What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Curtz Lake and Summit Lake Loop
Within the recreation area, this short trail is an interpretive loop. It is an easy, pancake-flat stroll through what is left of the pine and sage forest going from lake to lake.
Length: 1.8 miles
Intensity: Easy
Grover Hot Springs Waterfall Trail
This is a short hike from the nearby Grover Hot Springs State Park to a spectacular waterfall. Check before you go, however, because the area is sometimes closed as a result of wildfires in the area.
Length: 2.3 miles
Intensity: Easy
Charity Valley Trail
This hike will take you uphill from just outside the state park area up to and along Charity Valley Creek to Hope Valley. It is part of the famous Carson Trail.
Length: 14 miles
Intensity: Strenuous
Fishing and Boating
A popular fishing access spot is found on the East Fork of the Carson River at Hangman’s Bridge, which is just past the town of Markleeville on the left. You will have the chance to catch wild trout, such as browns, rainbows, and Lahontan cutthroats, as well as mountain whitefish. There are boat ramps at Indian Creek Reservoir and further west on Highway 88 at Silver Lake and in South Lake Tahoe. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are also popular on the East Fork of the Carson River. You can literally float from California to Nevada if you have cars at the entry and exit points.
Climbing
The Fortress is a climb found along Highway 88 just east of the Crystal Springs Campground. There are other popular climbs in this area known as Woodfords Canyon. True Value Crag is out on Highway 4 south of Markleeville about two miles south of Monitor Pass. There is a bridge to the left near the access.
Wildlife Viewing
There are bears, deer, golden and bald eagles, squirrels, and chipmunks that can be readily spotted at the Indian Creek Recreation Area. There are also coyotes, Clark’s nutcrackers, and white-headed woodpeckers, as well as waterfowl in the lake.
Picnicking
Indian Creek Recreation Area has a day use area at the reservoir with four picnic tables, a boat ramp, and a flush toilet restroom facility. There is also another nice picnic area in the town of Markleeville right beside the most beautiful stone library in the Sierra. It has a shaded area, a mini park for your children, and picnic tables.
Historical Touring
If you go into the Markleeville visitor center, they will provide you with a brochure that will guide you on a tour of the historical sites in town. The best spot on the tour is the incredibly well-preserved and maintained schoolhouse.