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Wheeler Ridge/ Wheeler Lake Trail
This trail features expansive mountain views, forest, meadows, wildflowers, a volcanic ridge, and a lake. The trail leads to Avalanche Meadow and Wheeler Lake; it connects with the Sandy Meadow Trail (19E53), which passes through Sandy Meadow and ends at the Sandy Meadow Trailhead. This is a moderate trail with steep inclines and switchbacks. One-way distance to the Wheeler Ridge is 1.7 miles; one way distance to the Wheeler Lake is 3.3 miles.
The trail starts at the Woodchuck Basin Trailhead and begins on the Woodchuck Trail (18E24). It intersects with the Sandy Meadow Trail (19E53) at 3.1 miles from the trailhead, just before reaching Wheeler Lake.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Calaveras Ranger District (HWY 4) |
|---|---|
| Permit Info: | This trail enters the Mokelumne Wilderness; a wilderness permit is required for overnight visits to the Mokelumne Wilderness. |
| Usage: | Light-Medium |
| Best Season: | Summer, early fall |
| Busiest Season: | Summer |
| Closest Towns: | Bear Valley to the west, Markleeville to the east |
| Water: | No |
| Restroom: | No |
| Operated By: | US Forest Service |
General Information
Directions:Trail starts at the Woodchuck Basin Trailhead: From the Calaveras Ranger District head east on Highway 4 for approximately 35 miles; parking is on the left, right off the highway. Accessible to all highway-legal vehicle types, native surface parking area.
Lat/Long: 38.4933, -119.9808