The drive to Highland Lake, while breathtakingly scenic, requires vigilance due to the challenging road conditions, with numerous rocks and potholes that make it difficult to fully appreciate the surrounding alpine beauty, unlike other lakes I've visited in California.

Highland Lake has become a popular paddling destination in recent years, offering endless opportunities for kayaking and fishing in a serene alpine setting. Anglers, whether fishing from shore or from a kayak or canoe, will delight in the picturesque lake and the abundance of trout that eagerly bite on a variety of lures and baits.

Situated at an elevation of 8,640 feet, Highland Lakes features a campground near the northern shore of the upper lake, just south of the larger lower lake. While views to the west from the campground are partially obscured by the surrounding forest, the area provides ample opportunities for hiking and equestrian activities, with several trailheads accessing the Carson Iceberg Wilderness.

This scenic alpine destination offers a wealth of summer recreational activities, though it remains inaccessible during the winter months.

Map of Highland Lake