Near Upper Kinney Lake via PCT
Lower Kinney Lake and the (smoke filled) Carson River Valley.
Near Upper Kinney Lake via PCT
Upper Kinney Lake
Near Upper Kinney Lake via PCT
Upper Kinney Lake
Near Upper Kinney Lake via PCT
Sunrise over Ebbetts Pass
Near Upper Kinney Lake via PCT
Ebbetts Peak

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Upper Kinney Lake via PCT

4.0 (2 Ratings)
A short, easy hike on the PCT with amazing views that leads to a huge, blue lake.
4.2
mi
Distance
834
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Family FriendlyFishingLakeSwimmingViewsWildflowers

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
4.18mi
Distance
834ft
Elevation Gain
834ft
Elevation Loss
25%
Max Grade
8,880ft
High Point
8,666ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
Take the road from the Ebbetts Pass parking lot to the junction with the PCT. Make sure to turn right (across the road), going left will lead to Noble Lake. After hiking a bit and then crossing the road, the trail starts to slope up steeply. This is only temporary - after a few minutes, the grade flattens out. Follow the trail around Ebbetts Peak (with the flag on top), and pass a few small ponds. Continue straight, and eventually you'll reach Upper Kinney Lake.This lake makes a nice day trip, run or backcountry hike with younger kids. It is much nicer than Noble Lake, but without the amazing vistas of surrounding peaks. Because the lake is only two miles from the parking lot, an inflatable tube or kayak can be carried to the lake without much difficulty.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Brady L