Leavitt Lake

Total Miles
2.8

Elevation

2,916.65 ft

Duration

4 Hours

Technical Rating

Moderate

Best Time

Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

Leavitt Lake is a beautiful and scenic out-and-back trail on top of Sonora Pass/Highway 108. This trail follows Leavitt Creek and takes you up the canyon with incredible views all around. The trail does have some tricky and washed-out areas as well as three creek crossings. The wildlife and nature of this trail is one of a kind. There are lots of camping areas on the trail and at the lake for you and your group. Be prepared for strong winds at times; it's usually fifty-fifty on the weather even during the summer. Hiking is plentiful in the area as there are other lakes and wilderness areas nearby as well as the Pacific Crest Trail. Be sure to stay on the main road as there are areas that are closed to motorized travel, and pack in/pack out.

Photos of Leavitt Lake

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Difficulty

This trail does have deep ruts in some spots as well as large rocks that smaller vehicles might have to drive methodically through. An experienced driver should have no problem. Full-sized trucks with campers on the back have been seen at the lake as well as sprinter vans and similar vehicles, as well as smaller SUVs and pickups. There is a possibility for snow drifts throughout the season as well as fallen trees.

Technical Rating

Status Reports

Steve Gx460

Sep 15, 2024

4x4

Open

Normal

Dusty

For the most part pretty easy trail. Two sections that took some good line choice. Beautiful lake and camp spots totally worth the drive

Martin Kowalski

Sep 03, 2024

2022 Ford Ranger

Open

Normal

Rough/Deteriorated

Started the trail at dusk and made it up to the top fairly quickly. There are some rocky sections, washouts, and ruts that require high clearance and a careful line. Otherwise its a pretty easy drive most of the way. The lake is absolutely stunning and there are multiple options for campsites. The wind was uncomfortably cold during the night so I'd advise to be prepared for that. Also its quite disappointing about half of the roads at the top are closed off to vehicles. Overall this is a special place and even better if you can enjoy it with a limited amount of people around.

Ariel Jacklyn

Aug 23, 2024

2015 Toyota 4Runner

Open

Snow/Ice

Absolutely stunning lake and fun trail. With the high elevation, it does make the weather extremely unpredictable. The road itself getting too the lake isn’t too difficult (and doesn’t take too much time) as long as you have a decently lifted vehicle (I’m only 2.5”-3” on 33s, and not very experienced). Once at the lake, you can drive along the perimeter with a much more friendly road. My group camped here for two nights, first night was incredibly windy and snowed, the next time was a lot more calm but still cold! Be prepared for anything if you intend on camping here.

Brandon Wells

Aug 08, 2024

4x4

Open

Rough/Deteriorated

This trail had several small technical sections that justify the 4 rating. The remainder rid the trail is a 2. Deep off camber rocky outcroppings make you choose your line well. We made the trek in a f350 with a four wheel camper.