Carson Pass Spring, CA

## Overview Tucked away in the high Sierra at approximately 8,900 feet elevation, this unnamed subalpine spring sits in one of the most breathtaking settings of any natural water source in California. Located roughly 1.8 miles on foot from the Carson Pass trailhead along Highway 88 in Alpine County, the spring rewards hikers with water that visitors have described as exceptionally refreshing — with a unique, hard-to-define flavor that many say is among the best they've ever tasted. The high-altitude source, fed by snowmelt filtering through volcanic rock, likely contributes to the water's distinctive mineral character. The spring itself is a small upwelling hole from which water flows to the surface, feeding a nearby stream that crosses the trail. It is surrounded by wildflowers in a sweeping subalpine meadow just west of Elephant's Back, a prominent volcanic ridge. Nearby Lake Winnemucca and Round Top Lake — both popular destinations along the same trail system — add to the area's appeal. The Carson Pass region is renowned for hosting one of the most spectacular wildflower displays on earth, typically peaking between mid-July and mid-August. This is not a drive-up water collection point — there is no road access to the spring, and hauling large containers is impractical. Instead, it's a destination for hikers who want to combine a scenic subalpine trek with the experience of tasting high-elevation spring water in a truly stunning natural setting. ## Directions 1. **Drive to Carson Pass trailhead** along Highway 88 near Kirkwood, CA. There is a parking area at the pass (GPS: approximately 38.6761, -119.9900). A log cabin information center is located a short walk from the trailhead. 2. **Begin hiking south on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).** Follow the well-marked trail for about one mile. 3. **At the fork for Frog Lake, do not veer left** to stay on the PCT. Instead, follow the signpost directing you toward **Lake Winnemucca**. 4. **Continue through open woodland** for roughly another mile. You will emerge into a large, open meadow to the west of **Elephant's Back**. This meadow is the epicenter of the famous wildflower bloom (mid-July to mid-August). 5. **At the far end of the meadow, you will cross a small stream.** The trail turns right after the crossing. This stream is fed directly by the spring. 6. **The spring is approximately 50 feet from the stream crossing.** Look for a small hole in the ground from which water visibly flows upward. You can refill water bottles directly at the source. *Total distance: approximately 1.8 miles one way. The return trip is nearly all downhill.* ## What to Expect The hike to the spring is moderate and well-suited for most fitness levels, following established and signed trails through classic Sierra Nevada subalpine terrain. Expect open conifer woodland giving way to expansive wildflower meadows as you gain elevation. The trail is generally well-maintained and easy to follow. The spring itself is modest in appearance — a small hole in the ground where water bubbles up — but the water has been reported by visitors to be remarkably clean-tasting and satisfying, with a subtle mineral quality attributed to the high-altitude volcanic geology of the Carson Pass area. Visitors often fill their bottles here before continuing on to Lake Winnemucca or Round Top Lake, as it can save carrying extra water on the longer portions of the hike. The surrounding meadow, especially between mid-July and mid-August, explodes with wildflowers — lupine, paintbrush, mule's ears, and dozens of other species carpet the landscape against a backdrop of volcanic peaks. Even outside peak bloom, the views of Elephant's Back and the surrounding Sierra crest are spectacular. **Seasonal notes:** The trail and spring are typically accessible from late June through October, depending on snowpack. Early-season visitors may encounter snow patches on the trail. The wildflower bloom is weather-dependent but generally peaks in late July. **Access tips:** The Carson Pass trailhead parking area can fill up quickly on summer weekends, especially during wildflower season. Arrive early to secure a spot. A valid parking pass or day-use fee may be required (check with the Eldorado National Forest or Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest for current requirements, as the pass sits near the boundary of both).