Are dogs allowed on Lake Ella?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Lake Ella but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Lake Ella?

No, Lake Ella does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Lake Ella?

Lake Ella is rated moderate. It is 6.0 miles long with 1,102 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See California trail conditions

ModerateOut and Back

California

Lake Ella

Kings Beach, California

6.0 mi

Distance

1,102 ft

Elev. Gain

2h 24m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The trail begins with a walk on a road across the dam. The dirt trail goes along the side of the lake before it goes up a hill. The suggestion is to follow Matt's Trail up a moderate steep hill and then walk to the lake. This year it is almost full, compared to last year when it was almost empty. Relax and hear the birds while at the picnic table. Continue down Matt's Trail and you'll see a volcanic rock viewpoint on the way to the next destination. The trail continues to follow the hill, before meeting up again with Matt's trail. Go left and go over the hill and across the dam.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:1,777 ft

Max:1,943 ft

336 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context