Mileage: 0.8 mile
Elevation: 6000 to 6000 feet
Difficulty: Easiest
Use Level: Moderate
Season: June through October
Topographic Map: Sierra city 7.5'

Access: On Highway 49, approximately five miles east of Sierra City, turn onto Gold Lake Highway at Bassetts Station. Continue for about one and four-tenths mile, turn left at Salmon Creek bridge, and proceed west toward Sardine Lake for approximately one mile to the Sand Pond Swim Area parking lot. (This trail can also be accessed near Unit 3 of Sardine Lake Campground.)

Trail Description: The trail begins either at the gate on the west (right) side of the parking lot near the sign explaining the history of Sand Pond, or at a point adjacent to the accessible parking area on the east side of the lot. The western route passes through the picnic area between the dressing room and lake. The eastern trailhead route and the remainder of Sand Pond Trail are designed to meet accessibility standards at Challenge Level 2 (facilities are useable by an athletic disabled person without assistance but generally, a person with limited mobility would probably need assistance). Both trailheads serve the same trail.

At the southeast end of the lake the trail splits. The right fork will take you around Sand Pond and the left fork is the Sand Pond Interpretive Loop Trail. This trail provides an interesting route through a forest/marsh transitional zone and discusses some of the elements and relationships that occur here. A variety of wildlife live in this area and its a good spot for viewing birds, insects, and sometimes, beaver. The interpretive signs located along the route will help you explore and enjoy the area.