Kirkwood Park adventures

Kirkwood Park Adventures

Kirkwood Park is a popular outdoor recreation area in the Sierra Nevada providing year-round activities including hiking, skiing, and fishing amid scenic mountain landscapes.

Approx. 2,500 acres
Acres Protected
15 miles
Miles of Trails
Over 150,000
Annual Visitors
1990s (designated as a park area, exact year varies)
Year Established

About Kirkwood Park

 

Kirkwood Park is located near the town of Kirkwood in Alpine County, California, at an elevation of approximately 7,800 feet in the Sierra Nevada range. The park lies within the Eldorado National Forest and the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest boundary, offering access to a rich range of alpine terrain, conifer forests, and pristine watersheds. The area is well known for its outdoor recreational opportunities throughout all seasons. In winter, Kirkwood Park becomes a prime destination for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, benefiting from heavy snowfall and varied terrain. During warmer months, visitors can enjoy hiking on well-maintained trails, fly-fishing in nearby lakes and streams, mountain biking, and camping. Wildlife in the park includes black bears, mule deer, various bird species, and occasional sightings of mountain lions. Kirkwood Park’s proximity to the Kirkwood Mountain Resort makes it both a gateway for winter sports enthusiasts and a serene retreat for summer adventurers. The park is also home to several picnic areas and trailheads, such as the beautiful Upper and Lower Kirkwood Lakes, which provide scenic spots for fishing and photography. The area's history includes legacy ties to Native American tribes and the development of Kirkwood as a mining and mountain resort community. Visitors appreciate the blend of accessible wilderness with developed amenities, making Kirkwood Park a favored destination for families, outdoor sports lovers, and nature photographers.

Highlights

Highlight

Kirkwood Mountain Resort – renowned ski runs and snow conditions

Highlight

Upper Kirkwood Lake – scenic fishing and wildlife viewing spot

Highlight

Pacific Crest Trail segment passing near the park

Highlight

Panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Sierra Nevada alpine landscape

Notable Natural Features

Kirkwood Mountain Resort

A world-class ski area offering some of the best snowboarding and skiing terrain in California, known for deep powder and diverse slopes.

Upper Kirkwood Lake

A tranquil high-elevation lake popular for fishing, birdwatching, and easy access scenic hikes.

Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Section

A segment of the famous PCT trail runs close to Kirkwood Park, providing opportunities for through-hikers and day hikes with spectacular views.