Carson Peak as seen from the Gull Lake Marina
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Gull Lake June Lake California

4.9
·57 reviews·June Lake, United States

A serene alpine lake in California's Eastern Sierra, offering stunning mountain views, a scenic loop trail, and excellent fishing.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-October

Peak fall colors

CrowdMedium
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Carson Peak as seen from the Gull Lake Marina

Gull Lake June Lake California

Best Time

Mid-October

Peak fall colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene alpine lake in California's Eastern Sierra, offering stunning mountain views, a scenic loop trail, and excellent fishing.

4.9
(57 reviews)

"Incredibly beautiful lake overlooking the June Lake area, in particular the massive 11,000ft Carson Peak."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking is Easy & Free

Ample free parking available near the playground and marina. Easy access for paddle boards and boats.

🥾 Hike the Loop Trail

Enjoy a scenic one-hour hike around the lake; 80% single track, great for dogs off-leash in quieter sections.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Carson Peak Views

Carson Peak Views

Overlooking Gull Lake

Majestic 11,000ft peak providing a stunning backdrop, especially with partially frozen lake views in winter.

Gull Lake Loop Trail

Gull Lake Loop Trail

Around Gull Lake

An easy, scenic one-hour hike offering diverse terrain and peaceful solitude, with a rope swing for a refreshing dip.

Autumn Brewfest

Autumn Brewfest

Gull Lake Park

Annual fall festival featuring craft beer, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in late September.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Fall Colors

If you're chasing the vibrant autumn foliage, aim for mid-October. The June Lake Loop, including Gull Lake, transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of reds, oranges, and yellows. Arrive early on weekdays to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photos.

Embrace the Outdoors: Trails & Activities

Gull Lake offers a fantastic one-hour loop trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more brisk hike. It winds through varied terrain, including single track and campground roads. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for potential off-leash dog areas.

Best Times

When
Mid-October
Why
Peak fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, best light
Crowd
Low
When
Winter
Why
Frozen lake beauty
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Camping trip series: Day 4 | June Lake Beach🩵 #fyp #junelake #junelakebeach #california #camping #campseries
@bytayb
336.6K likes • 4.2M views

🚗 Parking is Easy & Free

Ample free parking available near the playground and marina. Easy access for paddle boards and boats. Reddit

🥾 Hike the Loop Trail

Enjoy a scenic one-hour hike around the lake; 80% single track, great for dogs off-leash in quieter sections. Reddit

Just beautiful 🥺 #California #Summer #FordMaverick #bucketlist #travel #junelake #ca #MyColoredHair @monocountytourism #justvibing #traveltiktok
@brittanyvibes
318.7K likes • 2.4M views
June Lake Loop is a must do if you’re chasing Fall Colors in California. Lakes to checkout in this 14 mile scenic route: 1. June Lake 2. Gull Lake 3. Silver Lake 4. Grant Lake Tip: Start your drive from South since all the lakes will be on your right. Photos taken on Oct 22, 2023 #california #fallcolors #autumn #junelakeloop #junelake #sierras #hellocalifornia #colormecurious #roadtripusa
colorme__curious
69 likes • 1.8K views

🎣 Cast a Line for Trout

Gull Lake is known for rainbow trout fishing. Bring your gear for a peaceful angling experience. InstagramReddit

🍂 Chase Fall Colors

Visit in October for stunning autumn foliage along the June Lake Loop, including Gull Lake. Instagram+1

📍June Lake Loop in California is a hidden gem located in the state route 158 and a 14 mile drive. . Four lakes (June lake, Silver lake, Grant lake and Gull lake) stunning mountain vistas, and serene forests add elegance and are perfect for nature escapes and photography. . Should visit for scenic drives, fishing, and hiking amidst breathtaking Eastern Sierra beauty. . #mammothmountain #junelake...
sabs.wandering_colors
37 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking is Easy & Free

Ample free parking available near the playground and marina. Easy access for paddle boards and boats. Reddit

🥾 Hike the Loop Trail

Enjoy a scenic one-hour hike around the lake; 80% single track, great for dogs off-leash in quieter sections. Reddit

🎣 Cast a Line for Trout

Gull Lake is known for rainbow trout fishing. Bring your gear for a peaceful angling experience. InstagramReddit

🍂 Chase Fall Colors

Visit in October for stunning autumn foliage along the June Lake Loop, including Gull Lake. Instagram+1

📸 Capture Mountain Vistas

Breathtaking scenery with mountains like Carson Peak. Perfect for photography enthusiasts. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.9
(57 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Gull Lake's raw beauty and peaceful atmosphere, highlighting the stunning mountain scenery and the enjoyable loop trail. Many appreciate the free parking and access for water activities like fishing and paddleboarding. While generally positive, some may find the trail occasionally shares space with campground roads.

"Wonderful little hidden lake. There’s an easy one-hour hike around the lake that starts on a small trail just above the playground or at the far end of the marina. Easy & free parking. Relatively easy to maintain the trail. 80% single track, but also on camp roads and thru a campground. There’s a rope swing into the water at the west end. I kept my dog on the leash near the start and end, but otherwise he was off leash and we saw hardly anyone. Free launch sites for paddle boards and boats. Picnic tables, shaded grass, large charcoal grills, fire pits & plenty of sweet fishing nooks as well. Probably boondocks camping back the dirt roads nearby."

Sherry S.

"Raw beauty, peaceful lake. Great picnic area, nice trails. Fishing."

MyVisit MyView

"We enjoyed our time at Gull Lake. Great scenery and had fun fishing for rainbow trout... The facility folks are friendly and helpful..."

James J.

What People Like

Stunning mountain scenery
Peaceful and raw beauty
Easy loop trail

What People Dislike

Trail shares campground roads

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gull Lake is part of the scenic June Lake Loop, accessible via State Route 158. It's located in California's Eastern Sierra region, a popular stop on Highway 395. The loop itself is about 14-16 miles long and passes by four lakes: June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake. Instagram+1

Yes, the June Lake Loop is a well-maintained scenic drive. You can drive and park at various points, including Horseshoe Lake, to enjoy the views and access trails. Reddit

Many visitors recommend driving the loop from south to north to have the lakes on your right-hand side for easier pull-offs and views. Instagram

Road conditions are generally good, but it's always wise to check local advisories, especially during winter months when snow can impact access. TikTok

Yes, RVs can access areas around Gull Lake, with options like Goldenpine RV Park located nearby. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to Gull Lake and its surrounding park areas is generally free. Parking is also free, making it an accessible destination for all visitors. Reddit

Gull Lake Park and its amenities, like picnic areas and trails, are typically open from dawn to dusk. Specific event hours, like the Autumn Brewfest, will vary. Instagram

For a standard day visit, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to attend special events like the Autumn Brewfest, purchasing tickets or wristbands in advance is recommended. Instagram

No, there are free launch sites available for paddle boards and boats, making it easy to get on the water. Reddit

For the Autumn Brewfest, you can pick up wristbands and tasting glasses in advance from June Lake Brewing on the Friday before the event. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Gull Lake offers a variety of activities including hiking the loop trail, fishing for rainbow trout, picnicking with provided tables and grills, and enjoying the scenic mountain views. InstagramReddit

Yes, there's an easy one-hour loop trail that circles the lake, featuring 80% single track and passing through campgrounds. It's well-maintained and offers beautiful scenery. Reddit

Dogs are welcome at Gull Lake. While it's advised to keep them on a leash near the start and end of the trail, there are sections where they can be off-leash, especially when fewer people are around. Reddit

You'll find picnic tables, shaded grass areas, large charcoal grills, fire pits, and fishing nooks. There's also a playground located right next to the lake. Reddit

Yes, there's a rope swing at the west end of the lake, suggesting it's a popular spot for swimming and cooling off during warmer months. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Gull Lake offers stunning photo opportunities with the towering Carson Peak as a backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset. The autumn foliage in October provides vibrant colors, and the partially frozen lake in winter creates unique shots. Instagram+2

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the golden hour glow on the mountains and lake. TikTok

The entire June Lake Loop offers picturesque views, but specific points along the shoreline of Gull Lake provide excellent vantage points for capturing the lake and surrounding peaks. The GPS coordinates for one specific view are 37.7773544, -119.0802486. Instagram

Gull Lake is ideal for landscape photography, nature photography, and capturing scenic road trip moments. It's also a great spot for portraits with a beautiful natural background. TikTokInstagram

While not explicitly mentioned, drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local park rules and FAA guidelines before flying a drone in the area. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gull Lake is a fantastic spot for families. The easy one-hour loop trail is manageable for little legs, and the playground right next to the lake provides endless entertainment. Reddit There are also picnic tables and grills, making it ideal for a family picnic. The free parking and free launch sites for paddle boards add to the convenience. Reddit

Consider bringing along some fishing gear, as the lake is known for rainbow trout, which can be an exciting activity for kids. The generally calm waters and the option for a refreshing dip (thanks to the rope swing!) make it a well-rounded family destination. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers

Gull Lake is a highlight of the June Lake Loop, a must-drive scenic route off Highway 395. The loop offers stunning mountain vistas and access to four beautiful lakes, with Gull Lake being one of its gems. Instagram+1 The drive itself is spectacular, especially during fall foliage season in October, when the landscape explodes with color. Instagram

Plan to stop frequently at the designated pull-offs to soak in the views and capture photos. Gull Lake provides ample free parking and easy access to the shoreline, making it a perfect spot to stretch your legs, enjoy a picnic, or even take a short hike. Reddit It's an ideal stop for anyone on a California road trip seeking natural beauty and tranquility. TikTok

🎣 Anglers & Outdoor Enthusiasts

For fishing enthusiasts, Gull Lake is a prime spot for catching rainbow trout. The lake offers numerous fishing nooks and a peaceful environment to cast your line. Reddit The availability of free launch sites for boats and paddle boards also means you can easily access different parts of the lake for a better fishing experience. Reddit

Beyond fishing, the loop trail provides a great opportunity for a hike with rewarding views. The picnic areas with grills are perfect for a post-fishing or post-hike meal. Whether you're camping nearby or visiting for the day, Gull Lake caters to a love for the outdoors. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The June Lake Loop: A Scenic Gem

The June Lake Loop is a 14-mile scenic byway (State Route 158) that winds through the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, connecting four stunning alpine lakes: June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake, and Grant Lake. This loop is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, offering dramatic mountain vistas, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests. It's a popular route for scenic drives, photography, fishing, and hiking, especially during the vibrant fall colors season. Instagram+1

Travelers often describe the loop as a more serene alternative to nearby Mammoth Lakes, providing a peaceful escape into nature. The drive itself is an experience, with numerous pull-offs allowing visitors to stop and admire the scenery. Each lake has its own unique charm, from the larger June Lake with its village amenities to the smaller, more intimate Gull Lake. TikTokInstagram

Whether you're looking for a leisurely drive, a challenging hike, or a quiet spot to fish, the June Lake Loop offers something for everyone. It's a must-visit for anyone traveling along Highway 395 in California, promising unforgettable views and a deep connection with the Sierra Nevada landscape. TikTokInstagram

Fishing and Water Activities at Gull Lake

Gull Lake is a popular destination for fishing, particularly for rainbow trout. The lake's clear waters and scenic surroundings make for a tranquil fishing experience. Visitors have reported successful fishing trips, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the beauty of the Eastern Sierra. InstagramReddit

Beyond fishing, Gull Lake is also suitable for other water activities. There are free launch sites available for paddle boards and boats, allowing visitors to explore the lake from the water. The presence of a rope swing at the west end suggests that swimming and enjoying the cool alpine water are also popular pastimes during the warmer months. Reddit

Whether you're an avid angler or simply looking to enjoy the water, Gull Lake provides ample opportunities. The combination of accessible fishing spots, free launch facilities, and refreshing swimming options makes it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Instagram

Autumn Brewfest: A Seasonal Celebration

The June Lake Autumn Brewfest is a highly anticipated annual event held at Gull Lake Park, typically in late September. This festival celebrates the arrival of fall with a focus on craft beer, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the local culture and enjoy the crisp autumn air. Instagram

Attendees can enjoy a variety of craft beers from regional breweries, often accompanied by food vendors and entertainment. The event usually runs from late morning to early evening, with specific timings for the craft beer garden. Visitors are encouraged to pick up their tasting glasses and wristbands in advance to streamline their experience on the day of the festival. Instagram

This event transforms Gull Lake Park into a lively hub, drawing locals and visitors alike to celebrate the season. It's a perfect addition to a fall visit to the June Lake Loop, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and festive fun. Instagram

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