The 14-mile stretch of California State Route 158 the eastern Sierra Nevada known as the June Lake Loop has been called “the Switzerland of America,” and it lives up to the hype. Located north of Mammoth Lakes, California, the loop begins and ends on U.S. Highway 395, tucking into the June Lake basin underneath granite spires that reach more than 11,000 feet. The area consists of four lakes -- June, Gull, Silver and Grant -- each of which offers fishing, kayaking and boating opportunities but only a few places to swim. Between the lakes of June and Gull is the small village of June Lake, which caters almost exclusively to visitors.
Swimming Restrictions
- Of the area's four lakes, June and Gull are the highest at 7,600 feet, and all of them are cold. Access to the waterfront at all of the lakes is made difficult by rocks, dense foliage and hazardous cliffs. Moreover, these lakes are popular for fishing, particularly Silver Lake, so swimming there is discouraged because it scares away fish, and the hooks and lines can be dangerous for swimmers. Even in more populated areas, such as around the Big Rock Resort Marina in the village of June Lake, swimming is not allowed for fear of swimmers being hit by boats.
June Lake Swimming Beach
- The only official place to swim in the June Lake Loop is the June Lake Swimming Beach, at the north end of the lake in the day-use area of the Oh! Ridge Campground. The campground and swim beach are appropriately named given its panoramic views of the lake and valley. There are more than 140 non-electric campsites here, all of which are a short walk down to the beach. This beach is designated solely for swimmers -- no fishing or boats here. It is easy to wade into the water, and the sandy beach is wide for sunbathing. There is little shade, so both the beach and the campsites are exposed; on sunny days, this makes a jump in the frigid Alpine waters all the more refreshing.
Double Eagle Resort and Spa
- Swimming is an option for guests at the Double Eagle Resort and Spa. It is one of the newer resorts on the June Lake Loop, located between Gull Lake and Silver Lake. The full-service resort features a 60-foot indoor pool, with dedicated swimming times for children. From inside the pool area, the large glass windows frame the mountains outside, providing incredible views any time of year.
Boulder Lodge
- In the village of June Lake, Boulder Lodge offers an indoor pool and whirlpool for guests. The lodge -- the only hotel within the village boundaries to offer year-round swimming -- sits slightly above June Lake and offers stunning views of the lake and its surroundings. Simple yet comfortable in its appointment, Boulder Lodge is conveniently located near all of the businesses and restaurants in June Lake.
