Lyons Lake via Lyons Creek Trail

Dogs Off-leash

Features Commonly Backpacked · Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The beginning is mostly flat. Then, after you meet up with Bloodsucker #16E14, the trail starts to get steeper and steeper. The last 0.5 miles to Lyons Lake are tough, but definitely worth it. Can be done as a run, long day hike, or a one night backpacking trip.

The trail is pretty easy, and passes through a few meadows. Then, after the connection with Bloodsucker #16E14, it gets steeper, but stays in a forest. After you pass the Desolation Wilderness Sign, the trail becomes steep and gets views of Pyramid Peak and surrounding mountain ranges. Soon, you'll get to the top of the "Staircase to Heaven" and reach the fork with Sylvia Lake. From here, the trail is steep and rocky to Lyons Lake, but definitely worth it.

If you reach the lake pretty early and are backpacking the trail, I recommend running to Mount Price and the surrounding peaks. From Lyons Lake, follow the left side of the trees up the slope. Then, continue on the left side of the valley and scramble straight up some rocks to the peaks above. Smith Lake can be viewed from here, and at sunset, you can sometimes see a red glow on the lake that looks like a lava flow. Then, continue up the scramble on your right. I have been part of the way to Mount Price, but have never actually summited. The part I climbed up was harder than the ascent to the Smith Lake viewpoint, and requires lots of time and effort to reach the real summit.