The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Virginia Lakes
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If you've ever tried planning hiking around Virginia Lakes, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many stunning alpine lakes and trails, how do you pick the ones truly worth your precious time and effort? That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed countless routes here, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best, saving you the guesswork.
Hiking around Virginia Lakes is a true high-alpine experience, with trails winding through rugged peaks, high meadows, and dense forests, all above 9,000 feet. It's a place where you'll find everything from gentle lakeside strolls to more demanding ascents into the Hoover Wilderness. Expect dramatic scenery and clear mountain air, but remember that the best time to visit for hiking is typically during the summer and early fall when trails are clear of snow.
If you only do one hike, make it the Big Virginia Lake to Frog Lakes route. At just 1.7 miles (2.7 km), it's an easy win for families and offers incredible views of multiple alpine lakes for minimal effort. For a slightly longer, equally rewarding experience, the Green Creek Trail (3.3 miles / 5.4 km) winds through beautiful aspen groves and offers scenic views within the Hoover Wilderness. Dive in and discover why more than 150 hikers have already used komoot to explore this incredible region.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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The Big Virginia Lake to Frog Lakes trail offers an incredible concentration of alpine beauty for minimal effort. This easy 1.7-mile (2.7 km) hike, which takes about 50 minutes to complete, climbs 573 feet (175 metres) through a landscape dotted with pristine lakes. You'll journey past Big Virginia Lake, Blue Lake, and the stunning Cooney Lake with its feeding waterfall, before reaching the unique, shallow Frog Lakes nestled in a tundra basin. It's a perfect choice for families or anyone seeking high-reward scenery without an overly strenuous climb.
Access the trail from the Virginia Lakes Trailhead, located at nearly 10,000 feet elevation. Due to its popularity, especially for such a rewarding route, parking can fill up quickly, so plan to arrive early. While the trail is generally accessible, be mindful of the high altitude, which can make even an easy hike feel more challenging. Early October is particularly scenic, with vibrant fall colors along the drive to the trailhead.
This route is a highlight of the Hoover Wilderness, known for its exceptional "scenery per mile" and historical elements like an old miner's cabin. The area is also popular for fishing, particularly for brook trout in the Frog Lakes, and serves as a gateway for longer backpacking trips deeper into the wilderness. It's a fantastic way to experience the Eastern Sierra's rugged peaks and alpine lakes.
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The Green Creek Trail to Blue Lake offers a delightful, quick escape into the Hoover Wilderness, leading you through mixed forests and dirt paths to a pristine alpine lake. You'll experience the beauty of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, with glimpses of pine trees and rocky slopes reflected in the water, all without a strenuous climb. The area is especially known for its vibrant fall foliage, with aspens glowing along Green Creek Canyon, making it a picturesque journey even for a short distance.
Accessing this trail is straightforward from the trailhead near Bridgeport, California. While day hikers typically don't need permits, it's worth noting that overnight stays in the Hoover Wilderness do require one. This easy 0.5-mile (0.9 km) route, with only 102 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 14 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick visit. Consider visiting in autumn to witness the stunning fall colors.
This specific route to Blue Lake (Hoover Wilderness) is a small part of a much larger Green Creek Trail system, which can range from moderate to difficult and access other lakes like Green Lake and East Lake. The Hoover Wilderness is a gateway for backpackers heading further into Yosemite National Park, and the trail itself is a local favorite for its accessibility to high-alpine scenery. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as beavers are known to be active in the canyon.
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The Green Creek Trail offers a delightful journey into the Eastern Sierra Nevada, winding through lush forests and wooded canyons. You'll experience the serene beauty of gurgling waters and dramatic mountain landscapes, with the trail providing access to the pristine Hoover Wilderness. The route is especially renowned for its spectacular fall colors when the aspen groves ignite with vibrant hues, making it a visual treat for nature lovers.
This easy hiking route covers 3.3 miles (5.4 km) with a gentle 574 feet (175 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 36 minutes. It's a fantastic choice for a relaxed outing, and dogs are generally welcome. While this segment is accessible, remember that the broader Green Creek area can lead to more challenging terrain, and overnight stays in the Hoover Wilderness require permits. Plan your visit from late spring to fall for the best conditions.
Beyond its immediate charm, the Green Creek Trail serves as a gateway to a network of trails leading to stunning alpine lakes like Blue Lake, Cooney Lake, and Upper Frog Lake. It's a popular starting point for backpackers venturing deeper into the wilderness, even offering connections towards Yosemite National Park. The contrasting rock and granite formations, carved by glaciers, add to the unique geological appeal of this Eastern Sierra gem.
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Tips from the Community
Blue Lake is the first lake along the Green Creek Trail. It is set in a beautiful wooded area and gives you a great view of Black Mountain. The banks of the lake are a great spot for a break to soak up the beauty of the area.
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Here is the Frog Lake. This high altitude valley has so many lakes that it has been nicknamed "Big Valley Lakes". The valley is part of the Tolyabe National Forest.
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This second Alpine lake almost touches the mountain that overlooks it. At least that's the impression we get.
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The Blue Lake is the first of a series of three that you will see during this easy hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Virginia Lakes?
The Virginia Lakes area offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 6 routes, with 4 of them rated as easy and 2 as moderate, making them suitable for various family abilities.
What kind of scenery can we expect on these family hikes?
You can expect stunning alpine landscapes, with prominent peaks like Dunderberg Peak and Black Mountain forming a dramatic backdrop. The trails often traverse high alpine meadows, lush forests, and serene lake basins. The region is known for its exceptional 'scenery per mile,' with numerous picturesque lakes, including Big Virginia Lake, Red Lake, and Blue Lake, being a constant highlight.
Are there trails suitable for very young children or strollers?
While many trails are family-friendly, the terrain around Virginia Lakes is generally rugged and at high elevation, making most routes unsuitable for strollers. However, trails like Green Creek Trail to Blue Lake are relatively short and easy, making them more manageable for young children who can walk or be carried in a carrier.
Which easy hikes are recommended for families with young kids?
For an easy and rewarding experience, consider the Big Virginia Lake to Frog Lakes trail. It's just under 2 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain, leading to beautiful alpine lakes. Another great option is the Green Creek Trail to Blue Lake, which is even shorter at less than a mile and offers lovely lake views.
Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks to look out for along the trails?
Yes, the area is rich with natural beauty. Many trails lead to or pass by beautiful alpine lakes. You might encounter Blue Lake (Hoover Wilderness), Cooney Lake, and Upper Frog Lake. The Virginia Lakes Trailhead itself provides access to several lakes, with the first lake directly at the parking lot.
What is the best time of year to hike with family in Virginia Lakes?
The best time to visit Virginia Lakes for family hiking is typically from late spring through early fall, once the snow has melted and before winter conditions set in. Summer offers pleasant temperatures and full access to all trails, making it ideal for families. The high elevation means cooler temperatures even in summer, providing a comfortable hiking experience.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
The Virginia Lakes area is generally dog-friendly, as it provides access to the Hoover Wilderness. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations and ensure your dog is on a leash to protect wildlife and other hikers. Remember to pack out all waste.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, the main Virginia Lakes Trailhead offers parking, which is a convenient starting point for many of the area's hikes. Given the popularity of the region, especially during peak season, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
While many trails in the immediate Virginia Lakes area are out-and-back to specific lakes, longer options like the Shamrock Lake โ Excelsior Lake loop (4.3 miles) exist for families seeking a circular route. For a simpler out-and-back that feels like a journey, the Green Creek Trail offers varied scenery through aspen groves.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Virginia Lakes?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning alpine scenery, the abundance of beautiful lakes, and the quiet, cozy atmosphere that makes it an ideal escape from crowds. The 'scenery per mile' is frequently highlighted as a major draw.
Are there less crowded options for families seeking a quieter experience?
The isolated location of Virginia Lakes, tucked beneath Dunderberg Peak and Black Mountain, generally contributes to a quieter atmosphere compared to more heavily trafficked areas. To avoid crowds, consider hiking early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially on weekdays. Exploring some of the slightly longer, moderate trails might also lead to a more secluded experience.
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