Five Amazing Spots to Hike Your iSUP Into
One of the true joys of owning an inflatable paddle board is the freedom it gives you to explore remote bodies of water. Another added benefit is that your board can serve as a mattress if you decide to spend the night so get out there and explore!
One of the most wonderful aspects of owning on inflatable stand up paddle board is the ability to hike it into remote spots where you can commune with nature and not have to deal with others out on the water. We’ve come up with 5 fantastic spots around the country that are ideal for hiking into with your iSUP.
Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe, CA
Photo Credit: Kayak Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is SUP Mecca for many, and Emerald Bay is one of the most beautiful spots to paddle on this massive lake. The 1-mile trail down to Emerald Bay can be accessed by the Vikingsholm parking lot which is just off Highway 89 and about 12 miles from South Lake Tahoe.
The parking lot tends to fill up quickly so you will want to get there early. If you decide that you would rather not schlep your iSUP in, Kayak Tahoe does rent Glide SUP’s right on the beach. Emerald Bay is a protected cove which gives a nice break from the wind conditions that often affect the rest of the lake.
It is also compact enough that paddlers can easily explore shoreline, the creek below Eagle Falls.. Fannette Island is only accessible via paddling and offers a short hiking trail to the tea house, which was built by the owner of Vikingsholm, to entertain guests.
Dream Lake, CO
There are many reasons that Dream Lake is one of the most popular destination hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. If you get there early enough in the morning the lake is a vision straight out of a dream. The hike is roughly 1.1 mile and begins at the Bear Lake trailhead and passes Nymph Lake along the way.
The lake is considered a “high altitude” lake at 9,905 feet of elevation. Fishing on Dream Lake is terrific as cutthroat trout are plentiful, so you may want to bring your fishing SUP. Once you reach the lake shore, you will be treated to the gorgeous sights of Hallet Peak and Flattop Mountain as these iconic mountains are on full display.
Lonesome Lake, NH
Lonesome Lake is a gorgeous 12.2-acre body of water that is in Franconia Notch in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The lake is reachable via a 1.6-mile hike from the Franconia Notch Parkway and will take roughly 2-3 hours round trip. The hike is fairly steep as it gains just over 1,000 feet of elevation.
On a still day, the lake's surface impossibly glassy – clear, reflective, and beautiful. Lonesome Lake is one of those places that makes it easy to love the Granite State. We’re guessing that you haven’t pumped your SUP up in a more beautiful spot.
Phelps Lake, WY
Phelps Lake is a glacially carved lake which is a 3.6-mile hike in. The water of Phelps Lake is so clear you can count the rocks beneath the water's surface for as far as your eyes can focus which makes the view from your SUP even more spectacular.
Phelps Lake was once the centerpiece of the renowned Rockefellers family retreat and you can witness elk, bald eagles, cutthroat trout and marmots. Keep an eye out for wildlife as there are plenty of moose and bears in the area. Bear spray is always a good idea in the Tetons
Blue Lake, ID
Blue Lake Trail is a short but fairly steep hike to Blue Lake, offering beautiful panoramic views, of Long Valley, Lake Cascade and the lake, from the road before you get to the trailhead. The trail provides approximately 1.3 miles of easy to moderate hiking.
The pathway is slightly rocky, has a gradual decline, and, depending on the season, winds through droves of vibrant wildflowers or beautiful pines until you reach the lake. The lake itself does not disappoint and is aptly named as the clear water transcends into a dark blue as you look towards the center of the lake.
One of the true joys of owning an inflatable paddle board is the freedom it gives you to explore remote bodies of water. Another added benefit is that your board can serve as a mattress if you decide to spend the night so get out there and explore!
Related Topics
The Ultimate Guide On Finding Places to Paddle Board Near You
Five Great Winter SUP Fishing Spots
Your Comprehensive Guide to Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards
