Description: The Sierra Buttes-Lakes Basin area encompasses perhaps some the most scenic terrain on the the Tahoe National Forest. Mining, road building, and recreational resort development over the last 150 years means this area will never be considered as Wilderness, but it provides outstanding opportunities for a variety of outdoor recreational pursuits.
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) from the trailhead near Packsaddle Campground to
Tamarack Lakes provides a relatively easy introduction to this sub-alpine landscape
dotted with pine and red fir forests, amazing rock formations, and beautiful lakes.
Packsaddle Campground makes a great base camp for day hikes on the PCT.
From the trailhead on Packer Lake Road near the entrance to the Packsaddle Campground, the PCT climbs gradually through forests of ponderosa, Jeffrey, and sugar pines, as well as groves of red fir, past metavolcanic rock formations. These rocks produced a 106-pound gold nugget in 1869. The trail climbs about 800 feet over two miles to reach Tamarack Lakes. This well-constructed segment of the PCT is ideal for casual hikers and novice backpackers. Even families may enjoy this trail – two young fathers were carrying their babies up the trail when we were there in August 2026.
The trail crosses a seasonal drainage, which is typically dry by August, so bring plenty
of water. Along the way, you get scenic views of the Lakes Basin area to the north and
the rugged ridge that includes the jagged Sierra Buttes to the south. Lower and upper
Tamarack Lakes are great for swimming, camping, or just sitting by the shore. Hiking is best after the snow clears in June through the late fall.
The trail crosses two off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails – the first one to Dugan Pond and the second one is a much longer route from Sardine Lakes to the east. CalWild is
concerned that the Forest Service’s nationwide proposal to switch the agency’s Travel
Management Rule to a “open unless signed closed” protocol will mean increased illega OHV use on the PCT and the non-motorized portions of this scenic area.
Directions to the Packsaddle Campground PCT Trailhead:
From Bassetts Resort on Highway 49, head north on Gold Lake Highway. After about
1.3 miles, turn left on Packer Lake Road. After .3 miles, turn right to continue on Packer Road. In 2.4 miles, turn left into the Packsaddle Campground. Day use parking is immediately on your left. The PCT Trailhead is 30 feet past the campground entrance on Packer Road.
