Top Lakes in California

You should check out the dog-friendly trails if you have a furry friend. I found a great one near Emerald Bay, but be prepared for some steep climbs. Totally worth it.

I recommend grabbing a day pass for the local beaches; it totally saves money compared to individual entry fees. Plus some spots have awesome picnic areas where you can relax

My advice is to check local grocery stores for snacks instead of the pricey eateries. I stumbled upon a lovely deli that had fresh sandwiches and drinks at half the price!

My advice is to check out the local events calendar before your visit. I stumbled upon a small art fair that was going on – it added a fun twist to my stroll around the lake.

Bring plenty of water—it’s super easy to underestimate how thirsty you’ll get on the trail. I think packing snacks is a good move too; they really help keep your energy up!

If you can, avoid weekends. My advice is to go on a Tuesday or Wednesday. It was pretty packed when I went on a Saturday, and I wish I had better pictures without people in 'em!

I suggest bringing a picnic! There are some great spots near the water, and the views are stunning. Plus, it's way cheaper than eating out nearby

Check the local events calendar before you go; we stumbled upon a cool outdoor concert by the lake which was free! It made our visit way more memorable.