Mt. Elwell Trail and Loop

Area Status: Open

Mt. Elwell Trail is a 12 mile out and back hike to the Pacific Crest Trail. The Mt. Elwell Loop is an 8 mile alternate route that returns to the trailhead via the Long Lake Trail. Plan to explore panoramic viewpoints, forest, craggy outcrops, wildflowers and fall colors along the way.

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At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Visitors should always check Alerts and Notices on the Plumas National Forest website.
Usage:	Medium

General Information

Directions:

From Graeagle go south about 1.5 miles on Highway 89. Turn right onto Gold Lake Highway. Drive 4 miles and turn right at Gray Eagle Lodge/Smith Lake Trail. Before reaching the lodge turn right to the parking area. Access Mt. Elwell Trail after a mile along the Smith Lake Trail.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Mountain Biking

Day Hiking

Take an out and back 12 mile hike to the Pacific Crest Trail or opt for the 8 mile loop alternative and return on the Long Lake Trail. Experience wildflowers, fall color, 360 degrees of grand vistas and solitude.

General Info:

Accessibility

The trail is most difficult on the north side of Mt. Elwell where the trail climbs close to the fall line.

Directions

From Graeagle go south about 1.5 miles on Highway 89. Turn right onto Gold Lake Highway. Drive 4 miles and turn right at Gray Eagle Lodge/Smith Lake Trail. Before reching the lodge turn righ to the parking area. Access Mt. Elwell Trail after a mile along the Smith Lake Trail.