Nestled amidst the granite-studded mountains of California’s Sierra National Forest, Shaver Lake is a sapphire gem surrounded by a lush pine forest. With its crystal-clear waters, verdant meadows, and towering trees, Shaver Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and solitude in nature.
Whether you’re looking to fish, swim, hike, camp, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, Shaver Lake has something for everyone. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the history, facts, weather, and activities you can enjoy in this stunning destination.
Overview
Shaver Lake is located 50 miles northeast of Fresno and 186 miles east of California’s central coast. The lake is at an elevation of 5,500 feet, compared to Huntington Lake, which levels out at 7,000 feet. The climate is mild, with cool summers and mild winters, making it an ideal year-round destination. Shaver Lake is open year-round for fishing, and anglers can find a variety of naturally occurring and artificially stocked fish.
History
Shaver Lake has a rich history that dates back to the late 1800s.
In the early 1890s, Lewis P. Swift and Charles B. Shaver discovered the untamed region and established the Shaver sawmill, which operated until the late 1890s, to provide lumber to Fresno, Clovis, and neighboring areas like Auberry, Big Creek, and Lakeshore.
The first Shaver Lake was created by constructing a small dam and ponding lake for logs. Here, a 45-mile flume sent sawn lumber to Clovis, California. In the 1920s, Southern California Edison built the Shaver Lake Dam, which formed the current lake, as part of the Big Creek Hydroelectric project. The dam featured a system of lakes, tunnels, steel penstocks, and powerhouses that converted water into electricity.
Constructed during the 1930s by Eloise and Charlie Eckert, the Shaver Lake Village Hotel, formerly recognized as Eckert’s Lodge, was acknowledged as the finest destination for an excellent meal in the region. It was a popular destination for visiting tourists and seasonal employees of the Shaver Lake area.
Today, visitors can learn about the human and natural history of the foothill, forest, and alpine ecospheres at the Sierra Historical Society Museum, which has a collection of artifacts found when Shaver Lake was drained for dam repairs. The Greater Shaver Lake Visitors Bureau is another year-round vacation destination with activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring interactive museums.
Weather
Shaver Lake’s climate is ideal for outdoor activities, with the temperature remaining comfortable all year long. During summers, temperatures in the Shaver Lake area are usually mild and agreeable, with daytime temperatures averaging around the mid-70s (Fahrenheit) and nighttime temperatures dropping to the low 50s. Winters are mild, with occasional snowfall and temperatures in the mid-40 degrees during the day and dropping to the low 20s at night.
Besides occasional wildfires and hailstorms, Fresno County is reasonably safe from natural disasters.
Wildlife
Shaver Lake is home to a variety of aquatic wildlife. Anglers can find rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. The lake is stocked annually with trout by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.
In addition to the fish, the lake is home to several species of amphibians, including the Pacific Treefrog and the Western Toad. It’s common to spot bald eagles soaring above the lake or to see a black bear or a mountain lion drinking from the lake’s edge.
Visitors are reminded to respect the natural habitat of the wildlife and never to feed or approach them.
What to Do
Shaver Lake is a perfect place for those who love the outdoors. From fishing and hiking to skiing and snowboarding, Shaver Lake is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Here are some of the best things to do at Shaver Lake.
- Fishing: Shaver Lake is a widely recommended destination for anglers looking for common trout, salmon, or catfish. With the lake open year-round, it’s always a great time to cast a line. There are also plenty of creeks and streams nearby for fishing enthusiasts to explore.
- Water Sports: If you love water sports, then Shaver Lake has something for you. Jet skis, sailboats, kayaks, and other watercraft can all be rented for hours or days on the lake. The lake is also great for water skiing and wakeboarding, with plenty of open space and calm water for these activities.
- Hiking: There are plenty of hiking trails to explore around Shaver Lake, ranging widely in difficulty. One of the most popular hikes is the Dinkey Lakes Wilderness Trail, which takes you to several alpine lakes. For a more challenging hike, check out the Kaiser Wilderness Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Camping: If you want to stay overnight, Shaver Lake has several camping options to choose from. Family Camp Chawanakee and Wishon Village RV Resort are two great options to consider. Both offer a variety of amenities, including showers, restrooms, and picnic areas.
In addition to these popular activities, there’s plenty more to do in Shaver Lake. In the winter, you can hit the slopes at China Peak Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding. If you’re interested in exploring the surrounding wilderness, consider taking a guided tour with a local outfitter. With so much to see and do, Shaver Lake is the perfect destination for your next outdoor adventure.
FAQs
Is Shaver Lake open year-round for fishing?
Yes, Shaver Lake is open year-round for fishing, with state fishing regulations applying.
What types of fish can I catch in Shaver Lake?
Anglers can find rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, bluegill, and catfish in Shaver Lake.
Are there any endangered species in Shaver Lake?
The Calasellus longus, an isopod discovered in 1981, is endangered and has never been found outside of Shaver Lake. Photos of the Calasellus Longus are incredibly rare.
