I hiked Big Pines Lake Trail on a hot July morning, and it was nothing like I expected. The climb was real. The lakes were worth every step.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything, from the trailhead location to permits, packing, and the best time to go. You’ll know exactly what to prepare before you lace up your boots.
I’ve put together honest, firsthand information so you feel ready, not guessing.
Whether planning a day hike or an overnight trip, this blog covers it all.
Why Hike Big Pines Lake Trail California?
Few trails in California offer seven alpine lakes in a single out-and-back route. I’ve hiked a lot of trails, and this one stays with you.
The water color at First and Second Lake stops you in your tracks. You get towering granite, open skies, and fewer crowds as you go higher.
It’s a hard hike, yes. But the payoff is real. If you’re looking for big scenery without driving too far from Bishop or Mammoth Lakes, this trail makes a strong case.
Where Is Big Pines Lake Trail California?
Getting to the trailhead is straightforward once you know where to look.
Trailhead Location
The trail starts at the JM23 Big Pine Creek North Fork trailhead. It sits just outside the town of Big Pine, CA.
The road leading to the trailhead is paved for most of the way, with a short stretch of dirt near the end.
Parking fills up fast on weekends, so I recommend arriving before 7 AM to get a spot without stress.
Nearby Cities
Big Pine sits about 20 minutes from Bishop, CA. Mammoth Lakes is roughly an hour’s drive north.
Both towns have grocery stores, gear shops, and places to grab food before or after your hike. I always stop in Bishop for breakfast on the way in.
It makes the early start feel worth it.
Big Pines Lake Trail Overview (Quick Facts)
Here’s a quick look at the numbers before you hit the trail.
Distance: The roundtrip to Second Lake is about 11 miles. All seven lakes add up to 14 miles total. Know your pace and plan your turnaround time before you start.
Elevation Gain: You’ll gain roughly 3,000 to 3,500 feet, with most of it hitting in the first few miles. I felt the altitude kick in around 9,000 feet. Take it slow and drink water.
Trail Type: This is an out-and-back trail. It’s well-marked with signs at key junctions. The upper section gets quieter the further you go.
Big Pines Lake Trail Difficulty: Is It Easy?
This trail is rated moderate to strenuous for good reason.
Official Rating
Big Pines Lake Trail is rated moderate to strenuous. It is not an easy trail. The combination of distance, elevation gain, and exposure makes it a real physical effort.
I wouldn’t recommend this trail to someone who hasn’t hiked regularly. But with the right prep, it’s very doable.
Why It’s Challenging
A few things make this trail tough:
The uphill climb is long and exposed in the early miles.
High elevation means less oxygen, especially above 10,000 feet. Summer heat hits hard on the open sections.
Mosquitoes can be brutal from June through early August.
Who Should Hike It?
Fit beginners who train ahead of time can do this trail. Intermediate hikers will find the pace manageable with breaks.
Backpackers who want alpine scenery without technical climbing will love it here. I’d put this trail in the “challenging but accessible” category for anyone in decent shape who prepares well.
Permits for Big Pines Lake Trail
Permit rules are simple but worth knowing before you book.
Day Hiking: No permit is required. You can show up, park, and go. The parking lot fills up early on summer weekends, so arrive before 7 AM. A National Forest Adventure Pass may be required depending on where you park.
Overnight Backpacking: A wilderness permit is required for overnight trips. Book up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov and select JM23 as your entry point. These permits sell out fast, so set a reminder and be ready when the window opens.
Walk-Up Permits: A limited number of walk-up permits are released at 11 AM the day before at Inyo National Forest visitor centers. It’s not guaranteed, but worth trying. Show up early and have a backup plan.
What to Expect on Big Pines Lake Trail
The trail changes a lot from start to finish, and that’s part of what makes it so good.
The First Climb
The first few miles hit hard. The trail climbs steeply with little shade. You’ll pass a couple of waterfalls and cross the creek more than once.
The views open up as you gain elevation, which helps push you through the tough sections. I remember stopping at the first waterfall just to catch my breath and take it in.
The Seven Lakes Highlights
First and Second Lakes are the most visited. The water is a bright blue-green color that looks almost unreal next to the granite walls.
Temple Crag rises up behind Second Lake and makes for one of the best views on the trail.Third, Fourth, and Fifth Lakes see fewer people.
Fifth Lake especially feels like a spot most hikers skip. It’s quieter, less photographed, and completely worth the extra distance.
Sixth and Seventh Lakes are the most remote. You’ll likely have them mostly to yourself. The trail thins out up there, so pay attention to where you’re stepping.
Best Time to Hike Big Pines Lake Trail California
Timing your hike right makes a big difference in what you experience.
Summer (July through August)
The trail is snow-free and the lakes are at their deepest color. This is also the most crowded time of year.
Expect full parking lots and company at the popular lakes. Mosquitoes are at their worst during this window, especially near the water. Bring repellent.
Fall (September through October)
Fall is my favorite time to be on this trail. Crowds thin out, temperatures drop, and the aspen trees turn gold along the lower sections.
The lakes are still accessible and the air feels clearer. I’d take a September morning on this trail over a July afternoon any day.
Camping and Backpacking Big Pines Lake Trail CA
Staying overnight opens up a side of this trail most day hikers never see.
Best Campsites
The area around Second Lake is the most popular spot to camp. It’s easy to see why. The views are hard to beat.
That said, the granite shelf sites higher up offer better airflow and fewer bugs. I camped near the shelf on my second trip and slept much better than I did near the water.
Bear Safety
Bear canisters are strongly recommended on this trail. Bears are active in the area, especially during late summer.
Keep food sealed, store your canister away from your tent, and never leave snacks in your pack overnight. The Inyo National Forest has strict rules about food storage, and rangers do check.
Campfire Rules
Campfires are not allowed in the lakes basin. This is a firm rule, not a suggestion. Use a camp stove for cooking and bring a headlamp for light after dark.
The no-fire policy protects the fragile landscape up there, and it’s easy to follow with the right gear.
What to Pack for Big Pines Lake Trail
Pack smart and you’ll spend more time enjoying the trail and less time struggling.
- Bring 2 to 3 liters of water. The trailhead has no water source and the exposed sections get hot fast.
- Pack high-calorie snacks you can eat on the move. I always go with nuts, dried fruit, and something salty.
- Bring trekking poles. They make a real difference on the steep climb up and the long descent back down.
- For overnight trips, pack a lightweight tent and a sleeping bag rated to 30 or 40 degrees.
- A bear canister and water filtration system are required for backpacking. Test all your gear at home before you go.
Final Thoughts
I still think about Second Lake on rough days. That turquoise water backed by Temple Crag doesn’t leave you easily.
This trail asks a lot of you. But it gives back more. If you’ve been putting off this hike because it seems too hard, I’d say go for it. Prep well, start early, and take your time on the climb.
Have you hiked Big Pines Lake Trail before? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.
And if this guide helped you plan your trip, share it with a friend who’s thinking about going.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Big Pines Lake Trail to Second Lake?
Most hikers finish the roundtrip to Second Lake in 5 to 7 hours. Starting early helps you beat the afternoon heat.
Do I need a permit for a day hike on Big Pines Lake Trail?
No permit is needed for a day hike. For overnight camping, book a wilderness permit through Recreation.gov in advance.
Are dogs allowed on Big Pines Lake Trail?
Yes, dogs are allowed but must stay on a leash. Bring extra water for them since the exposed sections get warm.
What is the best lake to visit on Big Pines Lake Trail?
Second Lake is the most popular, with bright blue water and great views of Temple Crag. Fifth Lake is a quieter pick if you want fewer people around.
Is Big Pines Lake Trail safe for solo hikers?
Yes, the trail is well-marked and sees regular foot traffic. Tell someone your plans, carry a phone or GPS, and know your limits before going alone.
