Chilkoot Lake, CA: Easy Sierra National Forest Hike

About

Chilkoot Lake is a small reservoir tucked into Sierra National Forest above Bass Lake, and it rewards you with still water and pine-shaded flats instead of a parking-lot crowd. The walk in follows an old forest road off Beasore Road, easy enough for most hikers, and ends at a 57-acre lake that most visitors passing through the Yosemite area never hear about.

Getting There

The unmarked trailhead sits on Beasore Road, about a mile above its junction with Central Camp Road and just short of Cold Springs Summit. From the main trailhead it's roughly 5.5 miles round trip with about 440 feet of elevation gain, on old dirt road the entire way — rated easy. Parking closer to Cold Springs Summit shortens the walk to close to a mile each way.

What's at the Lake

Chilkoot Lake is part of PG&E's Crane Valley hydroelectric system, holding around 308 acre-feet of water at just over 7,400 feet elevation. Releases happen in late spring, sending water down Chilkoot Creek toward Bass Lake below. Past the lake, the old road fades into an off-trail scramble toward Little Shuteye Peak — fine for experienced off-trail hikers, not something to wander into casually.

Know Before You Go

Rattlesnakes, black bears, deer, and coyotes all use this stretch of forest — stay alert.
Pack bug spray; a few sections near the lake run swampy.
Dogs are allowed but should stay leashed or under close voice control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chilkoot Lake inside Yosemite National Park?

No — it's in Sierra National Forest, outside the park boundary, a short drive above Bass Lake near the park's south entrance.

How hard is the hike to Chilkoot Lake?

Easy. The route follows an old forest road with about 440 feet of elevation gain over roughly 5.5 miles round trip from the main trailhead.

Can I hike past the lake to Shuteye Peak?

Yes, but the route turns into an unmarked off-trail scramble beyond the lake — it suits experienced hikers comfortable with off-trail navigation, not a casual add-on.

What should I watch for on the trail?

Rattlesnakes and black bears are both present in this area, and a few stretches near the lake can be swampy — bug spray and sturdy footwear help.