Big Creek, California
Big Creek, California offers some of the best trails and outdoor activities. One must-visit is the Big Creek Trail, a scenic route that takes you through a dense forest of pine and redwood trees. The trail is moderately challenging, making it perfect for those seeking a bit of an outdoor adventure. Along the way, you'll pass by the stunning Big Creek Bridge, a historic landmark that provides panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The trail also features a variety of natural attractions, including the roaring Big Creek Falls and the tranquil Big Creek Lake. Whether you're into hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Big Creek is a top destination for all.
Top Spots in and near Big Creek
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Mammoth Lakes, California
Photograph the Fall Colors of McGee Creek
5.03 mi / 500 ft gainMcGee Creek is one of my favorite spots in the Eastern Sierra to photography the fall color. Most people avoid the area because the best views require you to hike and explore but the rewards are worth it. Right close to the parking lot is McGee Creek which is a beautiful creek to photograph offer...Read more -
Bishop, California
Baboon Lakes via Sabrina Basin
8.53 mi / 2165 ft gainGorgeous and sizable alpine lakes beyond Blue Lake via Sabrina Basin trail. There are some very confusing descriptions on the internet for this so hopefully this can help. Hike for 3 miles to get to Blue Lake, which is huge and a popular camping spot for backpackers. Continue past the lake (it ...Read more -
Bishop, California
Hike to Emerald Lakes
7.2 mi / 1719 ft gainIf you are considering this hike, then I am sure you are already familiar with the undeniable beauty that the Eastern Sierra radiates. Any season, any time- it is there. One of my particular favorites for a day hike to experience this beauty is the trek to Emerald Lake outside of Bishop.From Bish...Read more -
Mono County, California
Fishing at Convict Lake
4.3Many people come to Convict lake for the fishing. Convict is located only 2 miles off the main highway in the Eastern Sierras. The lake is clear and pristine with beautiful views. There are various ways to fish here; some rent out boats or bring their own and cruise around the lake fishing. O...Read more -
Mono County, California
Summit Mount Baldwin (12,614')
15 mi / 5000 ft gainDirections The hike for Mount Baldwin starts at the Convict Lake trailhead. The turn off for Convict lake is about 4.5 miles south of the Mammoth Lakes exit along the 395 and roughly 35 miles North of Bishop, CA. Take this exit and follow the road West towards the mountains. Turn right at the ...Read more -
Madera County, California
Thousand Island Lake via Agnew Meadows
5.019.6 mi / 3642 ft gainStart from Agnew Meadows about 7 miles away. You can take the High Trail out as part of the River Trail with a long detour passing by several other scenic lakes, including Shadow Lake, Garnet Lake, and Ruby Lake. You will arrive at Thousand Island Lake a few hours after lunch, just in time to set...Read more -
Madera County, California
Ediza Lake via Agnew Meadows
4.013.54 mi / 1804 ft gainStart at the Agnew Meadows Trailhead. You will need to arrive before 7:30AM or take the Shuttle from Mammoth Mountain. Start out by heading north on the John Muir Trail. You will pass Shadow Lake; walk around the south side of the lake for mountain views. Then, follow the trail up Shadow Creek u...Read more -
Madera County, California
Ansel Adams' Garnet Lake
5.014.46 mi / 2717 ft gainGarnet Lake is one of the premier stops along the Pacific Crest Trail. However, even if you don't have time for an entire thru-hike (like most of us), this beautiful lake is still easily accessible as an overnight trip! While there are many possible routes for reaching Garnet Lake, the Agnew Me...Read more -
Madera County, California
Cecile Lake via Agnew Meadows
16.11 mi / 2667 ft gainLocated in the heart of the Ansel Adams Wilderness, Cecile Lake can be reached from a variety of trailheads. I chose to start out in Agnew Meadows. From here, the trail criss-crosses through a serene lowland environment with several crystal clear streams. After passing Olaine Lake, veer left an...Read more -
Madera County, California
Climb Mount Ritter
Mt Ritter is a long climb, but it is worth the effort. Start out by establishing camp at Ediza Lake prior to your ascent. The SE Glacier route (first ascent by John Muir) follows the path of least resistance up the SE side of Mt Ritter.The route first gains a broad bench below Ritter and Banner P...Read more -
Madera County, California
Backpack to Waugh Lake
5.011 mi / 1000 ft gainThere are several trailheads you can start at to get to the lake, but we chose the River Trail in Agnew Meadows because it was the only trailhead that hadn't met the quota yet. You can check on permit's and trailheads here. If the River Trail is booked other great options are Shadow Creek, Fish C...Read more -
Madera County, California
Backpack the Shadows of the Minarets Loop
5.016 miAnsel Adams Wilderness is located in Mammoth Lakes, California. The trail to Lake Ediza is frequently traveled and is usually completed as an out-and-back day hike. In the summer, from 7am-7pm the road to the trail head is inaccessible to cars. To reach the trailhead you must take the shuttle fro...Read more -
Mammoth Lakes, California
Convict Lake
4.92.46 mi / 56 ft gainIn 1871, a group of inmates escaped from a prison and were ambushed near the lake by a posse who had tracked them down. The inmates escaped the shoot out after killing two of the men in the posse and the lake now had a name – Convict Lake. You won’t witness a wild west shootout here, but if you ...Read more -
Madera County, California
John Muir Trail: Camping at Lake Ediza Junction
NOTE: there are some camping closures in this area. Read here for more details. The Lake Ediza Junction has several great spots to camp. Try to find a spot that will have long afternoon sun as some spots will fall under the shadow of the ridge to the west. There are some sunny campsites along the...Read more -
Bishop, California
Photography in the ButterMilks
5.0The Eastern Sierras have some of the most spectacular views in the world. This area in particular is known for its rock climbing. It also has amazing opportunities for photographers.The nights during a new moon are incredibly dark and create great astro photography shots. During the day, the l...Read more -
Bishop, California
Bouldering In The Buttermilks
5.0The Buttermilks is a historical climbing area that is home to some of the worlds most famous rock climbs. It is located at the base of the Eastern Sierras near Bishop, CA. In this region there are 3 main bouldering areas: The Happies, The Sads, and The Buttermilks.The Buttermilks are massive gr...Read more
