Deer Lake

Pros: Lake is a good source of water. Campsites are dispersed over a wide area, and paths ensure campers don’t have to walk through neighbor’s campsites. Tent sites are mostly duff, so tent should stay reasonably clean. Terrain is hilly, so each site is unique. Cons: Suitable tent sites are small for anything but a 1 person tent, and they’re off level enough for sleeping pads to slide downhill overnight.

I've hiked most of our National Parks. Deer Lake is a nice destination for lunch or camping. HOWEVER, the trail condition is terrible. The hike up to Deer Lake is only approx four miles, BUT the elevation gain is 1700ft. Due to the uneven, unstable rocky trail, the hike is damn near twice as difficult. Your knees and ankles will pay the price. Continuing past Deer Lake, the trail up to Seven Lakes Basin is much better since it's not as steep or rocky. You've been warned ⚠️

Did the 7 Lakes Basin Trail and got to see a deer in our camp here! Take a look!

Great as a destination for a day hike turned overnight backpack. Low on views unless you head up to the ridge but the lake itself is beautiful!

Tough & steep hike for a scenic, but not spectacular, lake (especially considering the lack of solitude). Still.. we did see deer, and the meadow is pretty