Lake Alpine Photos – Quintessential Summer Camp


Probably the most famous summertime destination along Ebbetts Pass, this high Sierra lake offers boating, fishing, hiking & camping. In short, for many vacationers, it’s the ultimate weekend getaway. Here’s a small collection Lake Alpine photos I took.

Colorful Tourist Boats, Docked at Shore - Lake Alpine photos
Colorful Lake Alpine Boats, Docked at Shore

Don’t these scenes make you think of every iconic summer camp movie…of all time? Yes, this lake is a recreational wonderland. There are paddle boats, fishing boats, and kayaks for rent, so no need to bring your own.

Aluminum boats with floating lake dock.
More boats for rent

Lake Alpine also has other amenities, such as a restaurant and bar. While the area does contain ample natural beauty, those looking for a true backcountry experience might want to look elsewhere. You’re going to find tourists here…plenty of them.

Paved walking path with summertime flowers
Paved walking path

As far as hiking is concerned, you can make the heavy duty trek up to “Inspiration Point”, or just settle for a 4 mile jaunt around the lake. I was able to find a few scenic, lakeside trails with very little effort.

Dirt hiking trail leading to lake - Lake Alpine photos
Dirt trail leading to lake

Fishermen…errr…fisher…people(?) will be pleased to know that this lake is well stocked with trout. Motorized boating is allowed, albeit with a 10mph maximum speed.

If you’ve been to Lake Alpine but have never ventured further up Ebbetts Pass, you must see it! From the lake on, the road becomes quite picturesque. Certainly would be a shame to drive all the way out here and never see (what I consider to be) the best part, just miles up the road.

For a less crowded (and admittedly less serviced) backcountry option, check out Mosquito Lakes further up Ebbetts Pass. It is right along the road, but it’s incredibly scenic…check out my sunset photos taken there!

Looking for lodging? Check out my Yosemite Hotels page.

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About My Photos

The images on this website are available for licensing and/or sale as framed prints. If you’d like to purchase them for a blog, news article, or gift, feel free to contact me with the specifics. This way you’re supporting photographers such as me directly (as opposed to buying from a faceless stock photo corporation).

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– Nathan Allen

About Me

Photographer Nathan Allen

I’m Nathan Allen, photographer / creator of YosemiteParkPhotos.com (Yosemite Photos) and international travel site I Dreamed Of This. In truth, I lived in San Francisco, New York, & Singapore…but nothing compares to life in the mountains. I share my experiences HERE.