors.
Gull Lake Park and its amenities, like picnic areas and trails, are typically open from dawn to dusk. Specific event hours, like the Autumn Brewfest, will vary.
For a standard day visit, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to attend special events like the Autumn Brewfest, purchasing tickets or wristbands in advance is recommended.
No, there are free launch sites available for paddle boards and boats, making it easy to get on the water.
For the Autumn Brewfest, you can pick up wristbands and tasting glasses in advance from June Lake Brewing on the Friday before the event.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Gull Lake offers a variety of activities including hiking the loop trail, fishing for rainbow trout, picnicking with provided tables and grills, and enjoying the scenic mountain views.
Yes, there's an easy one-hour loop trail that circles the lake, featuring 80% single track and passing through campgrounds. It's well-maintained and offers beautiful scenery.
Dogs are welcome at Gull Lake. While it's advised to keep them on a leash near the start and end of the trail, there are sections where they can be off-leash, especially when fewer people are around.
You'll find picnic tables, shaded grass areas, large charcoal grills, fire pits, and fishing nooks. There's also a playground located right next to the lake.
Yes, there's a rope swing at the west end of the lake, suggesting it's a popular spot for swimming and cooling off during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
Gull Lake offers stunning photo opportunities with the towering Carson Peak as a backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset. The autumn foliage in October provides vibrant colors, and the partially frozen lake in winter creates unique shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the golden hour glow on the mountains and lake.
The entire June Lake Loop offers picturesque views, but specific points along the shoreline of Gull Lake provide excellent vantage points for capturing the lake and surrounding peaks. The GPS coordinates for one specific view are 37.7773544, -119.0802486.
Gull Lake is ideal for landscape photography, nature photography, and capturing scenic road trip moments. It's also a great spot for portraits with a beautiful natural background.
While not explicitly mentioned, drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local park rules and FAA guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing along some fishing gear, as the lake is known for rainbow trout, which can be an exciting activity for kids. The generally calm waters and the option for a refreshing dip (thanks to the rope swing!) make it a well-rounded family destination.
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
Plan to stop frequently at the designated pull-offs to soak in the views and capture photos. Gull Lake provides ample free parking and easy access to the shoreline, making it a perfect spot to stretch your legs, enjoy a picnic, or even take a short hike. It's an ideal stop for anyone on a California road trip seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
🎣 Anglers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beyond fishing, the loop trail provides a great opportunity for a hike with rewarding views. The picnic areas with grills are perfect for a post-fishing or post-hike meal. Whether you're camping nearby or visiting for the day, Gull Lake caters to a love for the outdoors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The June Lake Loop: A Scenic Gem
Travelers often describe the loop as a more serene alternative to nearby Mammoth Lakes, providing a peaceful escape into nature. The drive itself is an experience, with numerous pull-offs allowing visitors to stop and admire the scenery. Each lake has its own unique charm, from the larger June Lake with its village amenities to the smaller, more intimate Gull Lake.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely drive, a challenging hike, or a quiet spot to fish, the June Lake Loop offers something for everyone. It's a must-visit for anyone traveling along Highway 395 in California, promising unforgettable views and a deep connection with the Sierra Nevada landscape.
Fishing and Water Activities at Gull Lake
Beyond fishing, Gull Lake is also suitable for other water activities. There are free launch sites available for paddle boards and boats, allowing visitors to explore the lake from the water. The presence of a rope swing at the west end suggests that swimming and enjoying the cool alpine water are also popular pastimes during the warmer months.
Whether you're an avid angler or simply looking to enjoy the water, Gull Lake provides ample opportunities. The combination of accessible fishing spots, free launch facilities, and refreshing swimming options makes it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Autumn Brewfest: A Seasonal Celebration
Attendees can enjoy a variety of craft beers from regional breweries, often accompanied by food vendors and entertainment. The event usually runs from late morning to early evening, with specific timings for the craft beer garden. Visitors are encouraged to pick up their tasting glasses and wristbands in advance to streamline their experience on the day of the festival.
This event transforms Gull Lake Park into a lively hub, drawing locals and visitors alike to celebrate the season. It's a perfect addition to a fall visit to the June Lake Loop, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and festive fun.
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