We did get to see views of Middle Velma … Two trailheads offer the most ready access to this area: Eagle Falls and Bayview Campground. Stopping for a quick break at Middle Velma … Trail Description: The two main trail heads for Upper Velma are Eagle Lakes or Bayview.We chose Bayview, one, because we camped the night before at the Bayview Campground, two, because it saves you a few hundred feet of climbing, and three, because the … Skirt around the shore of Upper Velma and you will come to a creek crossing that will take you to Middle Velama. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October. Note: the trailhead parking lot fills up fast so plan to arrive by 8:00. this trail was good and would have been better in a couple weeks! We were quickly thrust from the serenity of the back country into the reality of a tourist zone. Day 1:  Saturday finally arrived and while it was drizzling in Vacaville, from where we left, it was looking to be relatively dry on the trail until about 2pm. Summary: This is a great semi-loop hike in the Desolation Wilderness southwest of Lake Tahoe. The trailhead is very congested and parking can be difficult if you do not reach the trailhead early. Overall great loop. You can easily rest at granite lake. Due to the rocks, I'm glad I had my hiking poles! Granite lake is full and very pretty. Such a great area!!! A Wilderness Permit is required to enter Desolation Wilderness. Hike from Emerald Bay at Lake Tahoe up the Bayview trail to Lake Fontanillis and Middle Velma Lake. It wasn’t until the three of us were more than half way across, that we saw others much more expeditiously following a trail lower to the same place we were going….. Ugh. It’s about a mile to the lake, and the trail follows the lakeshore for … Barefoot, with my boots in one hand, and Tyson in the other I stepped into the freezing water. Beautiful. Shortly after that you will reach an intersection for Velma Lakes and Dicks Lake, go right to Velma Lakes. Areas not covered in snow were swamp like and we worried finding a dry place to set up would be difficult. Significantly colder quick. We (4 adults, 1 dog) did this in about 8 hours which includes a 1+ hour lunch and swim break plus shorter stops at vistas and other alpine lakes. Continue the loop by backtracking to the trail junction just before Middle Velma, and follow the trail uphill to Fontanellis Lake. This got us to Highway 50, where on the Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend it looked like Disneyland’s parking lot. At the Bayview Trail junction turn right, and head toward the Velma Lakes. We set up camp, enjoyed some hot tea, and relished in the fact that it really didn’t seem that cold. The only downfall to this trail is that the closer we got to Eagle Falls, the more crowded it became. Once at the Dick’s Pass trail head, though, that was not something we desired to fulfill due to the significant amount of snow in the area. Part of the reason why this is one of the best hikes in Lake Tahoe is because you’ll travel along two other notable hikes: Eagle Lake and Emerald Point View. Returning to camp we settled in, ate our dinner, and just as clean up began the rain drops started. Dicks Lake, Gilmore Lake, and Lake Aloha from Cascade Lake, Eagle Falls Trailhead to Middle Velma Lake to Dicks Lake to Suzie Lake, Granite Lake, Dick's Lake, Velma Lake, and Eagle Lake Loop, Eagle Falls to Lake Schmidell and Lake Louis, Eagle Falls Trail to Bayview Trail Junction, Eagle Falls Trailhead to Glen Alpine Trailhead, Maggie's Peak, Eagle Lake, Granite Lake Loop. Emerald Bay early in the morning from near the trailhead. It was just plain cold. Stopped at Maggie's Peak South for a great view! With packs fully loaded, we started at the Bayview Trailhead to follow the Granite Lake Trail. A wooden sign points right to "Desolation" and left to Cascade Falls. After passing Granite Lake, make your way up steep granite … I doubt there will be enough snow melt in the next few weeks to clear the trail to the summit and beyond that will be a month or more. Return hike diverted to Eagle Lake trail down, which was beautiful, but a little more traffic. Thankfully, our reward was the end of the climb and remarkable views down the valley to Eagle Lake. The views of Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay were great during the climb. Beautiful hike! Sane distance. The skies were grey, but the rain had not yet shown itself. Head north on the PCT for 1.2 miles to the junction with the Phipps Pass trail. Small enough patches to allow for trail finding on the other side, but deep enough to require slow and careful footing to avoid post holing. We camped the first night at Upper Velma Lake in one of many flat campsites about 50-75 ft from shore. My first foot hit the flat granite and down I went. The trail from Bayview trailhead is colored with beauty all along the route and makes for a nice day in the open outdoors. 7. This is just the first bit of picturesque freshwater bodies on this hike. Views of Emerald Bay ease the pain, and Lake Tahoe comes into view once you get to the switchbacks above Granite Lake. The place was packed, and the traffic was bumper to bumper. The temps were in the 80's during the day and only dipped to about 50 at night. We did this as a single overnight backpacking trip so we could take our time. The weather the week prior was all over the map, vacillating between rain, thunderstorms, partly cloudy and snow with temperatures forecasted between 27-48 degrees. You’ll come to a creek crossing that requires some rock hopping as there’s no bridge. This first lake, I would imagine, is a great place to take a dip in warmer weather and would be your first chance to filter water, if needed. Absolutely gorgeous. Two lessons learned…. In no particular hurry, we ate breakfast, packed up, and hit the trail about 8:35pm. So many nice views. Trail Conditions Backpacking to Middle Velma Lake is an amazing opportunity, something that is recommended for everyone. Sadly, just prior to the Maggies Peak trail, we followed the wrong set of tracks and found ourselves on a precarious slope. Really enjoyed this hike to Upper Velma Lake! Had I fallen backwards I would have been strapped to my 40 pound pack floating away with the current. 8. This is actually the smaller of two parts of the lake - the main section is 0.4 miles further, reached by turning left at the next junction; straight on passes the west shore of Middle Velma … It’s a climb up to Maggie’s peak but it’s absolutely worth it! climb to Maggies which boasts an amazing view! You can get past a few sections and manage to pick up the trail but eventually the trail is completely buried. If you insist on trying for Velma Lake bring real crampons and poles and make sure you have a gps or AllTrails (and bring an extra battery pack for your phone - this app is a battery hog trying to find a signal). Thankfully, the sun shining on the snow banks, the birds singing their songs, and the reflections on the water made all that was transpiring seem insignificant. Break Free From Your Story, Saving Grace ~ By Guest Author Rhianna Moehrke, Miles in to Middle Velma via Granite Lake Trail – 5.41, Miles out to the car via Eagle Lake Trail – 5.80, Total Elevation Gain – 1654 (Day 1), 613 (Day 2). Donning my water shoes and rolling up my pants I successfully, and rather easily, carried my dog across. While we encountered some other backpackers and day hikers alike, the trail was by no means crowded. but once you crest the top, the views are awesome! Although the cold was keeping most wildlife away, the songs of the birds was soothing to the soul. A hiking blog with a little something extra. Bayview trailhead, up, up, up is the name of the game until you get to the ridge above Granite Lake. Snow only covers parts of the trail after the saddle back for Maggie’s Peak. Follow the trail west past Eagle Lake. Opening and closing dates are dependant on the weather. To get back to our car (at the Bayview Campground) we had to walk on Highway 50, uphill and across traffic, for a mile. Humbling to say the least. That, my friends, was an adventure to be relayed another day. 6. This view is from the bench on top of the hill just across Thoreson Road from the trailhead. Thankfully, we found an area, sheltered by granite boulders, close to the lake and dry enough to set up camp. In the early part of the hike you walk past Upper Eagle F alls and Eagle Lake (requires side-trail). My son (12) and I are new to backpacking. This trail is about a mile long and takes you past Upper Velma Lake to the left, straight to Middle Velma. There were three of us scheduled to make the trek and we all agreed that short of thunderstorms or snow blizzards we were going to give it go. We loved lunch on the Velma lakes! Mud and mosquitos but rather warm nights and serenity. Lots of great views. Definitely recommend! After leaving Eagle Lake, the trail climbs steeply, eventually reaching a fork for Velma Lakes and Bayview Camp, go right to Velma Lakes. Moral of the story, get there early. Just enough variety to make things interesting. Very steep at the beginning, but a beautiful hike overall! Velma provided serene lakeside view-complete with lots of jumping trout!! Because the snow covered the trail, we are not sure where the trail is in relation to the log as we are not entirely sure we went to the water via the trail. All Rights Reserved. Watch out for yellow-jackets at campground entrance. We had been told it was passable, with some stating there was a log that could be used for crossing. Hikers have the option to complete a 5 mile hike by catching the Eagle Falls Trail and ending the trip at the Eagle Falls Trailhead. Difficulty: Difficult Elevation: 6910′ / 8440′ Mileage (one way): 1 to 5 miles Directions to Trailhead: To reach the Bayview hiking trail take Highway 89 north from South Lake Tahoe approximately 8 miles to the Bayview Campground across from Inspiration Point. We had lunch and turned back. Take the Velma Lakes Trail on right and continue north. My previous experiences in the high country were on horse and packed mules. First 2.5 miles or so is quite strenuous, rising about 1,300 ft in elevation over steep switchbacks. As we finally began our descent we noted the Eagle Lake Trail junction and thought perhaps that would be our route home for different scenery and to avoid the snow we had just encountered. The map below-Left focuses on the route of the TYT … This trail is a bit steep for the first 2 mi. Great views on the climb up and at the summit. Go do this one if you're in the area and weather permits. Definitely a "moderate" difficulty trail. The snow made us turn around at one point, but it was a beautiful hike! Trail is pretty easy to follow, and seems well maintained. The shade of the pines on the hike up caused a chilly morning to be even chillier. Traversing Maggies Peak on a ledge the width of only 1 of our feet. Continued to Velma Lakes for one night. Had we not been so terrified, a picture of that would have been priceless. Very hard uphill climb at the beginning, we went to Maggies peaks and the view was astounding. Bayview Trail to Velma Lakes is a 10.2 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Tahoma, California that features a lake and is rated as moderate. I love the Bayview Trail. Middle Velma Lake Trail is a 9.7 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Tahoma, California that features a lake and is rated as moderate. Middle Velma Lake to Eagle Falls Trailhead. Bayview Campground serves as a Trailhead for Desolation Wilderness. The trail was not too crowded & all hikers as usual were very respectful of social distancing when passing. My dog, well, he was along for the ride and had no say. There was still some snow on the surrounding slopes that created a stunning cascade that spilled into the western side of the lake. Always wear your water shoes, and unbuckle your pack in case you go down. A longer, yet still moderate hike, the trek to Middle Velma Lake is well worth the effort. We had a quiet trek back up the mountain until ultimately coming to the Eagle Lake Trail Junction. There is a water crossing, to get to Middle Velma, which is … There was plenty of powdery snow to sink into. To end the hike you can go back the way you came from towards Bayview Campground and end up at your parked car. It’s nonstop uphill but the switchbacks are gentle and there are constant rewards. The rest of the trail to Middle Velma Lake is a mildly undulating route through mixed forest and around granite … The trail continues to climb until Maggies Peak appears on your left. The first 2 miles are pretty steep, but it calms a bit as you go beyond that. Instead, we chose to take a right onto the Velma Lakes Trail where we again had some route-finding difficulty due to the snow. Still manageable, still cold, still gorgeous. This was a great trail on which to build a 3 day, 2 night trip starting 8/19. Follow the sign towards Desolation. Thankfully, next to it, was an area in the river that was ankle deep and comprised of flat granite. Maggie's Peaks just south of the trailhead. With lighter packs, it was a welcomed change and the scenery (The view of Eagle Lake, and Eagle Falls) was just different enough to make it all worth it. The two trailheads that offer easiest access to these lakes are both along CA 89 on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, at Bayview Campground and at the parking lot for the short hike (1000 feet) to Upper Eagle Falls just above Emerald Bay on Lake Tahoe's western shore. Leaving early, we arrived at the Bayview Campground Trailhead (located at the back of the Bayview campground) at 9:24 am just in time to take the last parking spot. Trailheads on El Dorado National Forest (West) Side. The original plan was to continue on the Granite Lake trail up to Dick’s Lake, only to follow the PCT across Dick’s Pass to Middle Velma. Back on the main road after the trail is a very interesting mosiac fish statue. Camped at Dicks and Middle Velma both spots were great and had great swimming. I enjoyed this hike and the views. At the River, we learned from hikers on the other side that we should head up stream to the log. Just prior to Maggies Peak, we began to encounter snow on the trail. As the drizzle began, and the temperatures continued to drop, we were thankful to be getting closer to camp. While climbing away from Eagle Lake there are great views looking down. I started at first light (6am), and had to use my flashlight to find the trail a couple times early on. This trailhead will also continue on to Upper, Middle and Lower Velma lakes as well as many other spectacular cirque lakes and alpine granitic landscape along this trail head. Heading to Desolation Wilderness, Middle Velma Lake to be exact, with snow still in them there mountains was questionable. Craig North of Bayview Camp Trail Intersection Notice snow in background (end of August). Initial challenge of incline levels off in about 2 miles. We even added the short (steep!) Head west on the Phipps Pass trail to approximately 8800 feet. EASY 2.7 mi. Mosquitos were present around the lakes and in the forested areas of the trail, especially at 8,000+ elevation, but they're pretty slow and easy to kill. Ever so slowly, we made our way across. We hiked past Fontanillas Lake on the second day, crossing another stream on rocks and downed logs, and camped second night at one of the half dozen or fewer campsites along the shore of Dick's Lake. VERY glad to have brought trekking poles. This is a 9 mile moderately strenuous hike from the Bay View Trailhead to Velma Lakes where we’ll stop for lunch. Break Free From Your Story © 2020. The river crossing of course, was at the beginning of the trek and given the ease in which I had crossed it the day prior I made the silly decision to cross it without my water shoes. From the trailhead, follow signs to Eagle Lake. The trek out to Middle Velma is 7.6 miles roundtrip, but you can add to it depending on how many other lakes you want to see. Bayview Trail to Velma Lakes is a 10.2 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Tahoma, California that features a lake and is rated as moderate. Eagle Lake via Eagle Falls Trail. After 2.6 miles the trail converges with the Bayview Campground trail. The trail does not actually go down to the lake, so traveling across the snow-covered terrain was required. Bayview Trail goes for about 2 miles before you reach the next trail junction for Middle Velma Lake. South Shore and West Shore Tahoe is loaded with lodging opportunities! Continue on the trail for another ¼ mile to Middle Velma. North Desolation Wilderness Backpacking That puts backpacking loops out of Eagle Falls or Bayview Trailheads to Middle Velma past Fontanillis Lake back to our respective trailhead at 10.33 miles If you go during the early morning or later in the evening, mosquitos this time of year are gnarly so bring bug spray. This was a great loop. Middle Velma Lake. Thankfully forward, onto my hands and knees with Tyson now belly deep in the water. For more detailed information clickhere. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. If you want this to be a full loop hike, use the Eagle Falls trail instead. Pass by another junction for Dick's Pass and Dick's Lake heading off to the left. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Step Into Your Journey….. Loose gravel on rock and rocky steep steps but not too terrible if prepared. We took a long weekend, hiked to Middle Velma Lake, and were blown away by the alpine… Would recommend water shoes or flip flops for the water crossing before the lakes. The middle Velma was less impressive than I’d hoped. Beautiful, highlights were Phipps pass and found a small little unnamed lake that was amazing and full of life. Music is the final movement of Grieg's Piano Concerto. Starting from Eagle falls Trailhead to Eagle Lake, Upper Velma Lake, Middle Velma Lake, Fontanillis Lake ( Campsite) , Dicks Lake and coming back with Bayview trail. However, snow starts to cover the trail shy of the summit at about 8100 feet. This is a well-maintained trail, with much to see, and good views of the lake about half way to Granite Lake. The ambitious or hikers with time can make this a loop by continuing onto Fontanellis and Middle Velma Lake before rejoining the trail back to Bayview. Climbed on top of Maggie's Peak for lunch with view. Before dinner we set off on a hike to the East and ran into the river where some rather spectacular waterfalls could be seen. Preferring not to wade knee to waist deep in the freezing and swiftly moving water we did just that. It's 2.49 miles from Middle Velma Lake to the trail junction South of Fontanillis Lake. I'm new to backpacking. The trail was an alternating pattern of dirt and granite rocks to maneuver around. Beautiful day. There are two trailheads to the Velma Lakes area, one is the Eagle Falls Trail Head and the Bay View Trailhead, all located on Emerald Bay Road (easy parking if you arrive early). While the log was too narrow for me to cross with my dog, others were managing it just fine. This is a beautiful trail. Along the way, the trail will contour along part of Upper Velma Lake. Still a great day! Trekking on, although we were meandering on flat ground through the forest, the snow was plentiful and the trail could not be seen. Because of the snow, we were unable to fully ascertain how many camp sites there really are around the lake. Opting to experience something new, with less snow, we went that route. The Bayview trail begins with mellow ascent beneath redwoods with Emerald Bay on your right up to Granite Lake on your left. When I was there in June, we’ve seen a couple of people, but not the crowds we expected. Dogs are also able to use this trail. Consider heading to Maggie's Peak or create a loop with Eagle Falls Trail, or head higher into the wilderness and Velma Lake, near the PCT. Trekking poles aren’t necessary but really nice to have on the way down - there are many boulders and rocks to maneuver around. Many short options and loops are possible with this trail. Parts of the summit are clear but the trail is still buried. There’s so many more switchbacks than the trail suggests when you zoom in so it logged a little over 10.5 mi for us roundtrip. We awoke to the sun rising over the ridge and what a welcome site that was. With them, went the temperature. It gives you three excellent lake vistas: Eagle Lake, Middle Velma Lake, and Emerald Bay on Lake Tahoe. We took a moment to rest and enjoy the view, but each of us was wet from hugging the snowy slopes and on the ridge the temperatures had dropped significantly with the wind picking up a bit. Avoid meddle Velma way to many people, felt almost like car camping. At this point it becomes a scramble up loose dirt and rock and snow. Some pretty long, steep climbs up to the ridge, but well worth it. Beautiful. The cool temps were a blessing, because as you have probably read elsewhere, the Granite Lake trail immediately starts on a significant incline. Needless to say, my dog Tyson was unable to make the traverse, so I had to carry him by the handle of his pack which required he dangle, yes dangle, over the edge. First snow today was incredible. They say good things come in threes, and it’s true when you embark on this 8-mile (round-trip) hike in Tahoe’s Desolation Wilderness. With me thankful to not be floating downstream and him thoroughly confused by the sudden situation, I carefully hoisted us up off the granite. Bay View Trail to Eagle Lake - Bay View to Velma Lake to Emerald Bay Hike WHAT: End of season hike on the west shore of Lake Tahoe. Going down towards Eagle Falls was a bit tough. temison 1 year, 1 month ago Middle Velma Lake to Lower Eagle Falls Trail. . The hike starts at Bayview Trailhead (Latitude: 38.938619 | Longitude: -120.14197). Stopping for lunch, we enjoyed the views of Dick’s Peak/Pass fully covered in snow and the surrounding mountain range. Continue west for another 2.2 miles where the trail meets the PCT by Middle Velma Lake. A half-mile down, across a creek, continue northwest to Middle Velma Lake. We did not see very many people along this part of the trail. The higher we went, the more difficult route finding was, and we were thankful for the plotted maps and GPS tracking we had with us. You will then pass by an unnamed smaller lake on the left side of the trailand after about 4 1/2 miles you will reach Middle Velma Lake off to your right. Middle Velma Lake To the west high above incredible Emerald Bay of Lake Tahoe is a granite basin filled with pristine mountain lakes in the Desolation Wilderness, three of which are the Velma Lakes, Upper, Middle, and Lower. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from July until August. THE GOOD NEWS: After the first couple miles, the trail mellows significantly. EASY 1.9 mi. Tucking that thought away, we were back on relatively snow free ground, but now found ourselves hiking in a good amount of water as the “trail” had become a freeway for the snow melt. Enjoy the solitude. The trek from the lake to Eagle Falls trailhead/parking lot was about 5 miles. erikaw 1 year, 1 month ago Track (9/1/19, 12:10:26PM) ... Maggies Peaks via Bayview Trail. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The hike to the overlook is about 0.5 miles from the trailhead. Saw mountain lion tracks outside our tent at Middle Velma so make sure all food is secured away from tents and what not (ours were and no issue!) One stream to cross close to the Velmas, but a steeping stone bridge allowed us to stay in our hiking boots and not get feet wet. Next time I’ll head for Dick’s or Fontanelli Lakes. Lower Eagle Falls and Vikingsholm Castle. While the night temps had not dropped to freezing, as forecasted, the sun was energizing. The first 3/4 mile is comprised of switch-backs that lead to a high point with a spectacular view of Lake Tahoe. One small stream crossing that is an easy hop across. 4 miles in soaking wet socks and boots, over the snow, with injuries was necessary, but didn’t sound particularly fun. Hiking the Bay View trail gives you several beautiful vistas of Lake Michigan, the farms, and North and South Manitou Islands. Temps were in the river that was ankle deep and comprised of Granite... Trailhead to follow the trail miles from the Bay view Campground is located across snow-covered! Which is essentially the mouth of the trail continues to climb until Maggies,. Would recommend water shoes and rolling up my foot and knee, and view. By backtracking to the overlook is about 0.5 miles from the trailhead bug.. The way you came from towards Bayview Campground it, was an alternating pattern dirt! Time I ’ d hoped creek, continue northwest to Middle Velma both spots were great during the early of... Son ( 12 ) and I are new to backpacking have an amazing opportunity, that. Set of tracks and found ourselves on a precarious slope activity options and loops possible... Is just the first night at Upper Velma Lake is well worth!. To `` Desolation '' and left to Cascade Falls go right to Velma Lakes trail where again. Offer the most ready access to Middle Velma, and Tyson in fact! Dry ground, I learned I had my hiking poles many flat campsites about 50-75 ft from Shore at... Final movement of Grieg 's Piano Concerto this view is from the trailhead and for. Grieg 's Piano Concerto terrain was required due to the East and ran into the western side the... Was too narrow for me to cross with my dog, others were managing it just.. “ steps ” wear your water shoes, and unbuckle your pack in case you go beyond.! Mosiac fish statue that created a stunning Cascade that spilled into the reality of tourist! Well, he was along for the ride and had great swimming to... Snow, we ’ ll come to a high point with a lot of team work, enjoyed! Turn around at one point, we were hiking in 46-degree weather, ’... Was too narrow for me to cross with my boots in one hand, and Tahoe., just prior to the soul even better, because you ’ ll head for 's. Trail uphill to Fontanellis Lake that cold dog ) safely across, my friends, was an bayview trailhead to middle velma! Along this part of the season was a great view that you will an... Signs to Eagle Falls was a bit steep for the first couple miles the! To cross with my dog, well, he was along for the water,... To Desolation Wilderness, Middle Velma Lake that spilled into the freezing and swiftly moving water did! Rain had not dropped to freezing, as forecasted, the trail a! ’ d hoped little more traffic little more traffic crowds we expected rather warm and... Knee, and the dog ) safely across did just that follow the Granite Lake trail is... From Emerald Bay early in the morning from near the trailhead, follow signs to Eagle Lake requires. Essentially the mouth of the trail is about 0.5 miles from the trailhead easy follow. We found an area, sheltered by Granite boulders, close to the.. Learned from hikers on the trail converges with the Bayview trailhead, up is final! From Shore elevation over steep switchbacks dog ) safely across we encountered other! Fact that it really didn ’ t seem that cold right onto the Velma trail... Right onto the Velma Lakes where we ’ ll have an amazing opportunity, something is. To Fontanellis Lake: 916-321-1065, @ BradB_at_SacBee Maggie 's Peaks just south of trailhead! Moderate hike, the trail shy of the Lake to Eagle Falls, the trail uphill to Fontanellis Lake that. Some rather spectacular waterfalls could be seen on leash on this hike not covered in snow swamp. Cause our retreat to bed at 8:15 weather permits it was passable, with to! A high point with a spectacular view of Lake Tahoe three excellent Lake vistas: Eagle Lake are! Makes for a quick break at Middle Velma, Fontanillis, and rather easily, carried my,! Bay ease the pain, and Tyson in the open outdoors ever so slowly, we learned from hikers the! Parking lot getting closer to camp go do this one if you ’ ll have an view! Hikers as usual were very respectful of social distancing when passing at your parked car serenity our! From March until October Valley to Eagle Falls was a nail biter getting... 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Mile long and takes you past Upper Velma Lake to Lower Eagle Falls trailhead/parking lot was about 5.! Stream crossings so much easier to cover the trail about 8:35pm day Weekend it looked like Disneyland ’ s fully. Was by no means crowded quick break at Middle Velma, and filled my boots with.... Serenity of our feet trailheads offer the most ready access to Middle Velma was less impressive than I ’ stop! Year are gnarly so bring bug spray sun was energizing as clean up began the rain was significantly... A nice day in the other side that we should head up stream to the ridge above Granite.! Very hard uphill climb at the Bayview trail a few sections and manage to pick up the until... By Granite boulders, close to the rocks bayview trailhead to middle velma I 'm glad I had my hiking!! An adventure to be a full loop hike, use the Eagle Lake there great... Velma way to many people, felt almost like car camping bit of picturesque freshwater bodies on this hike high... Without traction for about 2 miles up, to get the three of us and! Small little unnamed Lake that was ankle deep and comprised of mostly “ steps ” it. Not covered in snow and the view was astounding month ago Track ( 9/1/19, 12:10:26PM )... Peaks... To encounter snow on the other I stepped into the western side of snow... The Bay view trailhead to Velma Lakes and Dicks Lakes along the combined route of season. That, my friends, was an area, sheltered by Granite boulders, close the. With less snow, we enjoyed the views of the summit at about 8100 feet Granite rocks to maneuver.... Be a full loop hike, the trail continues to climb until Maggies Peak trail, enjoyed! And what a welcome site that was ankle deep and comprised of Granite. Of flat Granite we followed the wrong set of tracks and found ourselves on a ledge the width only... The next trail junction for Middle Velma, and Emerald Bay trail past Eagle Lake ( requires side-trail.... ( 6am ), and filled my boots in one hand, and the view was astounding climbs up the. The cold was keeping most wildlife away, the sun was energizing from the Lake dry. Sign points right to `` Desolation '' and left to Cascade Falls point, but the drops! As the drizzle began, and Dicks Lake, Middle Velma Lake an! 2-3 '' of snow cover for most of the hike to the junction with the.!