Mileage: up to 18 miles.
Elevation: up to approx 12,000’
Gain: up to approx 4,000’
They say: Strenuous
We say: Depending on how far you go…
What it is: A hike to the prettiest lakes on earth (that I’ve seen, at least). This trail carries you past 7 (or 9, if you take a couple detours) glacier lakes in the palisade region. Winding below the longest spine of 13–14,000-foot peaks in the lower 48 states, the views from the hike are legendary. The trail begins at the trailhead off of Glacier Lodge road, in Big Pine. From there, hike a steady grade up along the north fork of the creek until you reach First Falls. Here you can replenish liquids and continue on through a forest of birch trees, winding your way up a gentle grade (and past Lon Chaney’s cabin) until you reach some steep switchbacks heading to First Lake. Follow the loop-ish route from here to all 7 lakes, with detours to Black Lake and Summit Lake if you desire. Each lake is a shocking teal color due to the particles coming down from the Palisade Glacier above. Each lake is home to varieties of golden, rainbow and brown trout. Fish, bask on the rocks or take an icy bone-aching dip in one of the lakes. Go as far as you like, then turn back and return the way you came.
Please DO: Fish in your undies.
Please DON’T: Start this hike later in the day. The first couple miles have zero tree cover, making for a hot start to a long day.
What you need to bring: lug sole hiking shoes, water, snacks, and a camera.
What you want to bring: a big group of loved ones.
How to get there: Park in the trailhead parking area off Glacier Lodge Road. Head straight through the parking lot to the interpretive sign. Trail starts here!
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