There’s just something about paddling on the open water, your sightline just a foot or two above the surface. It provides a different perspective on life and how much water is a part of all areas of our daily existence.

Whether you’re an avid kayaker, or only engage in it as an occasional recreational pursuit, Gold Lake is one of the best kayaking lakes in California.

Gold Lake is located only a 20-minute drive from Sierra City off of the tiny Gold Lake Highway (also known as Plumas County Road #S620), just north of Highway 49 and east of Highway 89.
AllTrails Bennett Borofka
Resting at approximately 6,400 feet of elevation and surrounded by rugged towering mountains, you can’t help but feel connected to the landscape here.
Andrea Jeuck/AllTrails
The dense foliage creates a sort of protected bowl from the outside world.
While on the water, you’ll see an abundance of wildlife popping in and out along the shores and surrounding hillsides.
Benjamin McGinley/AllTrails
It’s important to note that there is also another Gold Lake. That one, which is much smaller, is located in a remote area in the Bucks Lake Wilderness.

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This part of the country offers a spectacular topography, as it is the part of the Sierra Nevada Mountains that was once an active volcano area.
Benjamin McGinley/AllTrails
A large number of visitors hike to the lake via a somewhat rocky yet still exciting 3.1-mile (roundtrip) trail.
Even in summer the lake temperature can be quite cold so be sure to dress appropriately.
Benjamin McGinley/AllTrails
Boating, camping, horseback riding, mountain biking, and of course, hiking, are also among the many outdoor pursuits that draw people from all over the state and Pacific Northwest region.
Imagine the pioneers who crossed this unforgiving terrain during California’s Gold Rush era.
Maddie Jaynes/AllTrails
Even in winter the views are breathtaking.

Surrounded by rugged towering mountains, awe-inspiring natural peaks, and fresh mountain air, Gold Lake is one of the best places to kayak in, well, the Golden State!

Have you been to Gold Lake? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience there.

If you are looking for other kayaking adventures, here’s where you can Get Up Close To Whales And Wildlife On The Trinidad Bay Kayak Tour In Northern California

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