Emma Lake Trail #61

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fishing · Geological Significance · Lake · Wildlife

No Restrooms at parking area. Dispersed Camping is Common in this region.

Trail is a bit steep but is well groomed for trail runners.

Emma Lake is a simple 2-mile run to a beautiful little eastern sierra Lake at the base of Emma Mountain. At 9.314 feet this run provides a well groomed horse trail experience through forest, open desert landscape and across a creek. The trail circles the lake giving opportunities for fishing, wildflower exploring, backpacking.

To get to Emma Lake trailhead exit HWY 395 approx. 1 mile past the Sonora Pass exit heading south on 395 towards Bridgeport. Or from Bridgeport travel approx. 12 miles to forest service turn off to Obsidian Campground. At campground head West up the ridge and follow the road to the end where a nice wide horse trailer accessible parking area awaits.

The start of the trail is all forest location and easy to follow as it steadily climbs up to a meadow / desert plateau and creek crossing. Travelers will then climb a bit of a steep section along the creek up to the lake.

Lake is greenish in color and is known by locals as a good fishing hole. Campsites on the West and North shores for backpackers provide tree cover and breaks from the afternoon winds off the peaks above. The lake is located on the West edge of Emma Peak.

Recommend a the run around the lake if you are visiting.

Pine Forest, Sage Brush Desert Meadow, Wild Flowers. Granite and Shell Rock Formations