Near Grizzly Lake from China Spring
Grizzly Falls
Near Grizzly Lake from China Spring
Grizzly Lake in the Trinity Alps.
Near Grizzly Lake from China Spring
Grizzly Lake with Thompson Peak on the horizon.
Near Grizzly Lake from China Spring
Crossing the outlet of Grizzly Lake, 20 feet from a 200-foot cliff
Near Grizzly Lake from China Spring
Grizzly Lake with Thompson Peak on the horizon.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Grizzly Lake from China Spring

5.0 (10 Ratings)
Hike to the stunning Grizzly Lake and Grizzly Falls deep within the Trinity Alps.
15
mi
Distance
5,676
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
LakeViewsWaterfallWildflowers
Access Issues
Free wilderness permits and campfire permits are required to enter the Trinity Alps Wilderness.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
14.98mi
Distance
5,676ft
Elevation Gain
5,676ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
7,134ft
High Point
4,659ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
From the trailhead, take the China Spring Trail and pass the boundary for the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Climb to Hunters Camp at the top of a ridge covered in burnt trees left by a recent fire. From Hunters Camp drop into Grizzly Creek Canyon. There, you'll find a junction the North Fork Trail. Turn left to head east up Grizzly Creek.Continue on this level section of trail for about two miles, paralleling Grizzly Creek through old-growth forest. The trail begins to climb again and emerges onto open rock and then passes by a tall waterfall on Grizzly Creek. Keep climbing past numerous waterfalls. At length you'll see Grizzly Falls and Thompson Peak, the highest in the Trinity Alps, ahead. The trail levels off again and traverses Grizzly Meadows beginning at around 5.5 miles. There are several good campsites here. After the meadows, climb steep switchbacks next to the falls. The climb takes you to a rocky bench with fantastic views of Grizzly Meadows.From the bench, climb again, up a talus slope with cairns marking the way. At the top, you'll be rewarded with Grizzly Lake.Return the way you came.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
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Contributors
Maria Espino