Big Pine Lakes North Fork
A series of stunning alpine lakes in the Eastern Sierra Nevada, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking turquoise waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for vibrant lake colors
Big Pine Lakes North Fork
Best Time
Ideal for vibrant lake colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A series of stunning alpine lakes in the Eastern Sierra Nevada, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking turquoise waters.
"The most beautiful lake we have ever seen in California. 
🎒 Pack Layers!
Weather changes fast! Bring a tank top, shorts, pants, sweatshirt, and extra socks.
🐻 Bear Canister Needed
Essential for overnight trips to store scented items safely.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.9 · 138 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Second Lake
Big Pine Lakes Trail
A breathtaking alpine lake with stunning turquoise waters, often called the most beautiful in California.
Temple Crag Views
Overlooking the 7 Lakes Basin
Majestic granite peaks that provide a dramatic backdrop to the pristine alpine lakes.
Seven Lakes Basin
North Fork Big Pine Creek
A series of pristine alpine lakes offering diverse scenery and incredible photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permits are Essential
Be Prepared for All Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack Layers!
Weather changes fast! Bring a tank top, shorts, pants, sweatshirt, and extra socks.
🐻 Bear Canister Needed
Essential for overnight trips to store scented items safely.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The elevation gain is significant; drink plenty of water on the trail.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is surreal; don't forget your camera for epic shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack Layers!
Weather changes fast! Bring a tank top, shorts, pants, sweatshirt, and extra socks.
🐻 Bear Canister Needed
Essential for overnight trips to store scented items safely.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The elevation gain is significant; drink plenty of water on the trail.
📸 Capture the Views
The scenery is surreal; don't forget your camera for epic shots.
👟 Strenuous Hike Ahead
Be prepared for a challenging climb, even if you're in shape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Big Pine Lakes North Fork for its breathtaking, fairytale-like scenery, with many calling it one of California's most beautiful destinations. The challenging hike is considered worth the effort for the stunning alpine lakes and dramatic mountain views. However, the strenuous nature of the trail and the unpredictable, often harsh weather conditions are significant challenges for many.
"Definitely worth the hike up, even just to the first 2 lakes. Went in early October, and the weather was pretty chilly at the top, so being another layer if you're going up in the colder months."
Austin
"Breathtaking! Literally and figuratively. Absolutely worth it, views galore throughout the hike, lakes are out of fairytale, BUT this is a difficult hike. Even if you're in shape, the elevation + elevation gain will get you. It's a constant climb on the way up, and it feels like it will never end."
Milica Cubrilo
"Best hike I've ever been on and I'm hiking almost every weekend! The main challenge is the elevation gain in the beginning, and then the weather change once you get to the lakes. It was wild! We went from beautiful sunny skies to hail, snow, lighting, thunder and rain all within 30 minutes. The most epic adventure though, and stunning scenery. The fall colors were just starting to peak too. It honestly was so surreal and I can't wait to go back. We only made it to Lake 2 because of the thunderstorm but I hear Lake 5 is gorgeous as well and you shouldn't miss it! Oh and bring a change of clothes! I wore a tank and shorts then had to change into pants and a sweatshirt. Used my extra hiking socks as gloves too because I got soaked from the rain hah"
Keliana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big Pine Lakes North Fork is located in the Inyo National Forest, Eastern Sierra Nevada. The trailhead is accessible from Big Pine, California. It's about an hour from Mammoth Lakes.
The road to the Big Pine Lakes trailhead is generally paved and accessible for most vehicles. However, conditions can vary, especially in winter.
Driving is the most common way to reach the trailhead. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for mountain driving.
Shuttle services are not commonly advertised for the Big Pine Lakes trailhead. Most visitors drive their own vehicles.
The drive to the trailhead from Big Pine city is relatively short, but the hike itself is a significant undertaking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit is required for overnight backpacking trips to Big Pine Lakes. Day use does not typically require a permit, but it's always best to check current regulations.
Permits can be reserved online through recreation.gov. They are highly sought after, so booking months in advance is recommended. Many people use paid notification services to snag cancellations.
Big Pine Lakes is an outdoor natural area and is generally accessible year-round, weather permitting. However, the trailhead and surrounding forest roads may have seasonal closures.
While there isn't a direct entrance fee for the trail itself, you may need to pay for parking or a wilderness permit depending on the season and your activity.
Day hiking to the lower lakes (like Lake 1 or 2) generally does not require a permit. However, for overnight stays, a permit is mandatory.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Big Pine North Fork trail is approximately 15 miles round-trip to the 7 Lakes Basin, with about 4,000 feet of elevation gain.
Yes, it's considered a difficult hike due to the significant elevation gain and length. Even fit individuals will find it challenging.
While all lakes are beautiful, Lake 2 is frequently highlighted for its stunning turquoise color. Lakes 3 and 5 are also popular destinations.
Yes, you can swim in Big Pine Lakes, but be prepared for very cold alpine water, even in summer.
You might encounter deer, marmots, and various bird species. Remember to store food properly to avoid attracting bears.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour is particularly magical.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and lakes. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing reflections.
The areas around Lake 2 and Lake 5 offer iconic views of Temple Crag reflected in the water. The entire trail provides numerous scenic overlooks.
Drone usage is often restricted in National Forests and wilderness areas. Always check current regulations before flying a drone.
Summer and fall offer vibrant colors, with fall foliage adding a unique charm. Winter can provide dramatic snow-covered landscapes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit