Ellis Lake - East Side! (Of the Rubicon)

[TheStick]

So after more research (see other thread), Ellis Lake looks awesome.

Some background, I didn't plan too far in advance, so I am looking for a place that I can feel comfortable going in alone (although the more the merrier). The trek up to Ellis Lake looks like it would fit the bill. I would like to take the (from what I've read) harder trail by Buck Lake in, and then camp by Ellis Lake, and take a day trip on Saturday to Ellis Peak.

Just looking for information from others that have done this trail.

Cool to do alone? (JKUR on 35's)

Good camping spots by the lake?

I figure on the plus side it's not that far in so if something breaks the hike down would be doable. Any information I can get would be appreciated! :thumb:

 

[TheStick]

So I called Tahoe National Forest and apparently camping at Ellis isn't allowed. I would like to wish freedom it's best while it goes to heaven.

Anyways, camping at Buck Lake is allowed. The girl I talked to didn't even know why this was.

Man, in the late '90s I did a lot of backpacking, the rules are getting so hard to follow, back then we didn't think about it. Just hike and camp.

 

[justin mazzon]

So I called Tahoe National Forest and apparently camping at Ellis isn't allowed. I would like to wish freedom it's best while it goes to heaven.

Anyways, camping at Buck Lake is allowed. The girl I talked to didn't even know why this was.

Man, in the late '90s I did a lot of backpacking, the rules are getting so hard to follow, back then we didn't think about it. Just hike and camp.

Me too! Some Free Country! B.S.

 

[Rccrwlr]

From the internets!

Blackwood Canyon, Ellis Peak 4x4 Road, California

Overview: Explores a beautiful, high area west of Lake Tahoe and is near the east end of the famous Rubicon Trail. Many lakes and viewpoints. Trail may not open until early July due to deer migration. Kaspian Campground and Picnic Area located on Highway 89 where you turn west on Barker Pass Road to reach trail. Trail is located in the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. For trail conditions and opening dates, call (530) 543-2600.

Moderate. Narrow, steep and rough in a few places but suitable for stock, high clearance SUVs. Some tight brush. Be careful when wet.


--rccrwlr

 

[TheStick]

Internets!

That is actually a different way in. I'm going in on the Buck Lake trail that spurs off the Rubicon.

 

[pastorwug]

Bear Lake is a beautiful spot on the east side of the Rubi as well, easy to get to, past the east staging area.

 

[TheStick]

Bear Lake is a beautiful spot on the east side of the Rubi as well, easy to get to, past the east staging area.

I was looking into this as well, does look like a cool spot. I am hoping to get up early enough to check a few spots out before setting up and picking the best spot we can find. Hopefully not too many people up there.

 

[pastorwug]

I was looking into this as well, does look like a cool spot. I am hoping to get up early enough to check a few spots out before setting up and picking the best spot we can find. Hopefully not too many people up there.

There was no one there when we went, and that was in the middle of last summer on a weekend. Not that easy to get there, definately a 4WD road


Sent from my iPhone using WAYALIFE mobile app

 

[TheStick]

There was no one there when we went, and that was in the middle of last summer on a weekend. Not that easy to get there, definately a 4WD road


Sent from my iPhone using WAYALIFE mobile app

Nice, sounds perfect :thumb:

 

[justin mazzon]

So after more research (see other thread), Ellis Lake looks awesome.

Some background, I didn't plan too far in advance, so I am looking for a place that I can feel comfortable going in alone (although the more the merrier). The trek up to Ellis Lake looks like it would fit the bill. I would like to take the (from what I've read) harder trail by Buck Lake in, and then camp by Ellis Lake, and take a day trip on Saturday to Ellis Peak.

Just looking for information from others that have done this trail.

Cool to do alone? (JKUR on 35's)

Good camping spots by the lake?

I figure on the plus side it's not that far in so if something breaks the hike down would be doable. Any information I can get would be appreciated! :thumb:

I've been jeeping for a about a year, could a 13 wrangler sport with 3.5" lift and 33" tires make it on this trail?

 

[pastorwug]

I've been jeeping for a about a year, could a 13 wrangler sport with 3.5" lift and 33" tires make it on this trail?

My JKUR was stock, but needed 4wd for sure


Sent from my iPhone using WAYALIFE mobile app

 

[justin mazzon]

My JKUR was stock, but needed 4wd for sure


Sent from my iPhone using WAYALIFE mobile app

Hi:

Of coarse you had lockers. Do you think they are necesary?

 

[jhires]

My JKUR was stock, but needed 4wd for sure


Sent from my iPhone using WAYALIFE mobile app

This sounds like it might be a fun adventure. Any pics?

 

[TheStick]

Really cool spot. Had a great weekend!




Have some pics on the camera I'll have to get to. Overall a really cool spot.

 

[TheStick]

I've been jeeping for a about a year, could a 13 wrangler sport with 3.5" lift and 33" tires make it on this trail?

I think you'd be fine. I'd want rock rails though.

 

[justin mazzon]

I think you'd be fine. I'd want rock rails though.

Nice pictures and great spot. Looks like a fun intermediate trail I could make. Next time.

-J

 

[TheStick]

Here's a little vid to get an idea of the trail. Some of this is above Bucks Lake on the way to Ellis Peak.

Anyone interested in this trip I'd love to go again with a group :thumb:

 

[LVJeepney]

I've been jeeping for a about a year, could a 13 wrangler sport with 3.5" lift and 33" tires make it on this trail?

I just completed the rubicon trail with my rig, first time running the trail. 2013 JKU sport with 35" 2.5 lift, I have locker in the rear but didn't use. Sliders are a must.. Very doable


Sent from my iPhone using WAYALIFE mobile app

 

[Blue Weim]

Ellis LAke

I think you'd be fine. I'd want rock rails though.

Do you have any plans to make the run again anytime again in the near future.

 

[TheStick]

Do you have any plans to make the run again anytime again in the near future.

I'd definitely like to.

I may be doing the Gold Lake area in a couple weeks. It's a little more moderate than this trail. Beautiful and fun though!