Separating Lake Tahoe and Yosemite on the spine of the Sierra Nevada, the Moke­lumne Wilderness is home to wildflower fields, 10,000-foot volcanic peaks, and 105,165 acres of untrammeled land. This 3,000-foot-deep canyon cuts through the thick of it. Take California 88 from the north and stop by the Amador ranger office for a permit. By the time you reach the rocky canyon, six miles in, you'll have the secret, if frigid, lakes all to yourself (look for Blue Hole, near Tanglefoot Trail, in the southwestern corner of the canyon). Tip: Bring bear spray.