TORCH TRAIL REVIEW #023 | LOST LAKES (SIERRA NEVADA, CA)
Looking for a High Sierra trail where the scenery steals the show? The Lost Lakes 4WD Trail (Forestdale Road) climbs to about 8,600 feet on the crest of the Sierra Nevada, along the border of the Humboldt-Toiyabe and Eldorado National Forests. It’s a beginner-to-intermediate route with steep shelf roads, two alpine lakes, and some of the most breathtaking views in the TORCH Trail Review series.
Trail Overview
How difficult is the Lost Lakes trail? Lost Lakes is a beginner-to-intermediate trail that a stock 4x4 can handle, with a few intermediate sections along the way. The terrain is rough but not technical. The bigger test is the steep grade and the drop-offs, so drivers who aren’t comfortable with heights should think twice.
What Is the Lost Lakes Trail’s Official Name?
Is the Lost Lakes trail the same as Forestdale Road? Yes. Many off-roaders call it the Lost Lakes 4WD Trail, some maps label it Forestdale Road, and its official designation is Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Route 13. If you’re plotting it in a navigation app, try all three names.
The Terrain
Rough, Rocky Track: Not technically difficult, but expect rough ground the whole way.
Steep Shelf Roads: Carved hillside sections with steep grades and exposed drop-offs.
Eastern Sierra Landscape: Open, rugged high country with sweeping mountain views from the crest.
Two Lakes: West Lake is easy to reach and has several campsites near the water. East Lake is less accessible for beginners or those running stock rigs, but is worth the drive if you can reach it.
Reaching East Lake
Can you drive to East Lake? Yes, but only with a high-clearance rig and some experience behind the wheel. Reaching East Lake (the upper lake) means getting through a rocky drop section, where a stock 4x4 risks dragging its bumper. It’s not a spot for beginners. Treat it as a decision point: West Lake is a great place to stop, and East Lake is the reward for a rig that’s built for it.
Lexus GX470 Off-Road Review
Chad from @SoccerMomOffroad brought his Lexus GX470 back for the third trail in his Sierra series, following Long Canyon and Strawberry Pass. Running a 2.5-inch suspension lift and 33-inch tires, the GX had the clearance to make it up to East Lake, where the crew set up camp. Chad says Lost Lakes may be his favorite of the three, with some of the best scenery he’s seen on any trail.
Tips From the Scout
Know Your Comfort With Heights: The steep grades and drop-offs aren’t technical, but they can make newer drivers nervous.
Pick Your Destination Before You Go: West Lake works for most 4x4s. Save East Lake for high-clearance rigs and experienced drivers.
Plan Your Route Out: Run it as an out-and-back, or continue through to Blue Lakes Road and work your way down to Highway 88.
Tread Lightly: Pack out your trash, leave the area undisturbed, and practice fire safety. This is a pristine spot worth protecting.
Do You Need a Lift Kit for Lost Lakes?
Can a stock 4x4 drive the Lost Lakes trail? Yes. The main trail and West Lake are within reach of a stock 4x4. Added clearance is only necessary if your destination is the upper East Lake.
Stock 4x4 for the Main Trail: Newer off-roaders may feel nervous on the steep sections, but it’s doable.
High Clearance for East Lake: The rocky drop to the upper lake puts stock rigs at risk.
Comfort With Exposure: The steep grade and drop-offs are the trail’s main mental challenge.
Summary Stats
Lost Lakes sits at about 8,600 feet on the Sierra Nevada crest, along the Humboldt-Toiyabe and Eldorado National Forest border in California.
Location: Humboldt-Toiyabe & Eldorado National Forest border, Sierra Nevada, CA
Also Known As: Forestdale Road / Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Route 13
Elevation: About 8,600 ft at the crest
Distance: 5-6 miles (about 60-90 minutes drive time)
Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate
Terrain: Rough rocky track, steep shelf roads, alpine lakes
Route Options: Out-and-back, or through to Blue Lakes Road and down to Highway 88
Recommended Setup: Stock 4x4 for the main trail and West Lake. High-clearance, modified 4x4 for East Lake
The Verdict
Lost Lakes proves a trail doesn’t have to be hard to be unforgettable. It’s approachable enough for a stock 4x4, the steep grades and the full route up to East Lake keep it interesting, and the scenery ranks among the best in our Trail Review series.
A huge thank you to Chad from @SoccerMomOffroad for wrapping up his 3-part Sierra series with this one! Check out his YouTube Channel for more off-road adventures in his Lexus GX470.
Some trails test your rig. This one rewards it with a view. Which lake are you camping at?
Whatever you’re driving, a properly fitted lift kit closes the gap between stock clearance and what a trail like Lost Lakes demands.
👉 Shop TORCH Off Road Suspension Lift Kits
Where are you wheeling next? Drop your favorite local trail in the comments and tag us @torchoffroad - we’re always scouting the next episode! -TORCH
