Kyburz Spring, Kyburz, CA 95720

## Overview Kyburz Spring is a natural rock spring located in the Desolation Wilderness area of El Dorado County, California, near the popular Wright's Lake Recreation Area. The spring flows directly from a granite rock formation along the trail to Smith Lake, on the north side of the path. Situated at an elevation of roughly 7,000–8,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada, this cold mountain spring draws from snowmelt-fed aquifers filtering through ancient granitic bedrock — a geological signature that contributes to exceptionally clean-tasting, mineral-light water. Visitors have described the water from Kyburz Spring as some of the best-tasting natural spring water they've ever tried. The surrounding landscape is classic High Sierra: towering conifers, exposed granite, and pristine alpine lakes. The spring sits within the Eldorado National Forest, making it a rewarding stop for hikers exploring the Wright's Lake trail system. ## Directions 1. From the town of Kyburz on US Highway 50, head south and follow signs toward **Wright's Lake Road**. 2. Drive Wright's Lake Road to its end at **Wright's Lake Campground** (the road is narrow and winding; trailers and large RVs may have difficulty). 3. From the campground, take the **trail toward Smith Lake** (also signed for Grouse Lake and the Desolation Wilderness). 4. As you ascend the trail toward Smith Lake, watch for the spring on the **left (north) side of the trail**. The water emerges directly from a rock formation. 5. The spring is located before you reach Smith Lake, so keep an eye out during the uphill portion of the hike. **GPS Coordinates:** 38.857093, -120.192862 *Note: Wright's Lake Road is typically open from late June through October, depending on snowpack. A Desolation Wilderness permit may be required for day hikes and overnight trips — check with the Eldorado National Forest ranger station for current conditions and permit requirements.* ## What to Expect The hike from Wright's Lake Campground to the spring is a moderate uphill trek through beautiful Sierra Nevada forest. The trail is well-maintained and popular during summer months, passing through granite-studded terrain with views of surrounding peaks and alpine meadows. The spring itself flows from an exposed rock face on the north side of the trail. Water flow is typically strongest in early to mid-summer when snowmelt is at its peak, and may diminish by late season. The water has been reported to taste exceptionally clean and cold — a refreshing reward on a warm hiking day. Beyond the spring, the trail continues to Smith Lake and Grouse Lake, both stunning alpine destinations well worth the extra effort. Wright's Lake Campground offers established campsites, vault toilets, and boat access to Wright's Lake itself, making it a great base camp for exploring the area. Keep in mind that this is a high-elevation backcountry location. Weather can change quickly, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Cell service is unreliable to nonexistent in this area, so plan accordingly.