Description of Eagle Lake:
The Eagle Lake trailhead out of Emerald Bay is probably the most used (and abused) section of the desolation wilderness. In the summer hundreds of visitors can visit this lake every day. The short length and relative ease of the trail makes this a great option for a first time "wilderness" hike. There are rainbow trout in the lake, but the hike is so easy that the lake gets bombarded by fishermen, which can make fishing here highly unproductive for the unskilled. Needless to say, the hike has redeeming qualities: a view of Emerald Bay and sweet glacial polish on the granite. One can also witness the spectacular Eagle Falls, just east of HWY 89 from the parking lot. |