Loon Lake Chalet

About

Loon Lake Chalet sits at 6,378 feet elevation on the western edge of Loon Lake in a granite bowl surrounded by sub-alpine red fir and lodgepole pine forest. The three-story structure offers spectacular views of the Crystal Range of the Sierra Nevada and was originally constructed by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District in 1989 as a day-use winter warming facility before being converted to overnight use. The chalet features a kitchen with double sink, range top stove, microwave, under-counter refrigerator, electric heat, gas fireplace, and hot and cold running water from a tested well. The second floor warming room and third floor loft provide sleeping accommodations with 12 twin sleeping pads and a futon, accommodating up to 20 guests. Vault toilets are located outside the building, with separate facilities for renters and the public. Summer activities include hiking, backpacking into Desolation Wilderness, fishing for rainbow and brown trout, mountain biking, horseback riding, and driving the 22-mile Rubicon 4WD Trail. In winter, the chalet serves as the focal point for the Loon Lake Winter Recreation Area with miles of non-groomed backcountry skiing trails. Winter snow depths average 3-8 feet, and tire chains are required.

Directions

Take Highway 50 east of Placerville for 21 miles to the Ice House Road turnoff. Turn left and go 25 miles north to a fork in the road. Take the right fork 6 miles. Pass the Loon Lake Campground turn-off, then continue 3/4 mile to the chalet.