Whether
your idea of getting away from it, all is
paddling along the shores of a serene lake or
indulging in photographing picturesque
landscapes, Topaz Lake is the place to go. With
magnificent panoramas of the eastern Sierra
Mountains and plenty of turquoise water to
paddle, Topaz Lake is the perfect getaway.
Topaz Lake is on the California/Nevada
border, about 75-miles south of Reno,
Nevada, at an elevation of 5,012 feet. The
lake is located in Mono County, California
and in Douglas County, Nevada, along
Nevada’s northwest border. Topaz Lake is a
man-made lake bordered by sage covered
mountains and is fed by the West Walker
River.
It’s no surprise that Topaz Lake is a top
kayak angling destination, with its
breathtaking surrounding views and the large
amount of rainbow trout stocked by the
Nevada and California Department of
Wildlife. The West Walker River carries
brown, rainbow and Lahontan trout through
its winding bends, which extend from Sonora
to Topaz Lake. This beautiful high desert
lake provides many outdoor activities to
enjoy. Water and jet skiing are popular
during the warmer months of the year. Late
September to early October is an ideal time
to enjoy kayaking in the crisp weather and
tranquil setting, while photographing a
vibrant patchwork of California’s fall
colors.
Outdoor lovers can also enjoy camping,
hiking and swimming. Most of the property
around the lake, both in Nevada and
California, is open to the public. Only
portions of the west shore in Nevada and
California and the far south end of the lake
in California are private property. If you
love the outdoors and would like to get a
little more involved, there are miles of
horseback riding and hiking trails for you
to enjoy.
Map of Topaz Lake
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