Plan with
Confidence
Wilderness permits are required, but they are easily obtained at any Stanislaus Forest ranger station. Campfires are not allowed above 9000 feet, but the lake is below that.
Path Type
Point to Point
This is a short, easy hike from the start of the trail, but it's a long hike to the start from any direction.
The Wire Lake Trail leaves the Relief Valley Trail at a signpost that is only 0.1 miles west of the Long Lake Trail. It is marked on the latest Tom Harrison Emigrant Wilderness Map as only occasionally maintained, but in 2017, the trail was open and easy to follow as far as the southern end of Upper Wire Lake. After that, it becomes an off-trail route with little evidence that there was ever a trail. Route finding is required, but this is gentle country. There are multiple ways to get from one place to another. For the continuation of this route, check out Wire Lake to Spring Meadow Route.
There are good campsites on the west and southwest sides of the lake and good fishing.
No Condition Reports
Pacific Crest Trail: California Section J - Sonora Pass to Echo Lake
Pacific Crest Trail: California Section J - Sonora Pass to Echo Lake
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