Intake Two Lake - Image 1
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Intake Two Lake

4.7
ยท97 reviewsยท, United States

A serene mountain lake in Bishop, CA, famed for its stunning fall foliage and excellent trout fishing.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

October mornings

Peak fall colors & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Intake Two Lake - Image 1

Intake Two Lake

Best Time

October mornings

Peak fall colors & fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene mountain lake in Bishop, CA, famed for its stunning fall foliage and excellent trout fishing.

4.7
(97 reviews)

"The neat yellow leaves on the lakeside are more beautiful and fantastic than flowers."

Vertical photo
TIP

๐ŸŽฏ Catch the Fall Colors

Visit in October for stunning yellow aspen leaves around the lake.

๐ŸŽฃ Prime Fishing Times

Try fishing at sunrise or sunset for rainbow trout, especially with wooly boogers or caddis.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.7 ยท 97 reviews

Type

Natural Feature

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Fall Foliage

Vibrant Fall Foliage

Lakeside

Golden aspen trees line the lake, creating a breathtaking spectacle of fall colors against the clear water.

Scenic Lakeside Walk

Scenic Lakeside Walk

Perimeter trail

A gentle 1-mile loop around the lake offers stunning views and photo opportunities.

Fishing Haven

Fishing Haven

Lake shores

Known for rainbow trout, this spot is a favorite for anglers seeking a peaceful fishing experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Fall Colors

Visit Intake Two Lake in October for peak fall foliage. The vibrant aspen trees create a stunning contrast with the clear lake waters. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene morning light.

Fishing & Accessibility Notes

Intake Two Lake is a popular fishing spot, especially for rainbow trout. While there are some accessible areas, Redditors note that the gate at the far end of the dam may limit wheelchair or scooter access to certain fishing spots.

Best Times

When
October mornings
Why
Peak fall colors & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Early morning/late evening
Why
Best for trout fishing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Intake Two Bishop, California Elevation 8,103 ft October 2023 I left home (solo) around 3 am to see if there was still some fall foliage out there. Bishop in California did not disappoint. Met up with a college friend at the gas station in Lee Vining. She has never been to this area. Iโ€™m glad I was able to show her my love for fall foliage and my favorite parts of California. #EasternSierra #...
exploring_with_five_kids
35 likes โ€ข 1.2K views

๐ŸŽฏ Catch the Fall Colors

Visit in October for stunning yellow aspen leaves around the lake. Instagram+1

๐ŸŽฃ Prime Fishing Times

Try fishing at sunrise or sunset for rainbow trout, especially with wooly boogers or caddis. Reddit

Located just 16 miles west of Bishop near the town of Aspendell, Intake Two is a small lake created by a dam along Bishop Creek. This beautiful lake has a gentle 1 mile hike that takes you around the perimeter of the waters edge along an old access road. Aspen trees and Eastern Sierra fall colors line the lake which features a wooden bridge, picnic tables and many popular fishing spots. For more...
flyingdawnmarie
126 likes โ€ข 2.7K views
๐Ÿ“Lake Intake Two, Bishop, Ca #hiking #california
katieterte
19 likes โ€ข 223 views

๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ Easy Lakeside Stroll

Enjoy a flat, 1-mile walk around the lake on an old access road. Instagram

โ˜• Don't Miss Local Treats

Grab a bite at Schat's Bakery in Bishop for delicious treats. Reddit

Started the season early #intaketwolake#lowerowensriver#mammothhotsprings#bishopvisit#upperowensriver#mammothmountain
_.angelita.g
19 likes โ€ข 513 views

Tips

from all over the internet

๐ŸŽฏ Catch the Fall Colors

Visit in October for stunning yellow aspen leaves around the lake. Instagram+1

๐ŸŽฃ Prime Fishing Times

Try fishing at sunrise or sunset for rainbow trout, especially with wooly boogers or caddis. Reddit

๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ Easy Lakeside Stroll

Enjoy a flat, 1-mile walk around the lake on an old access road. Instagram

โ˜• Don't Miss Local Treats

Grab a bite at Schat's Bakery in Bishop for delicious treats. Reddit

๐Ÿงฅ Dress in Layers

Temperatures drop quickly after sunset, so pack warm clothing. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(97 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Intake Two Lake for its stunning natural beauty, especially the vibrant fall foliage in October and its appeal as a peaceful fishing spot. The clear lake waters and scenic surroundings are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some minor accessibility concerns regarding gates have been noted, but overall, it's considered a must-see destination.

"๐Ÿ’งThe lake water is clear and clean.
๐Ÿ“ธ The neat yellow leaves on the lakeside are more beautiful and fantastic than flowers. ๐Ÿ
๐ŸŸ Great for fish fishing."

DJKwan Lee

"Awesome place to relax and fish. Whether or not you catch a fish is a different story. I didn't catch any.

The scenery is beautiful and so are the people.

Must see place up near Bishop California."

William Smith

"I enjoyed it and I'm thankful they provide a place for handicapped but I am disappointed that the gate does not allow for wheelchairs or mobility scooters to go around it to fish at a different spot in the res."

Jon Umpierre

What People Like

Beautiful fall colors
Clear lake water
Great fishing spot

What People Dislike

Gate access limitations

Frequently Asked Questions

๐Ÿš‡ ๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ Getting There

Intake Two Lake is located about 16 miles west of Bishop, California. From Los Angeles, you'll typically drive north on US-395. The lake is part of the Bishop Creek system, often visited alongside other lakes like Sabrina and South Lake. Instagram

Yes, Intake Two Lake is accessible by car. It's situated along Bishop Creek, and there's an old access road that circles the lake, making it easy to reach. Instagram

Intake Two Lake sits at an elevation of approximately 8,103 feet. Instagram

Absolutely! Intake Two Lake is one of several beautiful lakes in the Bishop Creek area, including Sabrina Lake, South Lake, and North Lake, which are popular for fall foliage viewing. Instagram+1

While specific parking details aren't widely shared, the presence of an old access road suggests that parking is available, especially for those accessing the lake for fishing or a stroll. Instagram

๐ŸŽซ ๐ŸŽซ Tickets & Entry

Typically, no specific entry permit is required for day use at Intake Two Lake itself. However, if you plan to fish, you will need a California fishing license. Reddit

Intake Two Lake is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours as it's an outdoor natural area. Instagram

There is no entrance fee to visit Intake Two Lake. It's a natural attraction, and access is free for visitors. Instagram

Yes, Intake Two Lake is a great spot for a picnic. There are picnic tables available, making it a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Instagram

While the water is clear and clean, swimming is generally not recommended due to the cold mountain temperatures. It's primarily known as a fishing and scenic spot. Reddit

๐ŸŽซ ๐Ÿž๏ธ Onsite Experience

Many visitors enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, taking in the views and capturing photos of the fall colors. It's also a popular spot for fishing. InstagramReddit

During peak fall foliage season (October), the lake can get busy, especially on weekends. Visiting on a weekday or early in the morning can help avoid crowds. Instagram

Intake Two Lake is known for its rainbow trout population, making it a popular destination for anglers. Reddit [^Review]

Information on specific restroom facilities is limited, but it's advisable to be prepared for limited amenities in more remote natural areas. Instagram

Yes, Intake Two Lake is a photographer's paradise, especially in the fall when the aspen trees turn vibrant yellow. The clear water and mountain backdrop offer stunning shots. Instagram+1

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Food & Dining

Intake Two Lake is a natural area, so there are no restaurants directly on-site. However, the nearby town of Bishop offers various dining options, including the highly recommended Schat's Bakery. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great idea. There are picnic tables available, and it's a beautiful setting to enjoy a meal. Instagram

Schat's Bakery in Bishop is a local favorite, known for its delicious baked goods and sandwiches. It's a must-visit if you're in the area. Reddit

๐Ÿ“ธ ๐Ÿ“ธ Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, especially during the fall. The golden hour can create magical shots of the foliage and water. Instagram

Focus on the vibrant yellow aspen leaves against the blue sky and clear lake water. The reflections in the lake and the surrounding mountain scenery are also excellent subjects. Instagram+1

Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check with local authorities or the Inyo National Forest for current drone usage policies before flying. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. Instagram

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Intake Two Lake (2026) โ€“ Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide