Best Trails in El Dorado National Forest

Fairly easy hike if you are in good shape. My friend and I decided to hike up to Melissa Coray Peak after setting up camp around the eastern side (towards Round Top) which was fairly tough and very rocky, no real trail except for a few rock stackings that hikers have placed. Going around the western ridge is much easier and advised as its less rocky and there are trails leading most of the way to the top. The lake itself was nice and clear but cold, it did get fairly windy during the night but nothing too bad. However, the morning was extremely calm with a few birds chirping around the lake. The streams leading towards Caples from Emigrant were not as active and many of the plants and flowers were dead (late in the year). Looking to going back during the peak summer months for warmer temperatures to dip into the freezing water and to look at the beautiful wildflowers.

Beautiful! This trail is no joke but if you’re up for the challenge it’s great! Very rocky- I won’t go again without poles. Make sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water!

Challenging trail that never disappoints

Amazing views. Well manicured trail. Take the Frog Lake detour for a great Vista of Red Lake then circle back to the trail to continue on to Lake Winnemucca.

There's a parking lot with a cash box. Bring $5 with you. Bathrooms also located at the parking lot.

My soul is filled with the holy spirit of Mother Earth. Such beauty!

This is a pretty vigorous hike to some wonderful lakes. Great if you are looking for a decent workout--not too easy, but not too hard. Smith lake is the final lake and is my personal favorite. It sits high in elevation just at the tree line with some excellent views of the valley below. Very much worth it!

Love it, not strenuous. Actual mileage 9.1 miles. Emigrant lake beautiful

This was a great little trail. Very secluded.

great views from the top! quite busy.

We would rate this as poorly marked Trail. Even with all trails we got way off course and basically made it up as we went. Beautiful area for kayaking. Wouldn’t hike it again though.

E xxx cellent hike!

Hiked this trail twice, hoping to get to the very top next time. Takes about 3hrs there and back with a fast pace walk. Definitely worth reaching the base of the waterfall.