The scenic shores of Lake Tahoe tend to capture the spotlight, but a more intimate High Sierra escape awaits for those who want to discover one of the area’s best-kept secrets: Huntington Lake. Stretching toward the clouds at 7,000 feet elevation, this under-the-radar destination features crystal-clear waters atop a mountain in the Sierra National Forest. For those in the know, the lake offers a beautiful opportunity to trade busy boardwalks for the sounds of flapping sails, the scent of ancient pine, and tranquil vibes that soothe the soul.
Northern California is home to many picturesque lakes, like Bucks Lakes with its sandy beaches, camping, and fishing, and Huntington Lake delivers big on natural beauty as well. However, it differentiates itself as a nautical hot spot, having been called one of the best sailing lakes in the country. The long and narrow lake is located between rocky ridges and enjoys thermal breezes that help provide optimal conditions for world-class sailing.
On the same mountain range, Shaver Lake offers a taste of lake town living, but its waters cater more to motorized watercraft and jet skis, with conditions that are less conducive to sailing. By contrast, Huntington Lake may offer water skiing and other motorized activities, but it largely belongs to the sailors. A fact backed up by the many regattas held here, including the annual High Sierra Regatta, a sailing competition that started more than 70 years ago, as well as the Day Sailer North American Championship Regatta, the Lido 14, and the Hobie Mile High Regatta.
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The basics for sailing on Huntington Lake
For those who aren’t competing in a regatta but hope to hit the water — and stay a while — there are several options that make it easy. The Huntington Lake Resort offers boat rentals, in addition to cabin stays, and The Grill restaurant on the waterfront. The resort, located on the northwest end of the lake, can also help with mooring and slip rentals. Across the water on the northeast shore, the Lakeshore Resort provides similar services for guests. These include a marina, cozy cabins, an RV park, the lively Saloon restaurant, and a general store. Whether staying at one of the cabins or camping lakeside, the resorts provide just enough infrastructure to be comfortable without compromising the area’s rustic charm.
Aside from the resorts, the Huntington Boat Ramp & Launching Site has parking, bathrooms, and paved boating access that’s good for day use. Located near the Lakeshore Resort, the facility is open from June to October. Likewise, China Peak Landing has a marina, boat rentals, and a restaurant just east of the Huntington Boat Ramp.
Huntington Lake is considered a four-season destination, but sailing activity decreases in the winter as both the temperatures and the water levels drop, with Southern California Edison Company moderating the water levels ahead of the spring rains and snowmelt. As a result, some of the facilities and marinas close for the winter. While the boating activity might slow down at this time, the snowy lake becomes a destination for winter activities like snowmobiling, Nordic skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing.
A taste of tranquil lakeshore vibes
Though famous for its alpine sailing conditions, Huntington Lake also delivers tranquil vibes and a slower pace. Think smaller crowds and fewer heavy wakes from large powerboats. This often gives kayakers and paddleboarders the chance to glide across the glass-like surface in calm and quieter conditions in the morning hours. Still, the lake is about more than just water activities, it’s about unplugging and connecting with nature.
Surrounding the lake, the mountain retreat features public campgrounds like Rancheria and College Campground, and plenty of peaceful hiking trails. For those looking to explore, the Rancheria Falls Trail is a four-mile trek out and back with a waterfall that’s best viewed in early spring or after a rain storm for increased water flow. For those who want to lean into the tranquility, it’s also a good place to do absolutely nothing but relax, grill burgers, and roast s’mores over a campfire. It’s like a classic California summer camp for guests of all ages.
Huntington Lake is about a 90-minute drive from downtown Fresno, a gateway city for Yosemite with quirky attractions. Access this hidden beauty with a scenic drive up Highway 168, passing through the foothills and climbing past Shaver Lake for another 40 minutes. That extra time in the car acts as a natural filter, leaving the crowds behind. If the tranquil beauty of the Sierras sounds appealing, this mountain lake is just waiting to be discovered.
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Read the original article on Islands.