Loon Lake Chalet
Sub-alpine red fir and lodgepole forests, granite bowls, and a spectacular view of the Crystal Range of the Sierra Nevada Mountains characterize the area. The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) built the Loon Lake Chalet in 1989. Popular summer activities include hiking, backpacking in Desolation Wilderness, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and four-wheel driving on the Rubicon 4WD Trail. In the winter, the Chalet is the focal point of the Loon Lake Winter Recreation Area offering many miles of non-groomed backcountry skiing trails.
The Chalet is located at Loon Lake, northeast of Placerville and is at 6,378 feet above sea level. You can reach this area by traveling east on Highway 50 to Ice House Road (8.5 miles east of Pollock Pines), then north on Ice House Road 30 miles to Loon Lake. Winter snow depth averages 3 to 8 feet; snow may fall from September through May. Motorized over the snow travel is prohibited in the Loon Lake Winter Recreation Area.
Loon Lake Chalet Campground Recreation Opportunity Guide (ROG) - This guide contains information, maps, and directions to assist you in enjoying your trip to the Eldorado National Forest.
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | The Loon Lake Chalet will be closed until further notice. |
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Operational Hours: |
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Reservations: |
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Rentals & Guides: | No equipment rentals or guide services. |
Area Amenities: | Picnic tables, Toilets, Drinking water, Parking |
Fees: |
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Permit Info: |
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Usage: | Medium-Heavy |
Best Season: | Winter |
Busiest Season: | Winter |
Restrictions: | No pets are allowed in the building. |
Closest Towns: | Pollock Pines, Ca. |
Water: | Yes |
Restroom: | Vault |
Passes: | Interagency Senior and Access passes are not accepted for rental cabins |
Operated By: | USFS |
Information Center: |
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General Information
General Notes:Amenities
The three story Chalet offers the most amenities of all the Eldorado cabins. The second floor warming room and third floor loft are available for rental year round. Do not expect hotel luxuries.
Parking: Circular parking area. RVs and trailers are allowed. Remember group size is limited to 20 people. In the winter, park vehicles to the inside of the loop to allow the snow plow to clear the main roadway around the building.
Sleeping: The warming room and the loft serve as sleeping areas and will accommodate up to 20 people. A dozen sleeping pads and a queen-size futon are available for use.
Heat & Lights: Electric heat and lights. A gas fireplace was installed for ambiance. Please do not attempt to heat the building with it.
Water: The water comes from a well and is tested regularly for contamination. Restrooms equipped with vault toilets are attached to the building and are accessed from the outside of the building. One is for the public and one is for only the renters.
Cooking: The kitchen area has a double sink, hot and cold water, a range top stove, a microwave oven, an under-the-counter refrigerator, and a small dryer. The Chalet does not have pots, utensils, or a garbage disposal. Electrical plugs may be used for crock-pots, coffee makers, and other electrical appliances that you bring. You are welcome to bring your outdoor BBQ.
Other: The warming room has multiple tables, benches, two wooden couches, and a futon couch. A campfire ring is available outside. A large deck extends from the second floor.
Activities
Cabin Rentals
Day Hiking
Summer activity
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
Winter Recreation Area. No permit or fee required for the activity just renting the Chalet.
Amenities
Picnic tables: | |
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Parking: | Yes |
Toilets: | Exterior vault unit |
Drinking water: | Yes |