BIG PINE LAKES

Photo Tour
There are really 2 trailheads for this hike, but don't let that confuse you. They merge at about 1.5 miles. The backpacker trail starts a bit lower and is without shade for the first two miles. The trailhead near the day-use parking area is more scenic because it stays close to the North Fork of Big Pine creek.

Temple Crag
Temple Crag


At the beginning you will pass a couple of cabins. The trail then begins to climb and you will soon cross a bridge over the roaring creek. You will come to a junction for the North Fork and the South Fork trails. Turn right and head up the steeper North Fork trail. Once your past those initial switchbacks the trail becomes a bit more gradual. You will cross another bridge with picnic tables nearby. Turn left after you cross the bridge and head north up the wide path near the creek. In less than a mile, the trail will climb via a few long switchbacks and join up with the Backpacker's trail. Turn left and begin following the signed trail to the Big Pine Lakes.
The glacial waters of Big Pine Lake #3 in the John Muir Wilderness, Eastern Sierra
Glacial Waters





 The trail heads north and then curves west near Second Falls and switchbacks up a dry, rocky area till you reach a sign for the John Muir Wilderness at 2.2 miles. From here, a bit more climbing will lead you into Cienega Mirth and it's golden Aspens.

61. Cottonwoods in the North Fork of Big Pine Creek in the Eastern Sierra
Cottonwoods



 At 2.9 miles you will pass the backcountry ranger's residence. These stone cabins once belonged to horror-film star Lon Chaney. Continue your moderate climb through the aspens and then the trail will switchback above another section of cascades along the North Fork to a meadowy area.

A golden meadow in late summer at the foot of Temple Crag, John Muir Wilderness, Eastern Sierra, near Big Pine
Golden Meadow

 The Palisades and Temple Crag will soon come into view as you face another series of switchbacks. At 4.8 miles you will reach First Lake. Continue on for less than a mile, past Second Lake and you'll reach Third Lake. This is the spot for spectacular views of Temple Crag and great campsites. Return the way you came..

Cool Fact: The largest concentrations of 14,000 foot peaks in California, a total of 7, are located in the Palisades region of the Sierra Nevada. They are Split Mountain (14,058-ft), Middle Palisade (14,040-ft.), Mount Sill (14,162-ft), Polemonium Peak (14,200-ft), North Palisade (14,242-ft), Starlight Peak (14,200-ft), and Thunderbolt Peak (14,003-ft.)

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