The best paddling trips in California are no longer a well-kept secret. The awe-inspiring vistas of the region's striking terrain are simply overwhelming, making the Gold Lakes Basin Area a popular paddling destination. Ringed by a rocky shoreline, the enchanting Upper Salmon Lake is an ideal spot for a leisurely fifteen-minute paddle, instilling a profound sense of inner peace with its gorgeous landscape.

Though Upper Salmon Lake's beauty draws hordes of tourists, picnickers, and paddlers, the lack of camping facilities helps limit the crowds. Those seeking to fully enjoy the stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains and forests would do best to visit early in the morning, when the lake is at its most serene. With its outstanding scenery, the three-quarter mile lake becomes a summer hotspot, drawing visitors like bees to honey for picnicking, swimming, and floating on inner tubes.

Upper Salmon Lake boasts a peaceful and picturesque environment, making it a wonderful place to relax and reflect on one’s blessings. The absence of dedicated camping facilities helps to keep the crowds at bay, yet the lake’s stunning beauty continues to attract a significant number of tourists, picnickers, and paddlers. To fully appreciate the breathtaking views of the nearby mountains and forests, it is wise for campers to arrive early, as camping spots are available only on a first-come, first-served basis at nearby lakes like Gold, Packer, Snag, and Sardine Lakes.

A few kayak anglers also frequent the waters, hoping to land a rare large brown trout or one of the 3,000 fingerling rainbow trout stocked annually by the Department of Fish and Game.

Map of Upper Salmon Lake