Very Scenic

This trail is slightly longer than most but the ever changing scenery will make time go fast.  Round trip, it is 13.6 miles to Grand Park and 18.8 miles to Lake Eleanor.  The trail will start at 6,400 ft. elevation and ascend another 500 ft. in the first 1.5 miles before beginning the slow descent to approximately 5,400 ft. elevation in Grand Park.  Unfortunately, that means a 1,500 ft. ascent on the way back.

From the visitor center picnic area, follow the Sourdough Ridge trail to Frozen Lake, keeping left at each junction. Just past Frozen Lake, take Wonderland trail west at the five way junction.  Follow the Wonderland trail for approximately 3/4 mile until another junction.  At this junction, keep right onto the Northern Loop trail where you will descend quickly several miles to Berkeley Park.  Be sure to be on the lookout for the many marmots and other wildlife in the area.  After Berkeley Park, the trail ascends approximately 300 ft. on the way to Grand Park.

There is so much to see and do on this trail, the best way to enjoy it is to backpack in for an overnight stay.  Camp sites are available at Berkeley Park and Lake Eleanor.  Make sure you get a camping permit at the visitor center.