When Is the Best Time
Sword Lake is a popular destination for hikers as well as backpackers because it's an easy trip and only a 2.5 miles hike from the County Line Trailhead.
Season/Months
The best time to visit if you plan to go swimming is summer (late June/July/August) and early fall (September). However, expect a crowded area in summer, even more on weekends. Weather details: Monthly Weather - Sonora (nearby)
Avoiding Tourist Crowds
A great time with pleasant weather and less people is September after Labor Day, when the tourist season has died down a little. But still, try to avoid weekends if possible. You can also continue 0.3 miles farther to Lost Lake if Sword Lake is too crowded.
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Where and Tips
The trailhead is right off the Sonora Pass Highway. Plenty of wildlife to see. Great views of Sonora Pass and the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness.
- Roundtrip Distance: 7.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1500 feet
- Permits: A forest service permit is required for overnight camping but for day use a permit is not required.
- Closest Hotel: Strawberry Inn