Finger Lake via Big Pine Creek South Fork Trail

The Finger Lake via Big Pine Creek South Fork Trail is a challenging, scenic route located in the Inyo National Forest and John Muir Wilderness. Starting from the trailhead near Glacier Lodge Road at approximately 7,810 feet, the trail provides access to rugged alpine basins at the base of the Palisade Crest. Overnight wilderness permits are required for backpackers and must be obtained from the U.S. Forest Service. The route begins with a brief climb, crossing a wooden bridge over a waterfall before branching south onto the South Fork Trail. It ascends through chaparral and pine forests along the South Fork of Big Pine Creek. Hikers negotiate a series of switchbacks climbing through alpine meadows, foxtail pines, and granite boulder fields. Above the switchbacks, the trail opens to dramatic views of the Palisade Crest and its surrounding 14,000-foot peaks. The main trail leads to the shores of Brainerd Lake. To reach Finger Lake, hikers must follow a faint path along the southwest shore of Brainerd Lake and scramble up a rocky moraine. This section involves a Class 2 scramble climbing roughly 450 vertical feet to the edge of Finger Lake, which sits below Norman Clyde Peak, Disappointment Peak, and Middle Palisade. Established campsites are located on the rock ledges along the south side of Finger Lake. Due to the high elevation, campfires are strictly prohibited in this area. Visitors should be prepared for heavy mosquito activity during summer afternoons and rapid weather changes, including afternoon thunderstorms.