Charlotte Lake
Lake · 10,390 ft · Eastern Sierra corridor
Charlotte Lake sits at 10,390 feet in the Eastern Sierra's high-alpine corridor, a glacially-carved basin fed by snowmelt. Colder and more exposed than lower Sierra lakes, it demands respect for avalanche terrain and afternoon wind.
Wind funnels across Charlotte Lake in the afternoon, averaging 13 mph with gusts to 37 mph. Morning hours hold calmer air; expect wind to rise by midday and peak in late afternoon. The lake remains frozen well into spring at this elevation. Temperature swings from single digits in winter to mid-30s in peak summer.
The 30-day average wind of 13 mph and typical score of 37 reflect Charlotte Lake's exposure to Sierra wind tunneling. Conditions remain marginal through spring snowmelt; the lowest 30-day score dropped to 4, signaling severe wind or unstable conditions. Watch for rapid temperature shifts and lingering snowpack that affects water access and avalanche risk on surrounding slopes.
30 days back / 7 days forward
Today's score by factor
About Charlotte Lake
Charlotte Lake drains via Bubbs Creek into the Kings River system in the Eastern Sierra's high country. Access is via the Kearsarge Pass trailhead near Independence, California, on US Highway 395 south of Bishop. The lake sits in Kings Canyon National Park's backcountry, roughly 8 to 10 miles from the trailhead depending on route choice. The nearest town with services is Independence, located on Highway 395. Charlotte Lake is a destination for backpacking and high-alpine camping; most visitors approach in late spring through early fall when snow has receded enough to permit water access.
At 10,390 feet, Charlotte Lake experiences extreme seasonal swings. Winter temperatures drop below freezing for months; the 365-day minimum is 6 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer highs reach mid-30s on average. The 30-day average of 22 degrees reflects the current spring transition with persistent snowpack. Wind is relentless; the 30-day average wind of 13 mph is typical for this exposure, and 37 mph gusts are common when fronts pass. The lake carries avalanche terrain risk on surrounding peaks; assess snowpack stability before traveling cross-country or ascending nearby slopes.
Charlotte Lake suits experienced backpackers and mountaineers comfortable at high elevation with unpredictable weather and avalanche exposure. The base popularity of 0.25 indicates low foot traffic and minimal developed facilities. Visitors should plan for self-sufficiency: water is available from the lake and creeks, but fuel, food, and shelter must be carried in. Afternoon wind makes mornings the preferred window for water-based activity or exposed camp work. Expect crowding of 3 on average, meaning sparse company even in peak season. Parking at the trailhead fills on weekends in late summer; arrive early or plan a weekday approach.
The Kearsarge Pass corridor connects to Onion Valley and other high-elevation lakes along the same drainage. Visitors splitting time between Charlotte Lake and nearby Bullfrog Lake or Matlock Lake experience similar wind and temperature patterns. The high-altitude location and avalanche terrain demand route-finding skills and current snowpack awareness. Check conditions with the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center before any trip involving gullies or steep slopes near the lake. Water crossings fed by snowmelt can be dangerous in early season; late July onwards presents lower ford risk.