Lakes Basin / Sierra Buttes
Dates
August 12–16, 2026
Base Camp
Packsaddle Campground
About
This year we’ll be setting up base camp at Packsaddle Campground and spending a few days enjoying some of the best scenery and trails the area has to offer.
Itinerary
- Wednesday – Arrival day. Get camp set up, connect with the group, and settle into mountain life.
- Day 1: Gold Valley Rim – Moderate trail with beautiful scenery and an optional challenge for those looking for more adventure. Drivers who want to push farther can continue onto the Snake Lake Loop — a very steep and rocky descent into Snake Lake followed by a technical climb back out alongside Little Deer Lake. Those preferring a more relaxed route can bypass the loop and return to camp via Gold Lake 4x4 Campground Road.
- Day 2: Poker Flat to La Porte – Full-day run, approximately 27.5 miles of mostly mellow trail with a few moderate sections mixed in. Great views and plenty of time to enjoy the trail and stop along the way.
- Day 3: Sierra Buttes Lookout – Easy scenic adventure up to incredible panoramic views, then time around the nearby lakes — swimming, relaxing, fishing, or simply soaking in the mountains before heading home.
Trip Details
| Trip Type | Forest roads to rock crawling |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate, with Hard options |
Vehicle Requirements
- Minimum: 31” tires
- Recommended: Basic recovery gear (tow straps, D-rings)
Harder routes will require more capable rigs — discuss with Trail Leader before the trip.
Questions?
Contact Trail Leader Guy Giuffre or reach out at our monthly club meetings.