This Underrated Trail In Northern California Leads To A Hidden Turquoise Lake
Spring is quickly approaching, and there’s no better way to celebrate than getting out and going for a nice, long hike. If you’re looking for the perfect hike to kick off the new season, you’ll definitely want to make the journey to Big Pine Lakes. This hiking trail is by far one of the most picturesque adventures you’ll ever take. You’ll be in awe at the hidden lake that awaits you at the end of this trail! Check it out.
Big Pine Lakes on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada is a little known paradise hiding deep in the wilderness. This is sure to become one of your favorite hikes for the amazing treasure that is waiting for you at the end of the trail.
You'll find the area approximately 11 miles west of the town of Big Pine. You'll find the trailhead near Glacier Lodge Road. The trail is pretty long, so be sure to pack up on all the essentials.
The loop trail is approximately 13 miles in total, but it's definitely worth it. The trail is rated as moderate so it's definitely do-able by non-hiking experts.
As you set out on the trail, you'll come across numerous switchbacks. However, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. There's nothing like the feeling of immersing yourself in California's beautiful wilderness areas.
A majority of the trail is not shaded, but a portion of it does split off into a shaded area.
The trail begins to follow a small creek. A couple of small bridges are placed throughout the area to help you cross the water. Be sure to bring a water filter so you can drink straight from the rushing creek.
After approximately three miles, you'll arrive at Lon Chaney's cabin. This historic cabin is an enchanting sight amid the wilderness.
Lon Chaney was a stage and film actor who built this cabin. The cabin is absolutely beautiful. Unfortunately, you can't go inside but it's still an awesome place to explore for awhile. This is the perfect spot to stop for a quick break before completing the hike.
As you depart from the cabin, the trail begins to climb in elevation while leading you through shaded and unshaded areas.
The trail actually leads you to three beautiful alpine lakes. The first two are a beautiful shade of turquoise that is absolutely mesmerizing. The third lake is much different from the other two. It is usually very shallow and doesn't have the same color. Most hikers simply visit the first two lakes, but you can visit them all if you'd like.
You'll first come across the aptly named First Lake. Here you'll get your first real glimpse of the brilliant shade of blue water.
The trail leads you across a hillside that is above First Lake. You'll come across various overlooks that are perfect for snapping a few pictures of this perfectly turquoise lake. The color of the water is so bright that it doesn't even seem real!
After First Lake, you'll end up at Second Lake. This is the favorite lake for many people and it's easy to see why.
The sight of the enormous Temple Crag in the background of the vibrant lake is absolutely stunning. It's impossible not to stop and stare in awe of this beautiful scene. You'll find all kinds of spots around this lake to set up camp or take a break before heading back.
This has got to be one of the most beautiful scenes in all of California. There's nothing like soaking up the gorgeous view of the lake in sweet solitude.
You'll wish you could stay here forever. This would be the perfect place for a weekend camping trip. Just be sure to obtain a permit for any overnight stay through recreation.gov.
What’s your favorite hidden lake hiking trail in Northern California? Looking for more hikes to put on your bucket list? Take a look at this list of the 5 Best Hikes In Northern California.
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