Upper Kinney Lake via PCT

Dogs Leashed

Features Fishing · Lake · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers

There are many ponds on the way to Upper Kinney Lake, but these are all small and dirty. Make sure to go the whole two miles and stop at Upper Kinney instead - it is much nicer.

Sandy in some parts, soft dirt everywhere else.

Take the road from the Ebbetts Pass parking lot to the junction with the PCT. Make sure to turn right (across the road), going left will lead to Noble Lake. After running a bit and then crossing the road, the trail starts to slope up steeply. This is only temporary - after a few minutes, the grade flattens out. Follow the trail around Ebbetts Peak (with the flag on top), and pass a few small ponds. Continue straight, and eventually you'll reach Upper Kinney Lake.

This lake makes a nice day trip, run or backcountry hike with younger kids. It is much nicer than Noble Lake, but without the amazing vistas of surrounding peaks. Because the lake is only two miles from the parking lot, an inflatable tube or kayak can be carried to the lake without much difficulty.