01
Best alpine lake warm-up
Lake Sabrina to Blue Lake Trail
Bishop Creek Canyon • High-Elevation Alpine Lake Hike • Scenic First-Day Acclimation Hike
A moderate climb from Lake Sabrina to a string of vivid blue tarns framed by serrated granite peaks.
From West Bishop, Highway 168 delivers you to Lake Sabrina in under half an hour, but the trailhead already sits near 9,000 feet, so the air feels thin from the first steps. The path gently winds past inlets and granite slabs before committing to a steeper push toward Blue Lake and its big amphitheater of rock. It’s a perfect half-day outing to get used to the altitude while still feeling like you’ve stepped deep into the high country.
02
Signature Sierra classic
Bishop Pass Trail from South Lake
South Lake Road • High-Pass And Lake Basin Trek • Best Big-Day Adventure
A classic High Sierra route that strings together turquoise lakes on the way to a lofty pass on the Sierra crest.
Starting at South Lake, this trail wastes no time getting into spectacular terrain, climbing past a chain of lakes like Long, Saddlerock, and Bishop. The switchbacks above the lakes feel relentless, but every turn opens up wider views of the cirque and jagged peaks beyond. Strong hikers can top out on Bishop Pass for a true high-alpine experience, while others can turn around at any of the mid-route lakes and still feel like they’ve scored a memorable day.
03
Most accessible high country
Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes
Rock Creek Canyon • Gentle Valley-And-Lake Stroll • Best For Mixed-Ability Groups
A mellow, well-graded trail that meanders past a chain of picture-perfect lakes with constant peak views.
Though it’s a short drive north from West Bishop, Little Lakes Valley feels like cheating: the trailhead is high, the grade is easy, and the scenery is straight from a calendar. The path to Gem Lakes threads through meadows and along shorelines, making it ideal for families, newer hikers, or anyone still acclimating. Stronger folks can wander up side use-trails or boulder-hop along the lakes while others linger at the water’s edge and soak up the skyline.
04
Steep climb, big payoff
Lamarck Lakes Trail
North Lake Road • Forest-To-Alpine Lake Ascent • Best For Seasoned Hikers
A sustained climb from shaded pine forest to stark granite basins and clear, cold lakes below Mount Lamarck.
From the North Lake area above West Bishop, the Lamarck Lakes Trail wastes no time gaining elevation, switchbacking through forest before breaking out into open country. The effort is rewarded with increasingly expansive views and a pair of high bowls that feel far removed from the road below. It’s a great choice for experienced hikers looking for something quieter and more rugged than the more famous Bishop Creek routes.
05
Best low-elevation shoulder-season option
Buttermilk Country Trails
Buttermilk Country • Granite Boulder And Viewpoint Rambles • Best Off-Season Sunset Wander
Undulating use-trails weave through massive boulders and open sage, with huge views back to the High Sierra wall.
Just west of town, the dirt roads of Buttermilk Country lead to an informal network of paths favored by locals, climbers, and photographers. Short out-and-back rambles and loops let you wander among house-sized boulders, explore granite slabs, and find your own overlook toward the Bishop Creek drainage and beyond. It’s ideal in spring and fall when the high passes are snowed in, or as an easy, golden-hour leg-stretcher after a bigger day in the mountains.