Big Pine Lakes: A Must-Do Hike in California

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I first stumbled upon pictures of the Big Pine Lakes hike right after returning from hiking in Glacier National Park last summer. I have lived in California for my entire life and still had no idea that beautiful glacier lakes like this existed here. I knew I needed to hike this trail, and 11 months later, I made it happen.

If you’re looking for a hike that will make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a screensaver, the Big Pine Lakes Trail in the Eastern Sierra Nevadas is one for the bucket list. This is not your average forest loop or hillside stroll — this trail takes you through alpine forests, past waterfalls, and up to a series of stunning turquoise lakes that look almost too vibrant to be real. It’s truly one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever done–and I’ve been to some amazing places.

I completed this hike with a couple of girl friends, however, it is one that my kids would have had no issue doing since they are plenty active. We saw some kids on the trail, and I would definitely go back with my whole family.

Where Is The Big Pine Lakes Hike?

Big Pine Lakes is located just west of the small town of Big Pine, California, along Highway 395. You’ll find the trailhead in the John Muir Wilderness at the end of Glacier Lodge Road. There’s a parking lot at the trailhead, but it fills up quickly — especially on summer weekends — so get there early!

We went on a Tuesday morning in July and parked just before 6am. There were still several spots open at that time, but I can imagine that weekends are much busier.

The Big Pine Lakes Hike at a Glance

• Trail Name: Big Pine Lakes Trail (North Fork)
• Distance: ~15 miles round trip to all 7 lakes; 11.5 miles and ~2400 elevation gain if you only do the first 3 lakes.
• Elevation Gain: ~3,000 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (mostly due to the length of hike and the elevation you’re hiking at)
• Best Time to Go: Late June through early October (when the snow has melted and the lakes are at peak color)

What Makes Big Pine Lakes So Special?

The color of the lakes. No, seriously — photos barely do it justice. The glacial melt gives these lakes their signature milky turquoise hue, and it’s absolutely surreal in person.

The trail winds through pine forests, passes First Falls and Lon Chaney’s historic stone cabin, and opens up to dramatic views of Temple Crag and the snow-streaked Sierra peaks. Once you reach First, Second, and Third Lakes, you’ll want to plop down and soak in the scenery for a while — maybe even take a (very cold!) dip.

Each lake is worth the effort, but if you’re short on time or energy, making it to the first three is plenty rewarding. More ambitious hikers can continue on to Lakes 4 through 7, or even make it an overnight backpacking trip.

We chose to only hike to lakes 1-3 this time. We wanted to get back early enough to explore Bishop a bit before heading back. But I would go back again and hike to all seven lakes in a heartbeat.

What to Pack for the Big Pine Lakes Hike

• Daypack (20–30L) – Comfortable with good support and hydration storage.
• Plenty of Water – 2–3 liters minimum (the trail is exposed and dry!). A hydration bladder works great.
• Electrolytes – Tablets or powdered drink mix to prevent dehydration.
• Trail Snacks + Lunch – Think protein bars, jerky, fruit, nuts, or a packed sandwich.
• Bugspray & Sunscreen
• Check out my full list of favorite hiking gear & apparel

Things to Know Before You Go

• Permits: Day hikes don’t require a permit, but overnight trips do, and they go fast. You can reserve permits on Recreation.gov.
• Altitude: The trail starts around 7,800 feet and climbs to over 10,000 feet. Take it slow if you’re not used to the elevation.
• Weather: Even in summer, it can get chilly, especially at higher elevations. Bring layers and always check the weather forecast.
• Bears: This is bear country! If you’re camping, you’ll need a bear canister.
• Dogs: Yep, dogs are allowed on the trail (on leash), but make sure they’re up for the challenge — and bring plenty of water for them too.

Pro Tips for the Big Pine Lakes Trail

• Start Early: This trail is popular and gets hot by midday. Plus, the early morning light on the lakes is magical.
• Download the Trail Map: You won’t have any service on the trail, so having the trail map downloaded from AllTrails will be helpful. While there are signs along the way, it’s always better to be prepared. AllTrails+ will notify you if you go off trail.
• Pack a Picnic: You’ll want time to relax and enjoy the views — the shores of Second Lake make a perfect lunch spot.
• Photography Lovers: Bring a wide-angle lens if you can. The backdrop of Temple Crag against the lakes is one of the most photogenic scenes in the Sierra.

Make It a Weekend

We traveled from San Diego, so we stayed in Bishop the night before our hike and the night after. Big Pine would have been closer to the trailhead, however there are a lot more lodging and food options in Bishop. You can also check out campgrounds along Glacier Lodge Road if you want to be closer to the trailhead.

Here are some great hotel options near the Big Pine Lakes trailhead. The city of Big Pine is the closer option, but if you prefer a slightly larger town with more amenities, the nearby town of Bishop is a good option (about a 25–30 minute drive):

🏨 In Big Pine (closest to trailhead)

• Starlight Motel
  • Very highly rated (8.9/10 on Booking.com) and budget‑friendly (~$99/night).
  • Features BBQ area, free Wi‑Fi, and even a chicken roaming in the patio! Perfect for a cozy one‑night stop before hitting the trail.
• Bristlecone Motel
  • Decently rated (7.2/10) with rooms starting around $99/night .
  • Pet-friendly, includes free Wi‑Fi, fridge, and coffee maker. Located right off Hwy 395 with convenience store/gas station—ideal for fueling up early before the hike.

🏨 In Bishop (for more amenities & dining options)

• Cielo Hotel Bishop–Mammoth (Ascend Collection)
  • Mid-range boutique hotel with free Wi‑Fi, fitness center, outdoor patio with a fire pit; often recommended by hikers (“clean, simple breakfast”)
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bishop by IHG
  • Well-rated (8.0/10), offers a complimentary hot breakfast, cozy lounge, and free Wi‑Fi
  • Good for families or groups needing amenities like a lounge and breakfast setup.
• Vagabond Inn Bishop
  • Pet‑friendly with outdoor pool, hot tub, free Wi‑Fi, plus an on-site BBQ area and convenience features like fish‑cleaning stations and RV parking — great for a comfortable base after a day on the trail
• Best Western Bishop Lodge
  • Popular choice with pool, hot tub, gym, and free Wi‑Fi; highly rated around ~$148/night
• Wayfinder Bishop
  • This is the fanciest hotel in Bishop. With 87 distinctive rooms, rustic-modern design inspired by the High Sierra, and on-site restaurants—the Whistling Trout and Creekside Club—it offers hearty breakfast, crafted beers/wines, and relaxing fire‑pit seating by Bishop Creek. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, sauna, fish‑cleaning room, and warm, inviting décor praised for its small‑town charm and “perfect little gem” atmosphere.

🛌 Choosing the Right Spot

• For earliest trail access and a laid-back vibe, go with Starlight Motel or Bristlecone Motel in Big Pine. You can roll out early and be on the trail in no time.
• For a cozy, upscale-basecamp vibe, especially post-hike relaxation by a creek with quality food and drinks, Wayfinder Bishop is a fantastic pick.
• For convenience and comfort, the Holiday Inn Express or Best Western will give you reliable service and included breakfast.
• If you’re traveling with pets or need extra outdoor space, Vagabond Inn is equipped to handle both.

Final Thoughts

Big Pine Lakes is one of those hikes that sticks with you. Between the dramatic mountain vistas, glacial lakes that look like they’ve been Photoshopped, and the peacefulness of the high Sierra wilderness, it’s an unforgettable adventure for any nature lover. Whether you tackle it in a day or spend the night under the stars, this trail is pure California magic.

For more to do in the area, check out these Mammoth Lakes Campgrounds, explore the Village at Mammoth Mountain, choose another of the best hikes in Mammoth Lakes area, or check out the June Lake Oh Ridge Campground.

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