Lyons Reservoir, Sonora

Trails are spread everywhere across the mountains. There is something for everyone in the Sonora Pass region, as there are all kind of trails, easy, intermediate and high elevation and also long day adventures. One of the best trails to go backpacking is Twain Harte to Lyons Reservoir – Railroad Grade.

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It is a 4.5 mi/7.24 km, moderate trail with elevation gain of 200 ft/61 m. It is a gentle trail to Lyons Reservoir, that follows an old Sugar Pine Railroad grade. In early spring, it usually opens at an elevation of 4000 ft/1219 m. Lyons is a beautiful lake to visit. Hike around the lake on an easy level trail across the dam.

At the south end of the lake is the dam, which has a dramatic spill way, draining the lake into a magnificent picturesque canyon below the dam. In late summer and fall the lake drops, as the water is used by the Tuolumne water district. You can camp near and around the lake.