White Pine Lake
A breathtaking alpine lake nestled in a valley, offering serene beauty and a rewarding moderate hike with dramatic cliffside views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fall colors, fewer people
White Pine Lake
Best Time
Fall colors, fewer people
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking alpine lake nestled in a valley, offering serene beauty and a rewarding moderate hike with dramatic cliffside views.
"This place is stunning and breathtaking. I only reach true peace here."
Check Trail Conditions
Always check Forest Service reports for snow & mud, especially for backpacking. :hiking_boot:
Embrace the Quiet
You might have the lake to yourself, especially in off-peak times. Enjoy the solitude! 👂
Quick Facts
Rating
4.9 · 36 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serene White Pine Lake
At the end of the trail
A peaceful alpine lake nestled in a valley, often with the entire place to yourself.
Breathtaking Wildflowers
Along the trail
Vibrant wildflowers bloom, especially in early July, adding stunning color to your hike.
Dramatic Cliffside Scenery
Surrounding the lake
The lake is framed by impressive cliffs, creating a dramatic and picturesque setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your White Pine Lake Adventure
Trail Conditions & Difficulty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
White Pine Lake
Thinking of hiking up to white pine lake tomorrow. Any idea of the current conditions up there safety wise or how heavy the snow is right now? Also can we still get up to the lower Tony grove lake by car at this point in the season??
Check Trail Conditions
Always check Forest Service reports for snow & mud, especially for backpacking. :hiking_boot:
Embrace the Quiet
You might have the lake to yourself, especially in off-peak times. Enjoy the solitude! 👂
White Pine Lake backpacking status?
Hey everyone, I was wondering if any of you had tried the white pine lake hike in Tony Grove recently? I was hoping to go backpacking there this weekend with a few friends who have never backpacked before. The ranger report says "Snow and mud to be expected." but I'm not sure if…
Hiked up to White Pine Lake. 10.5 miles and 2700' of elevation. But the color of the water was unreal. Might be one of my favorite hikes ever.
Can this be done as a backpacking trip? Like a one nighter?
Prepare for Steep Sections
The trail has a challenging steep stride about 3/4ths of the way up. 💪
Campgrounds Need Booking
Campgrounds are available but require prior booking. ⛺
White Pine Lake early August vs mid September temperatures?
I want to take my daughter to White Pine Lake for her first backpacking trip. What are the highs and low temps to expect there in early August and in mid-September? Trying to decide between those two times. Thanks
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Trail Conditions
Always check Forest Service reports for snow & mud, especially for backpacking. :hiking_boot:
Embrace the Quiet
You might have the lake to yourself, especially in off-peak times. Enjoy the solitude! 👂
Prepare for Steep Sections
The trail has a challenging steep stride about 3/4ths of the way up. 💪
Campgrounds Need Booking
Campgrounds are available but require prior booking. ⛺
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise White Pine Lake for its stunning, breathtaking beauty and peaceful atmosphere, often describing it as a place of true peace. The moderate trail, while having a challenging steep section, is appreciated for keeping crowds manageable. Some enjoy the dramatic cliffside views and the vibrant wildflowers. Occasional reports of hearing moose add to the wild allure.
"This place is stunning and breathtaking. There is a planty of campgrounds with prior bookings. Great spot for fishing too. We could see a lot of wildflowers on the way. But the peak was around July first week."
Ishara Dhananjaya
"Hiked this trail in late September so it was a little chilly with some wind. Total time was about 2 hrs-30min, but this is not the average since I hike weekly. Great colors around for the season and very few people on the trail itself. At one point, I had the whole lake to myself since I did not spot anyone else around. It felt quite eerie with only wind blowing and the leaves rustling about. Overall great moderate trail for anyone. It does have a long steep stride about 3/4ths the way to the Lake so that might be the most intense path of the hike."
Oscar Nila
"A very cool place lined on a couple sides with cliffs, and a small, peaceful lake tucked in the valley. A short hike or mountain bike ride gets you there. The trail in is just difficult enough to keep the riff-raff away. Nice."
E G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
White Pine Lake is accessible via a hike from the Tony Grove area. The trail is generally considered moderate, with a steep section towards the end. +1 The exact route and trailhead can be found on local hiking maps and apps. Ensure your vehicle can handle mountain roads if applicable.
Yes, the trail to White Pine Lake is also suitable for mountain biking. It offers a moderate challenge that can keep casual riders away, ensuring a more peaceful experience.
The drive to the Tony Grove trailhead, where the White Pine Lake hike begins, can involve mountain roads. It's advisable to check road conditions, especially outside of peak summer season, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific permits for day hiking are not always required, it's always best to check with the local Forest Service for any current regulations or fees, especially if you plan to camp.
There may be day-use fees or parking fees at the Tony Grove trailhead, depending on the season and specific regulations. It's recommended to have some cash on hand for these potential fees.
White Pine Lake is an outdoor natural area and is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, access to the trailhead might be restricted by road closures due to snow outside of the main season. Always check local conditions.
Yes, camping is possible at White Pine Lake, and campgrounds are available. However, these require prior booking. Be sure to check the Forest Service reports for current conditions, as snow and mud can be expected outside of peak summer.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to White Pine Lake is considered moderate. It features a significant steep section about three-quarters of the way to the lake, which can be the most intense part of the trail.
For an average hiker, the round trip to White Pine Lake can take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the lake.
While not guaranteed, some visitors have reported hearing moose at night. Keep an eye out for other local wildlife, but always maintain a safe distance and never feed animals.
Yes, White Pine Lake is noted as a great spot for fishing. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before you cast your line.
Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Sturdy hiking shoes are essential due to the trail's terrain, including the steep section. Be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself, framed by cliffs, offers stunning photographic potential. The wildflowers in early July
and the fall colors in September
provide excellent opportunities for landscape and nature photography. The solitude can also lead to unique shots.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This also coincides with fewer people, allowing for unobstructed shots of the serene lake.
Drone regulations can vary by location and park. It's crucial to check with the local Forest Service or land management agency for specific rules regarding drone usage in the White Pine Lake area before flying.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit