2018 Map of Donnell Lake

About this map

Donnell Lake dominates the central landscape of this high-elevation region within the Stanislaus National Forest. The geography is defined by the steep drainage of the Middle Fork Stanislaus River, which is supported by a network of smaller tributaries including Mill Cr, Niagara Cr, and Cascade Cr. Human activity in this wilderness area is marked by a complex system of Forest Service roads and specialized recreation paths like the Donnell Lake OHV 4x4 trail. The presence of the Donnell Tunnel reflects the engineering required to manage water and access in this difficult terrain. Scattered throughout are notable mountain landmarks such as Dome Rock, Pikes Peak, and Bull Run Rock, alongside alpine features like Burgson Lake and Herring Cr Reservoir. Tiny settlements and named locales like Wagner and Whittakers Dardanelles punctuate the forest, which is also characterized by numerous high meadows including Wheats Meadow and Horse Meadow.