Eldorado National Forest

Recreational Activities: Fishing

Sylvia Lake

Species Present: Brook trout are no longer stocked by California Department of Fish and Game.

Seasons: Although fishing is allowed year-round, the lake is accessible in the winter by ski or snowshoe only. Be sure to check the fishing regulations on the Department of Fish and Game web site. These still apply inside the Wilderness.

Access: Hiking only. Sylvia Lake is in Desolation Wilderness. No motorized, mechanized, or wheeled equipment are allowed in the Wilderness; such as bicycles, motorcycles, snowmobiles, or motorboats.

This lake is reached by parking at the Lyons Creek parking area near Wrights Lake and hiking the Lyons Creek Trail. This is considered a moderate hike.

Directions to Wrights Lake: From Kyburz on Highway 50 go 5 miles east to Wrights Lake Road. Turn left (north), and go 8 miles to the campgound.

Camping : There are many camping spots. Sensitive marshy meadow areas exist around the lake where soil compaction and vegetation loss is affecting the pristine environment. To preserve the wilderness condition, either camp in obviously already used sites, or camp 100 feet from the lakeside. Please limit group sizes in order to preserve the solitude and wilderness experiences for all (maximum size is 12 people). Open campfires are not allowed.

Become familiar with and practice these Leave No Trace skills:

1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly - "Pack it in and pack it out"
4. Leave what you find
5. Respect wildlife
6. Be considerate of other visitors.

Desolation Wilderness: Permits are required for day and overnight use. A quota on overnight permits is in effect from Memorial Weekend through September 30. Although not required, reservations for permits are recommended. Please contact the Pacific Ranger District for more information.

The Desolation Wilderness is managed according to the Wilderness Act of 1964 to "ensure an enduring resource of Wilderness for present and future generations." The wilderness character of the Desolation and its unique values of solitude, physical, and mental challenge, scientific study, inspiration and primitive recreation will be protected, and where necessary, restored.

Map: Forest and Desolation Wilderness maps area available at forest Ranger Stations.

Comments: Please do not leave fish entrails in the water or bury them, as they do not decompose in high elevations. It is preferable to pack them out or scatter them in a discrete location where animals can consume them. Please bury human and dog waste and toilet paper 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.

More Information and Wilderness Permits :

Pacific Ranger District
7887 Highway 50
Pollock Pines, CA 95726
(530) 647-5415

USDA Forest Service - Eldorado National Forest
Last Modified: Tuesday, 12 July 2005 at 19:55:07 EDT