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Dinkey Lakes Loop

Sierra National Forest, California · 4 min read

Distance
13 mi
Elevation Gain
1,300 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
July through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Four named lakes visited on a single loop: First Dinkey, Second Dinkey, Mystery, and Rock Lake
  • Open granite and lodgepole pine terrain typical of the central Sierra
  • Compact loop makes multi-lake visits practical in a single day or weekend
  • Less competitive permit system than adjacent national park wilderness areas

Overview

The Dinkey Lakes Wilderness occupies 30,000 acres of central Sierra Nevada granite south of Shaver Lake, protecting a cluster of alpine lakes and the granite terrain that surrounds them. The Dinkey Lakes Loop is the route that puts four of these lakes on a single 13-mile circuit, making it one of the most efficient multi-lake hiking experiences in the Sierra National Forest and a practical alternative for visitors who want Sierra high-country lakes without competing for Yosemite backcountry lottery slots.

The loop passes First Dinkey Lake (the largest), Second Dinkey Lake (more intimate), Mystery Lake, and Rock Lake in a circuit that stays between roughly 8,600 and 9,800 feet throughout. The terrain is classic central Sierra: polished granite slabs, lodgepole pine at the lake margins, scattered red fir, and the open rocky character of the high country that looks similar from lake to lake but has enough variation to hold attention across 13 miles.

This trail works well as both a long day hike for strong hikers and a comfortable overnight backpack. The overnight option allows time to fish, swim, and explore the additional smaller tarns and granite formations between the named lakes. A free self-issue wilderness permit covers overnight stays; no permit is needed for day hiking. Before any Dinkey Lakes trip, review bear canister requirements, Leave No Trace principles for alpine lake camping, and how to get a national forest camping permit. Check current conditions for snow coverage on the upper trail before early-season visits.

The Route

Miles 0 to 3: Trailhead to First Dinkey Lake

From the Dinkey Lakes Trailhead on Dinkey Creek Road, the trail enters lodgepole pine forest and begins climbing gradually. The first three miles gain approximately 700 feet through the forest and over a series of low granite ridges. First Dinkey Lake appears at mile 3, the largest lake on the circuit with a clear granite shore and good camping benches on the north side.

Miles 3 to 6: First to Second Dinkey Lake and Mystery Lake

From First Dinkey, the loop continues southeast to Second Dinkey Lake and then to Mystery Lake, which is smaller and sits higher in the basin. The terrain between the lakes is open granite with scattered lodgepole. Views of the surrounding wilderness peaks expand in this section. Mystery Lake has good camping on its east shore.

Miles 6 to 9: Rock Lake and High Point

Rock Lake sits at the route's approximate high point near 9,600 feet. The lake is set in a tight granite basin with fewer surrounding trees than the lower lakes. Views from the slopes above Rock Lake extend significantly. This is the most remote-feeling point on the loop.

Miles 9 to 13: Return to Trailhead

The loop descends from the Rock Lake basin back toward the trailhead via a different drainage, completing the circuit. The descent passes through progressively denser forest as elevation drops. The final two miles return to the trailhead through familiar terrain.

When to Visit

July through October. The Dinkey Lakes area typically clears of snow in late June or early July. Late July and August are peak swimming season. September is excellent for hiking with fall color beginning in the understory and minimal crowds. October can bring early snow to the upper portions.

What to Bring

  • Bear canister (required for overnight camping).
  • Many hikers carry 2 liters of water capacity; water available at each lake but requires treatment.
  • Layers for cool high-country conditions and possible afternoon thunderstorms.
  • Camp stove; campfire restrictions apply in the wilderness.
  • California fishing license if fishing.

Practical Details

Free wilderness permit self-issued at trailhead for overnight camping as of 2026. No permit for day hiking. No parking fee. Vault toilets at the trailhead. Camp 200 feet from lake shores. Dogs allowed and must be under control.

See veteran benefits on national forests for America the Beautiful Pass information relevant to day use fees at nearby developed sites.

Getting There

From Shaver Lake on Highway 168, turn south on Dinkey Creek Road and drive approximately 13 miles to the Dinkey Lakes Trailhead. The road is paved for the first portion and transitions to gravel; a high-clearance vehicle is helpful for the final miles. From Fresno, take Highway 168 east approximately 45 miles to Shaver Lake, then south on Dinkey Creek Road. Total drive from Fresno is approximately 1.5-2 hours.

Trailhead Parking

Dinkey Lakes Trailhead off Dinkey Creek Road southeast of Shaver Lake. Gravel lot for approximately 25 vehicles. No fee as of 2026.

← Back to Sierra National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for the Dinkey Lakes Loop?
A free self-issue Dinkey Lakes Wilderness Permit is required for overnight camping, available at the trailhead kiosk as of 2026. Day hikers do not need a permit. Verify requirements with the Pineridge Ranger District before your visit.
Is the Dinkey Lakes Loop suitable as a day hike?
Strong hikers complete the 13-mile loop in a day, typically requiring 7-9 hours at a comfortable pace. The moderate elevation gain is manageable, but the distance requires solid fitness. Many visitors prefer doing it as a two-day backpack with an overnight at First Dinkey Lake.
Are bear canisters required in Dinkey Lakes Wilderness?
Yes, bear canisters are required for overnight camping in Dinkey Lakes Wilderness as of 2026. Black bears are active in the wilderness. Store food and scented items in the canister at all times when camping.
Which lake in the Dinkey Lakes circuit is best for swimming?
First Dinkey Lake is the largest and most visited, with the best swimming areas and most accessible shoreline. Second Dinkey Lake is more intimate and has good swimming on the south shore. All four lakes are swimmable in late July and August.
How crowded is the Dinkey Lakes Wilderness compared to nearby national park wilderness areas?
Dinkey Lakes sees far fewer visitors than Yosemite or Kings Canyon wilderness areas despite comparable scenery. Summer weekends see moderate trail traffic but nothing approaching the crowds at comparable park destinations. Weekday visits are pleasantly quiet.