Backpacking Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes
This trail is called the gem of the Sierra’s for good reason, the breathtaking views! What makes backpacking the Little Lakes Valley Trail to Gem Lakes so special, besides the scenery, is that the trailhead sits above 10,000 ft.
Most often, if you want to explore the alpine lakes of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, you’ll need to hoof it up to 10,000 ft—here, you park at above 10,000 feet so most of the hard work is done for you by your vehicle.
Trail Details
Mileage:
It’s about 8 miles round trip. There are a few lakes to explore so don’t stop at the first one.
Elevation Gain:
1218 ft in elevation gain. While this doesn’t seem like a lot over 4 or so miles, the high elevation makes things a lot more difficult than you would think.
Approximate time:
It could take anywhere from 3-5 hours to get to the lakes.
Difficulty
This is a moderate hike, bit again, the altitude plays a role and things get a little more difficult with less oxygen to go around.
Permits:
Permits are required. It’s best to plan 6 months in advance and the go to Recreation.gov right at midnight and try for a permit. Here is the link, you can search for it under Inyo National Forest. This is one of the most coveted trails in the Sierra’s so permits go fast.
Trailhead:
Park at the Mosquito Flat Parking lot which is located about 20 miles from Bishop at the top of Rock Creek Road.
Pro Tips:
- Make sure you don’t leave any food or scented items in your vehicle while hiking, store it in the bear lockers by the trailhead. Bears will rip your car apart to get a snack.
- Go slow and stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness. Learn some tips on preventing altitude sickness.
- Leave No Trace-pack out everything you brought in including trash, apple cores and banana peels, tissues, water bottle caps and granola bar wrappers.
- There are plenty of lakes to filter water from so bring a filter. If you are only going on a day hike, make sure you bring a lunch or snack.
- Pack your rain gear even if the weather says it will be clear afternoon thunderstorms are common in this area.
What to expect when backpacking the Little Lakes Valley Trail to Gem Lakes.
The best time to backpack the Little Lakes Valley Trail to Gem Lakes is during the summer. Keep in mind there can be snow even in July being at 10,945ft. Also, you might want to bring your warmies even if it’s summer.
The trailhead is located at the top of Rock Creek Road. This trail takes you past stunning alpine lakes with jaw dropping scenery. The first lake is about a quarter mile in.
The Gem Lakes get their name from its brilliant colors that sparkle in the sunlight. The lakes are perfect for fishing… and swimming if you don’t mind the cold.
There are quite a few campsites tucked in around the lakes. I’d recommend a tent or tarp and not a hammock since there aren’t many good trees for hanging a hammock.
Enjoy the trail
If you land a permit for a backpacking trip on the Little Lakes Valley Trail to Gem Lakes, you’ll be the envy of many backpackers. The scenery alone is incredible.
While this popular trail may seem crowded during the day, things start to change as the day wanes on. The excitement turns to quiet solitude as you watch the reflection of the alpenglow on the lake.
After sharing bites of each other’s freeze dried meals you can relax with some scotch out of a platypus and watch the Milky Way get brighter and brighter. See you on the trail.
