Lake Aloha - Desolation Wilderness, CA

Trailhead - Echo Lake

15 miles RT

1770' elevation gain

Difficulty: Moderate

This is a long day hike/15 miles RT from Echo Lake passing 5 alpine lakes to reach Lake Aloha  - a prime swimming spot of beautiful Desolation Wilderness.  The hike to Lake Aloha is a must do hike in Desolation Wilderness to experience what Desolation Wilderness offers....alpine lakes, wildflowers, wildlife, alpine peaks and a remote sense of wilderness. 

The trail is mostly flat through the hike with some sections of elevation gain, and also gets rocky part of the way. You will pass by 5 lakes in this hike. Enjoy the views of the alpine lakes....and swimming if you like! I saw hikers sunbathing, napping and of course, swimming in the lake(s)....there is no better way to relax than swimming after a long hike in a hot summer day! Lake Aloha is gorgeous with pristine water surrounded by alpine boulders and picturesque peaks. It's a great place for camping and backpacking so that you can explore the area more leisurely. 

For a side trip, I recommend to stop by Lake of the Woods located near Lake Aloha.  You can hike there on the way to/from Lake Aloha as the trail sign directs.