Lower Blue Lake
Markleeville, Alpine County, California
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Description
Lower Blue Lake covers 53 acres at an altitude of 8100'. Mostly shallow, but there are deeper areas toward the dam on the east end. The depth can vary, however, because PG&E controls the amount of water in the lakes. Lots of rocks dot the northern shore and much of the water in the west end; water can be quite shallow around those. Some can be jumped or dived off. Clarity is usually quite good; see photos. Air temperature is usually 15-20 degrees F colder than in the Carson Valley or Reno. (Note: Popular fishing location.)
Getting There
12 miles to end of Blue Lakes Rd off Hwy 88 in Hope Valley, west of Hwy 89 to South Lake Tahoe. Parking free for day use; camping is available for a fee. From November to May, the Blue Lakes area is a "sno-park" that requires a permit to enter. An excessively snowy winter can close some or all of the area as it did in early summer 2023.
Accessibility
Relatively smooth rocks guard most of the waterline on the north shore, but they are easily climbed over. Short distance from parking lots or the side of the roadway. Water depth increases gradually.
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