Lola Montez Lk - Hole in the ground Trail north of Castle Peak at Donner Summit on I-80 near Soda Springs.

                                                                                                      Sand Ridge L. - Castle Pass

Castle Peak - I-80

Profile

Lola Montez was a popular dancer during California's Gold Rush.
There are several campsites around the Lower Lola Montez lake.
Fishing for rainbow in Lower Lola Montez Lake is relatively good (stocked in 2000), but it is known for 10"-15" Brookies that can be caught best in the fall.
The trail connects to the Hole in the Ground trail (a popular mountain bike trail) to the north.

Trailhead: From I-80 west of Truckee, take the Soda Springs exit. Make two quick rights, passing the fire station, to the trailhead and parking area (0.3 mi).

Trail Description from GORP - Lower Lola Montez Lake Trail
Since much of the trail is over private property, hikers are requested to stay on the trail and observe the property rights of the landowner. From the trailhead follow the trail north for 1/4 mile to a road. The road will take you to the Lower Castle Creek crossing (Lower Castle Creek causes some wet feet in early season). The trail veers to the right 1/4 mile after the creek crossing, and then climbs for another 1/4 mile, where it ties in with the road again. For the next mile, under a canopy of beautiful forest, the road gently ascends. At the end of the road, which is also the beginning of the Motor Vehicle Restricted Area, the trail leads to an open, flat meadow. From there it is 1/4 mile to Lower Lola Montez Lake. Other Maps: Soda Springs Area | I-80 north to Hwy 49 | Donner Summit Trails | Aerial View | Flora Lake


Links:
Paradise Lake at Sierra Club Motherlode Chapter
Tahoe NF Winter Recreation
Emergency Contacts

last updated 23 Jan 2007