Sandy Meadow Trail

Area Status: Open

The Sandy Meadow Trail passes through sloping meadows alternating with forest. There are some mountain and peak views to the north and east. The trail enters the Mokelumne Wilderness at the top of the first ridge.

This trail can be used to access Wheeler Lake; it is flatter and easier than the Wheeler Lake Trail out of the Woodchuck Basin Trailhead but longer. It is 4.2 miles to Wheeler Lake on the Sandy Meadow Trail. The trail is of moderate difficulty.

Access is via the Sandy Meadow Trailhead: Park on the south side of the highway; trailhead is on the north side.

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Calaveras Ranger District (Hwy 4)
Permit Info: A wilderness permit is required for overnight visits to the Mokelumne Wilderness.
Usage: Light
Best Season: Summer, early fall
Busiest Season: Summer
Water: No
Restroom: No
Operated By: US Forest Service

General Information

Directions:

Sandy Meadow Trailhead: From the Calaveras Ranger Station in Hathaway Pines, California, head east on Highway 4 for about 39 miles. The trailhead sign on the right-hand side of the road is where the parking area is located. The trailhead is on the opposite side of the road.

Accessible to all highway-legal vehicle types, native surface small parking area; must cross highway to get to the trail.

For a map, see the Sandy Meadow Trailhead page.


Activities

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Horse Riding

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Featured Events