Things to Do

Things to do…

Located in Central California, the Eldorado National Forest stretches from the foothills at the 1000 foot level to Sierra Nevada peaks over 10,000 feet .  The almost 600,000 acres have something for everyone, for every season.   Recreational opportunities abound for visitors of all ages and activity levels. Stay in a quiet cabin, water ski at Bear River Reservoir, hike a section of the Pacific Crest Trial, or drive a portion of the Mormon Emigrant Trail.  Come explore, enjoy and experience the forest.  For more information, use the highlighted links and the Forest Service Recreational Opportunity Guides or contact the local ranger station.

• Bicycling

Most trails (with the exception of those in Wilderness Areas) allow mountain biking.  The trails range from backcountry roads to paved bike trails.  Many trails are shared with both hikers and horses.  Remember horses and hikers have the right of way over bikers.  For more information on mountain biking, check out the Eldorado Forest guide for the Fleming Meadow Trail System.

• Camping and Cabins

Want to get away from the city, enjoy a cooler summer, experience the forest?  Try one of the campgrounds or a cabin if you prefer real walls.   With over 80 developed campgrounds and 5 Forest Service cabins available, there are many options along Highway 50 and Highway 88.

• Picnicking

Numerous developed day use areas are found along both Highways 50 and 88.  Not only providing great picnic spots, many of the areas also have access to fishing, kayaking, and trails.   Out for a day, try Crystal Basin, Silver Lake or the Georgetown area for a variety of activities.

• Water Activities

While the small mountain lakes can offer a brisk swim, the larger reservoirs in the Forest offer opportunities for motorized boating, waterskiing,  kayaking and canoeing, and windsurfing as well as swimming.