Near Deacon Lee Trail
Crystal-clear Russian Lake is located just off the Deacon Lee Trail.
Near Deacon Lee Trail
Russian Lake, with Russian Peak in the distance
Near Deacon Lee Trail
The view from Deacon Lee Trailhead is pretty alright.
Near Deacon Lee Trail
Russian Lake, with Russian Peak in the distance
Near Deacon Lee Trail
You can make out an underwater ledge in Russian Lake from the scree pile to its southern side.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Deacon Lee Trail

3.3 (3 Ratings)
Western access to Russian Wilderness and Russian Lake through burned and exposed forest with great views.
6.7
mi
Distance
1,873
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Commonly BackpackedLakeSwimmingViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
6.66mi
Distance
1,873ft
Elevation Gain
1,162ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
7,385ft
High Point
6,364ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Deacon Lee Trail is a popular singletrack trail that provides the easiest access to Russian Lake at approximately 4 miles in by turning on to South Russian Creek Trail, then continuing another 0.5 - 1.0 miles around Waterdog Lake. The Deacon Lee Trail intersects the Pacific Crest Trail at 6.7 miles in, past Siphon Lake. The beginning of the trail is forest that quickly turns to recently burned landscape, exposing hikers to the elements. However, the vantage point and lack of foliage offer excellent views toward Trinity Alps Wilderness. Water is not plentiful and can be unavailable on the trail.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
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Contributors
Dara Zimmerman