Big Pine Lake,CA

“We are going on a 5 day packing trip the end of September to Big Pine Lake in California. Haven't been there before and really know nothing about the area. We are from Minnesota and are going with some friends who pack there several times a year???”

“There is a campground at the trailhead where the old lodge used to be (burned down years ago). The little store has supplies, a great local root beer and showers.

The trail is a steady climb for seven miles, going past Lon Chaney's old cabin (silent film star). Just when you are sick of climbing, you come across this great waterfall at a saddle. This is the beginning of First Lake.

Once you crest the saddle you are rewarded with one of the most amazing views. Temple Crag, a large dark rock structure, majestically overlooks these wonderful alpine lakes.

I pulled up this link from Snow Nymph's photo page:

http://community.webshots.com/photo/92287145/92545011TtZOZs

The fishing here is great. At dawn or dusk numerous boils on the surface will signify the presence of native golden trout.

Mosquitoes are thick, so bring deet.

There are seven lakes to hike to and explore. Just off trail at Second Lake there is a small shelf, right were the trail bends to the right. This shelf has an amazing view and is the perfect campsite for a few tents.

Enjoy. Big Pine is so close to heaven that you feel like you can almost touch it.”

“Where in the heck was my question. Sorry...long night on call at the clinic. The trip sounds great. As I said, I wasn't sure what to expect and what you wrote was exactly what I was hoping. Thanks a bunch for realizing...somewhere in there was a question :)”

“If it's a warm day, get an early start because there isn't much shade on first part of the trail. Next time I go back to that area, I'm going to camp in Sam Mack Meadow - it's beautiful there. Don't forget to check out the Palisade Glacier too.”

“Sounds like another place to add to my wish list.”