A Beaten Path Worth Taking – Lake Margaret Trail, Kirkwood, El Dorado County

At 1850 Wine Cellars, when we say, “Take a hike!” it is not meant as a bad thing. California is a state of adventure, exploration, and connection. Get out there with family and friends, explore and discover.

Lake Margaret Trail is a 4.6 mile out and back trail located near Kirkwood, California that features a river and a gorgeous lake defined from huge slabs of granite. The trail offers plenty of activity options and is best used from June until October. Dogs and horses are also able to use this trail. You will love how much the trail varies from enchanted garden scenes, to rocky areas, to creeks, and then into boulders.

Hiking to Lake Margaret is a moderate walk that includes traversing granite slabs, forest, meadows, and crossing several streams. Keep in mind the streams may be high in springtime, use caution. The wildflowers in mid-summer and changing color of aspens in autumn are beautiful. For the quietest action, get out on the trail early because this trail is well known and receives a good amount of traffic.

Pro-tip for those adventurous types that are out there: Instead of veering right at the end of the trail to the center to the lake, make a left in between the two peaks that border the west side of the lake. It is a climb, but if you can scale either on the side opposite of the lake you will be rewarded with amazing panoramic valley views.

Permits not required for overnight use, though a Campfire permit is required for fires (wood, gas, or charcoal burning).

Check it out, take pictures and tag us @1850wine with hashtag #1850BeatenPaths

4.6 miles, 534 ft elevation gain

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Lake Margaret Trail is also one of our 6 Must Explore Trails in El Dorado County!

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