The scenic approach to the Four Lakes Loop trades Long Canyon's traffic for better views, real solitude, and two passes that earn the lakes on the other side.
The scenic way into the Four Lakes Loop. The Stoney Ridge approach trades Long Canyon's popularity for better views and real solitude. You climb over Stonewall Pass and Little Stonewall Pass, drop through Van Matre Meadows, and camp at Echo Lake before reaching the four lakes. Longer and steeper than the standard Long Canyon route, but you'll likely have the trail to yourself. Same lakes, completely different trip.
Start: Stoney Ridge Trailhead
End: Stoney Ridge Trailhead
Water: Streams, Echo Lake
Steep steady climb over Stonewall Pass and Little Stonewall Pass with big views. Drop through Van Matre Meadows to Echo Lake. Expect solitude on the approach.
Water: Deer Lake, Summit Lake, Diamond Lake, Luella Lake, Deer Creek
Hike 3 miles through Upper and Lower Siligo Meadows to Summit Lake. Drop packs and set up camp, then day hike the Four Lakes Loop (~5 miles, est. +1,600 ft gain). All four lakes in one push with a light pack.
Water: Summit Lake, Echo Lake, streams
Retrace through Siligo Meadows and past Echo Lake, then back over the passes to the trailhead. Mostly downhill. Views you missed on the way in hit different in the other direction.
Siligo Peak scramble (0.6mi RT, +/-400ft, great views). Seven Up Peak (4.3mi RT, +/-2,100ft). Extended exploration of Van Matre Meadows.
Stoney Ridge TH is off Highway 3 near Trinity Lake. Free permits, no quota — pick up at Weaverville Ranger Station or self-serve kiosk. Can combine with Long Canyon for a point-to-point with car shuttle. Echo Lake camp is the key to making this a 3-day trip.
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