Tucked into the Eastern Sierra just south of Bishop, the Big Pine Lakes Trail follows the North Fork of Big Pine Creek into a high alpine world of glacier-fed lakes and jagged granite peaks. This iconic trail, accessed from Glacier Lodge Road near the town of Big Pine, leads hikers and their pups through aspen groves, lodgepole pine forest, and along cascading creek crossings. The trail climbs steadily toward a chain of vividly turquoise lakes—colored by glacial silt from the Palisade Glacier—making it one of the most unforgettable hikes in Inyo County. Lake 1 is about five miles in and offers a picture-perfect spot to rest and refuel, with views that rival any national park.
Dogs are welcome on the Big Pine Lakes Trail, but it’s best suited for well-conditioned pups and people. The trail gains over 2,000 feet in elevation by the time you reach the first lake, and it can get hot in summer, so pack water for you and your dog and start early. Leashes are required in Inyo National Forest, and it’s especially important to keep dogs close near drop-offs and creek crossings. While camping is popular, many day hikers make it out and back to the lower lakes in a single, rewarding trek. Fall brings cooler temps and golden aspen—another great time for a dog-friendly visit.
Big Pine itself is a quiet, friendly town with a couple of places to grab snacks and supplies before or after your hike. From Bishop or Lone Pine, it’s an easy addition to a Highway 395 road trip, offering a big payoff without the big crowds. For dog lovers looking to stretch their legs and explore California’s high country, the Big Pine Lakes Trail is one of the region’s crown jewels—steep, stunning, and absolutely worth the climb.
