Lake Sabrina Fall Colors in California 2025

Lake Sabrina is a part of the Bishop Creek Canyon–one of the state's top destinations for enjoying the fall foliage. If you drive along CA Highway 168 W., you'll eventually reach the lake, which got its name from Mrs. Sabrina Hobbs, the wife of the first Manager of Nevada Power Company. There are several names to pronounce the lake's name, but we suggest you learn it from the locals when you arrive at the spot.

Visitors are guaranteed to get a fairytale experience and witness bright rusty colors and amber hues, accentuating the natural beauty of the craggy landscape. Nowadays, Lake Sabrina is among the most suitable spots for taking photos. Every vista differs, but in general, the contrast between cold-blue shadows and golden sunlit trees works its magic.

When To Go

The best time to see fall foliage around Lake Sabrina is mid-September through early October. It is during this time that leaves start changing color. The area reaches its peak of brightness at the end of September and in the first days of October. So plan your trip, and don't forget to book your accommodation beforehand, as Lake Sabrina is extremely busy this time of year.

Activities

When you arrive at the place, you have several options for spending your time. First, there is a picturesque hiking trail along the lake side, so feel free to sign up for that challenge. Then, there is a family-friendly cafe, serving as an amazing dessert-stop spot. Lastly, you can relax by throwing a picnic on the lakeshore with your loved ones. Whichever option you end up choosing, you will have a wonderful time.

Lake Sabrina Nearby Area Fall Colors

Near the lake, there are several spots that mesmerize with their beauty when the leaves change color. Despite the trip taking some time, it is worth visiting these places to experience the fall beauty of nature that awaits you there. These spots are worth visiting if you are already at the starting point—Lake Sabrina.

Sierra National Forest

Sierra National Forest, located 170 miles (273 kilometers), is an excellent place to visit from the end of September until late November to experience the full fall foliage. In Sierra National Forest, you will have a chance to walk surrounded by oaks, cottonwood, willows and shrubs, dogwoods, and aspens. The forest has two popular highway corridors that lead to forest roads and areas to explore: the Sierra Heritage Scenic Byway and the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway. Both feature magnificent views and promise never-to-gorget memories of this season.

Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley is known for its stunning scenery, including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. In the fall, black oak, bigleaf maple, elm, sugar maple, black poplar, and other trees paint this place, making this area even more magical. You may also want to see the Giant Sequoias of Yosemite National Park, which are an indisputable highlight of this place. Yosemite National Park is located 150 miles (241 km) from Lake Sabrina.