Attractions and Places To See in Alpine County - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Alpine County include a diverse range of natural features and historical sites within the Sierra Nevada. This less-populated region offers pristine wilderness, alpine lakes, and significant historical landmarks. The county encompasses portions of multiple national forests, providing extensive opportunities for outdoor activities. It is characterized by high mountain passes and a rich history tied to early settlers and mining.
Best attractions and places to see in Alpine County
- The most popular attractions is PCT Trailhead, Carson Pass, a trail that crosses Highway 88 at its highest point. This location features a seasonal information center and pit toilets, and provides access to the Pacific Crest Trail.
- Another must-see spot is Round Top Summit, a summit offering views across surrounding peaks to Lake Tahoe and Caples Lake. The challenging ascent to the summit may require specialized gear depending on snow conditions.
- Visitors also love Sonora Pass Trailhead at PCT, a trail and historical site. This pass is a significant point on the Pacific Crest Trail, marking a transition into or out of the Sierra Nevada for hikers.
- Alpine County is known for its scenic mountain passes, historic sites, and extensive hiking trails. The region offers a variety of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in local history.
- The attractions in Alpine County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 6 upvotes and 12 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
PCT Trailhead, Carson Pass
Highlight β’ Trail
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Round Top Summit
Highlight β’ Summit
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Sonora Pass Trailhead at PCT
Highlight β’ Trail
Your best resupply option is to hitch around ten miles into Kennedy Meadows North, which most thruhikers do. The store there is small, but they have all the hiker necessities. They also have a good hiker box, hiker showers, hiker laundry, and a decent restaurant.
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Carson River Hot Springs β¨
Highlight β’ Natural Monument
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Grover Hot Springs State Park
Highlight β’ Natural Monument
Pool access Adults $10. Open 10am-6pm year-round, longer on holidays. Pools closed on Wednesdays in the off-season. Call for current operating hours: (530) 694-2248. Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas day. parks.ca.gov/?page_id=508
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grover_Hot_Springs_State_Park
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Lower Highland Lake π»
Highlight β’ Lake
Nearby Upper Highland Lake has 2 campgrounds and is in winter a good starting point for a climb up Hiram Peak (9796 ft / 2986 m), about one mile, and a thousand feet above Highland Lakes on the ridge separating the deep canyons of Highland and Arnot Creeks. Its summit offers an excellent view of these drainages, along with the impressive pyramid shaped summits of Airola Peak and Dardanelles Cone. While most of the wilderness area sees very few visitors, Hiramβs close proximity to Highland Lakes brings a few visitors during summer, and snowmobiles in winter. Class 2 climb June to November.
summitpost.org/hiram-peak/150618
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Bear Valley junction to Poison Canyon Ridge β°οΈ
Highlight β’ Trail
In summer the trail is easy to follow. If still snow-covered it becomes an unmarked adventure, best with crampons/snowshoes or ski on skins to climb straight north from the parking and east along the ridge above Poison canyon toward Mt Reba road. Great views of Mokolumne Wilderness to the north and Carson-Iceberg Wilderness to the south.
You can then hike (or ski) down into Poison Canyon which loops back toward the SNOpark for a great reward of a half-day backcountry outing, or continue along the ridge above Hwy 4 and loop back down a few miles further east for a longer tour. With snow you can also drop into some sweet powder bowls to the north and climb back out the way you came.
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Frog Lake, Woods Creek headwaters
Highlight β’ Lake
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Pacific Crest Trail at Ebbetts Pass
Highlight (Segment) β’ Trail
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Ebbets Pass
Highlight β’ Mountain Pass
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Popular around Alpine County
Tips from the Community
Ebbetts Pass is one of the first roads you will cross after you left the Sierras at Sonora Pass. If you are lucky, there might be some trail angels around.
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The fantastic 2,650-mile long trail that is the Pacific Crest Trail crosses Highway 4 just east of Ebbetts Pass. Here you are well into alpine country. This trail enters the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness and climbs about four miles to Noble Lake and onwards. The views of Noble Canyon and Highland Peak are spectacular.
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At 8,700 feet, Ebbetts Pass is a spectacular high mountain pass that is the fulcrum point between two state parks namely Calaveras Big Trees and Grover Hot Springs. It is also a cross over point for the Pacific Crest Trail. It sits just below imposing Ebbetts Peak at 9,160 feet which is just a short easy hike away.
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A short spur trail will get you to the shore of Frog Lake to take a scenic break or to get some water.
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Ebbetts Pass is one of the first roads you will cross after you left the Sierras at Sonora Pass. If you are lucky, there might be some trail angels around. The pass is also a historic place: Jedediah Smith, the legendary pioneer crossed the Sierra Nevada over Ebbetts Pass.
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At Carson Pass you will find an information center with a small shop and some benches. Pit toilets are also available. If you are lucky, there might be some trail magic.
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The PCT here passes the tiny Frog Lake, that can still be under snow early in the season.
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Great place to stop after a long ride and treat tired legs in the hot water, particularly if staying at the adjacent campground
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural landmarks and scenic viewpoints can I explore in Alpine County?
Alpine County is rich in natural beauty. You can visit Round Top Summit for stellar views across surrounding peaks to Lake Tahoe and Caples Lake. Other notable natural features include Lower Highland Lake π» and the serene Frog Lake, Woods Creek headwaters. The region also features several spectacular high mountain passes like Ebbetts Pass, Carson Pass, Sonora Pass, and Monitor Pass, all offering unique scenic vistas.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions in Alpine County?
Yes, Alpine County has a rich history. You can explore the Sonora Pass Trailhead at PCT, which is also a significant historical site dating back to 1865. The county seat, Markleeville, features historic buildings from the 1860s, including the Old Log Jail and the county courthouse. The Alpine County Historical Complex, overlooking Markleeville, offers insights into the area's mining history, Native American heritage, and pioneer life. You can find more information about the complex at alpinecountyca.gov.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do in Alpine County?
Alpine County offers extensive opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking, running, and cycling. For hiking, consider routes like Winnemucca and Round Top Lakes, Showers Lake via the PCT, or Lost Lakes via PCT Carson Pass. Find more hiking options at Hiking in Alpine County. Cyclists can explore challenging routes like the Ebbetts Pass loop from Markleeville or the Monitor Pass loop. Discover more cycling tours at Cycling in Alpine County. Running enthusiasts can find trails such as the Armstrong Pass and Tahoe Rim Trail Loop or the Winnemucca and Round Top Lakes Loop at Running Trails in Alpine County.
Are there any hot springs in Alpine County?
Yes, Alpine County is home to natural hot springs. You can visit Grover Hot Springs State Park, which features a developed complex with both a hot mineral pool and a swimming pool. Another option is the more challenging Carson River Hot Springs β¨.
What is the best time of year to visit Alpine County for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Alpine County for most outdoor activities, especially hiking and scenic drives, is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During this period, high mountain passes like Ebbetts Pass are generally open, and trails are free of snow. Winter offers opportunities for snowmobiling in Hope Valley and backcountry skiing, but many roads close due to heavy snow.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in Alpine County?
Yes, Grover Hot Springs State Park is considered family-friendly, offering swimming pools, picnic areas, and easy hiking trails. The park provides a relaxing environment for all ages amidst open pine forest and meadows.
Where can I access the Pacific Crest Trail in Alpine County?
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) crosses through Alpine County at several points. You can access it at PCT Trailhead, Carson Pass, which has a seasonal information center and pit toilets. Another significant access point is Sonora Pass Trailhead at PCT. The PCT also crosses Highway 4 just east of Ebbetts Pass, known as Pacific Crest Trail at Ebbetts Pass, offering spectacular views into Noble Canyon.
What are the notable mountain passes in Alpine County?
Alpine County is known for its spectacular high mountain passes. These include Ebbetts Pass (Highway 4), Carson Pass (Highway 88), Sonora Pass, and Monitor Pass. Each pass offers unique scenic experiences and access to various outdoor activities. Ebbets Pass, for example, is a historic pass and a crucial crossing point for the Pacific Crest Trail.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on trails in Alpine County?
Alpine County's trails are characterized by diverse terrain and significant elevation changes, typical of the Sierra Nevada. You'll find everything from moderate paths around lakes to challenging scrambles up summits like Round Top Summit, which may require specialized gear depending on snow conditions. Trails often lead through open pine forests, sagebrush, meadows, and rugged alpine landscapes.
Are there any challenging trails for experienced hikers?
Yes, Alpine County offers several challenging trails. The final part of the scramble up to Round Top Summit is particularly challenging, with rocky peaks and ravines. Another challenging option is the trail from Bear Valley junction to Poison Canyon Ridge β°οΈ, which offers forest views and a demanding ascent.
What do visitors enjoy most about Alpine County?
Visitors to Alpine County appreciate its pristine wilderness, alpine lakes, and significant historical sites. The less-populated nature of the region provides a tranquil and authentic mountain experience with fewer crowds. Many enjoy the extensive opportunities for outdoor activities, the spectacular views from mountain passes, and the rich history tied to early settlers and mining.
Most popular routes in Alpine County
Most popular attractions in Alpine County
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