A Couple of Hidden Gems
There is so much to do and see here in the Central Sierra Nevada’s, and especially in Shaver Lake. Of course the lake itself is amazing and there is nothing like coming home from a day of work and enjoying a relaxing evening on the boat during the summer, but more about that another time.
Two little known spots in Shaver are Dinkey Creek and McKinley Grove but both are absolute gems well worth the visit. Just a few miles from the house and just before you get into town, take a right on Dinkey Creek Road. You will pass Camp Chawanakee on the left then drive past some beautiful mountain meadows. A little further down on the left you will see the trail-head for Bald Mountain. You are almost to the first Gem, Dinkey Creek. The road ends just past the bridge for the McKinley Grove Road.
Take it to the end then get out and explore - you will be glad you did. There are campgrounds, restrooms, a seasonal general store and incredible scenery. Walk the creek and spend a little time on the historic wooden bowstring arch bridge. It was built in 1938 and is the only one of its kind in existence in California! This would be the perfect spot to have lunch before heading up to Gem #2 a short six miles up McKinley Grove Road.
Amazingly, on most days you will have this all to yourselves...
McKinley Grove Road (Road 11S40) is a US Forest Service road, but is paved and easily traveled. You will notice that it winds its way through the forest past Laurel Creek and Bear Falls as the forest becomes thicker. As you near the six mile mark slow down or you will miss this Gem nestled in around a sharp right turn. Like Dinkey Creek, there is parking, restrooms and picnic tables for your convenience. Stop, enjoy, and marvel at these largest trees in the world!!
Take it to the end then get out and explore - you will be glad you did. There are campgrounds, restrooms, a seasonal general store and incredible scenery. Walk the creek and spend a little time on the historic wooden bowstring arch bridge. It was built in 1938 and is the only one of its kind in existence in California! This would be the perfect spot to have lunch before heading up to Gem #2 a short six miles up McKinley Grove Road.
Amazingly, on most days you will have this all to yourselves...
McKinley Grove Road (Road 11S40) is a US Forest Service road, but is paved and easily traveled. You will notice that it winds its way through the forest past Laurel Creek and Bear Falls as the forest becomes thicker. As you near the six mile mark slow down or you will miss this Gem nestled in around a sharp right turn. Like Dinkey Creek, there is parking, restrooms and picnic tables for your convenience. Stop, enjoy, and marvel at these largest trees in the world!!
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