Secret Lake Trail

The out and back hike to Secret Lake is a scenic single track route beginning from the east end of Leavitt Meadows Campground near the Sonora Junction area.Lying off of a popular backpacking route, those looking to tack on a little more distance can make Secret Lake part of a loop hike. However this out and back is the most direct route to the serene alpine lake. Beginning by crossing a bridge over West Walker River, the track heads into the pine trees for about .25 miles before the Secret Lake Trail fork. From here, the single track crosses meadows and hills, with frequent inclines and declines - over 1000' in total elevation gain on a hike where the difference in elevation between the trailhead and Secret Lake is only about 300' - and passes by many awe-inspiring views of the landscape at the edge of the Hoover Wilderness.The views may be the biggest feature of the hike, with near panoramic vistas from knobby peaks and the river basin opening up below in other areas. At around 2.25 miles, hikers begin descending to Secret Lake, which is a small alpine lake area surrounded by trees with stone mountain peaks rising from the far end. While many hikers use the adjacent West Walker River Trail for long distance hikes and overnight backpacking trips, far fewer head to Secret Lake, so you'll likely find yourself with the lake area to yourself.After enjoying the calmness of the lake, return via the Secret Lake Trail, or you can venture further, eventually meeting up with the West Walker River Trail to use as a return route.There are limited day use only parking areas inside Leavitt Meadows Campground at the trailhead. In the event that there are no available spots, continue just west past the campground where there is a larger dirt lot and small footpath leading back to the campground.Vault toilets are available at both parking areas, however there is no water here. Hikers should keep in mind the high elevation of the trail and that much of the trail is exposed to sun and wind, and plan accordingly. Highway 108 is frequently closed altogether during winter conditions, with open dates set by current conditions.