DESCRIPTION

 A hike up the North Fork of Big Pine Creek is a Sierra classic. The exquisite scenery of this area is legendary. North Palisade (elev. 14,242) and cathedral-like Temple Crag, two of the most captivating peaks in the entire Sierra, are viewed prominently from the trail. A lovely chain of lakes, colored a surreal shade of aqua blue from glacial sediment, provide outstanding campsites for backpackers and terrific destinations for day hikers. The Palisades, the largest cluster of 14,000-foot peaks in the Sierra, form the awesome eastern headwall of this archetypal glacial canyon. The vibrant cascades along Big Pine Creek are a constant reminder that this canyon drains more than mere mountains; it drains the Palisade Glacier, the southernmost active glacier in the U.S!

In the first two weeks of October, this stunning region of the Sierra is at its most beautiful. This is when the Aspens and the Cottonwoods turn a brilliant shade of gold. The rich fall color is set against soaring granite peaks, aqua-hued lakes and the deep blue sierran sky. What more could a hiker ask for?