States Lakes
Lake · Eastern Sierra corridor
States Lakes sits at 10,489 feet in California's Eastern Sierra, a high-alpine lake basin with typically light wind and low crowds. Access via Highway 395 and seasonal high-Sierra routes.
Morning calm prevails; afternoon wind arrives predictably off the peaks. The 30-day average wind of 8 mph masks afternoon gusts to 25 mph. Cold at elevation year-round, with average temperature of 24 degrees Fahrenheit. Expect minimal crowds and stable conditions on weekday mornings.
Over the last 30 days, States Lakes averaged a NoGo Score of 13.0 with wind at 8 mph and temperatures holding at 24 degrees Fahrenheit. The week ahead tracks consistent with late-spring high-Sierra weather: mornings remain the safest window before afternoon wind builds off the surrounding peaks. Watch for rapid temperature swings and afternoon wind gusts reaching 25 mph by late day.
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About States Lakes
States Lakes occupies a glacially-scoured basin in the Eastern Sierra corridor at 10,489 feet elevation, roughly 45 miles north of Mammoth Lakes via Highway 395. The lake sits in the Inyo National Forest, accessed by high-country roads that open seasonally once snowpack recedes. Gateway towns include Mammoth Lakes and Lee Vining; most visitors approach via Highway 395 from the south or Highway 120 from the west when passable. The basin is small, remote, and lightly developed, making it a destination for hikers, peak baggers, and alpine lake fishers rather than day-trippers.
States Lakes sits in the rain shadow of the Sierra crest, receiving winter snow but less than the west slope. The 30-day rolling average temperature of 24 degrees reflects typical late-spring conditions at this elevation; year-round extremes range from 12 to 39 degrees Fahrenheit. Afternoon wind is the dominant pattern: calm mornings give way to predictable gusts by mid-day, with 30-day average wind of 8 mph and maxima reaching 25 mph. Crowding averages 3 out of 10, remaining low even in peak season due to access constraints and elevation. Snow lingers into late June; the basin is passable late June through early September for most visitors.
States Lakes suits alpine hikers, backcountry campers, and high-Sierra peak baggers who accept cold nights and predictable afternoon wind. Experienced visitors time trips for early morning or plan multi-day stays to spread activity across calmer early-day windows. Parking is minimal and informal; arrive early or expect to walk from a pullout. The lake itself is cold year-round, suitable for hardy swimmers or waders only. Fishing pressure is light. This location is best for self-sufficient users who carry warm layers, understand altitude acclimatisation, and plan around afternoon wind.
Nearby Mammoth Lakes basin offers more infrastructure and crowds but greater exposure to afternoon wind. Golden Lake to the south is more popular and experiences heavier use. States Lakes appeals to visitors seeking solitude and willing to trade amenities for reliable early-morning windows and consistently low crowds. The High Sierra Trail network puts nearby peaks and passes within reach for multi-day expeditions.