The Vitals
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Elevation
- Peak 9,795', Lake 8,600'
Rock - Granite/Igneous Scree
Directions
- Go from Kirkwood in winter or Caples Lake in summer. Parking at
either side of the lake works, then take the trail to the back of the
lake. The trail from the west parking area sees a bit more traffic. You
can also go from Carson Pass or Woods Lake
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Easy
access in winter
Great terrain
Beautiful remote lake in sumer |
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Lots of winter traffic
Bugs in summer
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Locals Tips
Access the area as part of a Carson Pass to Kirkwood tour
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Recommended Gear
Hiking Shoes
Bugproof
Hats
Hydration Pack
Avalanche Gear (winter)
Climbing Skins
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Melissa Coray Peak and Emigrant Lake
lie within the Mokelumne Wilderness Area (the peak is along the
boundary). The beautiful area sees much more winter visitors than
summer since it is easily accessed from Kirkwood's backside but quite a
hike in the summer from Caples Lake. The highest peak on the ridge is
actually Peak 9795 and Melissa Coray is only a sub peak (with the radio
tower) but got the name. The Emigrant Lake is
a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by wildflowers in mid to late
summer. The trail there is along a lake and creek the entire way so
you'll have to go
through miles of
mosquitoes to get there on many day. Consider a mosquito
net hat in addition to bug spray. Winter time the entire area
sees a large amount of traffic and includes a number of named runs off
peak 9795 (California Chute, Stovepipe, Pipeline and more) and the West
Shore area allows for a quick lap without the need for skins or booting
(snowboarders have a hike to get back in). The West Shore features
Broadway, Diagonal, Main, West Shore, and the Temple of Doom on the way
back in.
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