Whether you want to go big or keep it small, the Lost Sierra offers up day hikes for every ability level. Extend your hike into the Plumas National Forestfor an afternoon escape. The Lakes Basin Recreation Area, 10 minutes from Nakoma, features an interconnected network of trails that provides options for short walks or all-day treks.

The Bear Lakes Loop skirts four crystal clear lakes that invite a picnic or swim or both. Setting off from the Lakes Basin Trailhead off Gold Lake Highway, you can approach this easy to moderate 2.5 mile loop either clockwise or counterclockwise. You’ll pass beautiful lakes — Big Bear, Little Bear, Cub and Long. With only a 350’ elevation gain, it’s a perfect hike for the whole family. An optional quarter mile extension will take you to lake number five, Silver Lake, which has some lovely picnic spots on its shore.

The views from atop Mt. Elwell make this more advanced effort completely worth the effort for the hardy hiker. The 7.5 mile loop has some steep, exposed sections. Given the length of the hike and the exposure at the 7,800’ rocky top of Mt. Elwell, it’s recommended to start the hike in the morning. Begin at the Smith Lake trailhead which is just off the road to Gray Eagle Lodge, accessed from Gold Lake highway. The hike can be approached either clockwise traversing south to the Long Lake dam and then up to the peak, or counterclockwise from the Smith Lake trail to the north. Either way offers spectacular views and a thoroughly enjoyable, vigorous hike.

This short, but quite steep trail is just 4.5 miles out and back with an 1,800’ elevation gain and can be done by fit, beginner hikers. The views from the soaring fire lookout are spectacular. To access the trailhead, take Gold Lake Highway to Sardine/Packer Lake Road and follow signs to Packer Lake and Packer Saddle. The climb up the steel ladder to the actual lookout building at the top is not for the faint of heart.