Hey traveler nomad, in this ultimate guide by Scout Traveler, we’ll dive into the best things to do in Shaver Lake like top things to do, local tips, and must-see spots that will make your visit unforgettable. Get ready to explore one of California’s most serene and scenic destinations with scout traveler professional’s guide!
Shaver Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and lush forest surroundings; this charming destination attracts over 200,000 visitors annually. Whether you’re into fishing, hiking, boating, or simply relaxing by the lake, Shaver Lake has something for everyone.
Things to do in Shaver Lake with kids
From water sports to hiking trails, this mountain retreat provides scenic beauty paired with memorable adventures kids will love. Here are some top highlights for family fun at Shaver Lake:
Go Fishing
Angling is a popular pastime at Shaver Lake that even the youngest kids can enjoy. Several kid-friendly fishing derbies are held each summer, providing instruction and bait for a fun learning experience. Families can also try their luck from the shore or rent a boat and hit popular fishing spots along the logjams. Bait shops offer a variety of beginner fishing poles perfect for little hands.
Hike the Trails
Over 30 miles of hiking paths wind through the pine forests and granite peaks surrounding Shaver Lake. Easy loops like North Grove and Cresta Lake allow young hikers to burn energy and spot native plants, birds and mountain scenery. Some even pass cascading creeks perfect for dipping hot feet. Be sure to pack snacks and water for little trekkers.
Enjoy Picnic Fun
On sunny days, the ample grassy lawns along Shaver Lake’s south shore make for ultimate family picnicking. Kids can run and play games on the huge grassy areas between snacks. Nearby playgrounds provide climbing equipment and slides, alongside views of the sparkling lake. Fresh grilled foods from lakeside restaurants are an easy picnic addition.
Roast Marshmallows
Whether at the large day use area or a family campsite, nothing beats a campfire for smores and stories under starry skies. Most sites at the North Shore and Dinkey Creek campgrounds include fire rings already stocked with kindling. S’more ingredients and outdoor games create lasting memories of family bonding in the great outdoors.
Visit the Marina
Shaver Lake features an activity hub of sorts at the full-service Shaver Lake Marina. Kids can browse the bait and tackle shop, view resident fish and turtles, or learn about local aquatic life. Interactive displays and trail maps provide educational exploration. Nearby ice cream and snack shops offer refreshing breaks too.
Get Crafty
Kids enjoy unleashing creativity, and forest trips provide ample natural materials. Teach budding artists to make leaf rubbing artworks, leaf presses, pine cone bird feeders and acorn caps. Hit the beach to build elaborate sand creations or search for polished granite pebbles. Budding scientists also love catching and observing insects with provided nets and jars.
Explore by Bike
Families can borrow bicycles from the marina to explore the scenic paved pathways around Shaver Lake. Young kids love toddling along on balance bikes or trail-a-bikes pulled behind loving parents. The mostly flat route provides gorgeous lake views alongside spots to spot wildlife like deer, squirrels and even osprey fishing the waters.
With its lovely forests, beaches and family friendly facilities, Shaver Lake captivates youngsters with each discovery. Making lasting mountain memories to cherish forever is easy among the natural splendors of this Sierra hotspot.
Things to do in Shaver Lake in winter
Glide across the frozen surface
When temperatures drop below freezing, the calm waters of Shaver Lake transform into a dazzling ice skating rink.
Outfitted with ice skates from the local marina, glide effortlessly across the glassy vistas. Early mornings offer the most pristine conditions before the sun arises.
Explore the winter wonderland
Bundle up for delightful snowshoeing or cross-country skiing tours through majestic forests blanketed in white powder.
Follow the groomed trails winding along the lake shoreline or through hushed woodlands aglow with frost. Spot wildlife tracks imprinted in the snow.
Cozy up by the fire
Nothing warms the soul like a roaring campfire on a frigid night. Many of Shaver Lake’s campgrounds remain open year-round, with fire pits and firewood available.
Roast s’mores and share winter adventure tales under the stars flickering overhead.
Try your luck ice fishing
Anglers patiently dangle lines through drilled holes searching for rainbow and brown trout lurking below the frozen surface.
A rare winter activity providing the challenge of luring in a big catch from below the ice! No license required for children.
Take a snow play day
When adequate powder falls, don your snow pants and head to the hills for a fun-filled day of sledding, tubing, snowball fights and more. Pine slope hills surrounding Shaver Lake make the perfect natural snow park.
Things to do in Shaver Lake summer
Go boating and watersports
Summer means hitting the lake! Rent a powerboat, fishing boat, personal watercraft, kayak or standup paddleboard from marinas. Water ski, wakeboard, tube or simply explore the 7-mile shoreline. Lifejackets required for all boarders and kids.
Hike scenic trails
Over 30 miles of trails wind through Sierra National Forest, from easy lakeside loops to steep ridge treks. Favorites include the North Grove and Savage Valley trails offering forest and meadow panoramas. Early mornings beat the heat.
Fish for trout
May through October provide prime trout fishing. Cast from a boat, shore or bridge in search of rainbow and brown trout lurking along logjams and rocky inlets.
Bait and fly shops provide supplies, tips and rental gear. Daily fishing licenses required for ages 16+.
Explore the Beach
on hot summer days, the sandy beaches along Shaver Lake’s shoreline are a kids’ paradise. Dig in the coarse granite sand, wade in the cool shallows, and build sandcastles to guard as waves lap at the shore. Lifeguards ensure safety for swimmers, and picnic areas make it easy to fuel up between activities. Don’t forget a bucket and shovel!
Enjoy lakefront dining
Beat the heat over lunch at one of the casual marina restaurants with patio seating and panoramic lake views.
The Bistro and Grill are local favorites for sandwiches, burgers, pizza and cold brews after a day on the water.
Final Thoughts on things to do in Shaver Lake
No matter the season, Shaver Lake promises treasure troves of activities beneath its lush pine forests and shimmering waters.
With hiking trails winding through painted hillsides, boats gliding across reflective surfaces and cozy campsites overlooking starry nights, this Sierra escape continually delights visitors with raw natural wonders.
Its peaceful, uncrowded charm provides the perfect retreat from rush of daily life to truly unwind in beauty of unspoiled wilderness.
Make Shaver Lake your next high Sierra destination for countless outdoor adventures and memories to last for years to come.