Hike to Doris Lake to Cliff Jump Off a 65+ Ft. Rock into Hot Springs

Lakeshore, California

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Details

Distance

1.5 miles

Elevation Gain

300 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Alaina Donovan

This is an easy + rewarding hike to a beautiful, spring fed lake. There is a 65+ foot cliff jump that is adrenaline inducing and not for the faint of heart! The water is around 70 degrees and the view is absolutely breathtaking. One of my favorite little places in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Doris Lake is one of the several lakes tucked into the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. In my opinion, it is the BEST spot in the area. Who doesn't love a private, little hot springs swimming hole surrounded by stunning Sierra Nevada scenery? For those who aren't into the cliff jumping idea, there are warm slabs of granite to catch some rays on and trees conveniently positioned for hammock chilling. This quiet, serene lake is a swimmers haven. This is the ideal place to spend a summer afternoon! It is impossible to not feel alive and happy at Doris Lake.

How to Get There: The drive up the mountain on Kaiser Pass Rd from Huntington Lake is a little dicey. Be prepared for a winding, one lane road on the side of the mountain. Kaiser Pass is 9,100 ft. in elevation and one of North America’s highest passes. Views of Yosemite, High Sierras and the Range of Light can be seen on this drive. Not a route recommended for RVs. That being said, it is 100% worth it once you arrive.

Trail Directions: Once you're at Mono Hot Springs Campground, the Doris Lake trailhead is easy to find. The trailhead begins to the right of the spa bathhouse and is a little over 2 miles. There will be a sign for Tule Lakes but disregard it and keep walking on the same path for a half mile to find Doris Lake. It should only take you around 45 minutes to spot the lake.

Extras: At Mono Hot Springs Campground there is a shop, hot spring spa, campsites, restrooms, cabins and even a restaurant in high season.

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Features

Chillin

Camping

Photography

Swimming

Backpacking

Hiking

Adult Beverages

Bathrooms

Beach

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Food Nearby

Forest

Groups

Hot Springs

Lake

Picnic Area

Romantic

Scenic

Wildflowers

Wildlife

Cliff Jumping

Swimming Hole

Hike to Doris Lake to Cliff Jump Off a 65+ Ft. Rock into Hot Springs Reviews

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