First Lake - Big Pine, California

Discover the Enchantment of First Lake in Big Pine, CA

Nestled in the serene beauty of Big Pine, CA 93513, First Lake offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located at 608732500, this picturesque park is not just a place to visit but an experience to cherish. The official website of the U.S. Forest Service, fs.usda.gov, provides valuable insights into the area's recreational offerings and natural beauty.

Key Features and Attractions

First Lake is renowned for its stunning park setting and is particularly special for those who enjoy hiking. It's kid-friendly, making it an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy the great outdoors together. The area is celebrated for its hiking trails, offering a variety of experiences from leisurely walks to more challenging treks. The lake itself is a gem, often touted as California's version of Patagonia, showcasing the state's breathtaking natural scenery.

For those who appreciate photography, the hiking trails around First Lake are a photographer's paradise, with landscapes that promise to be captured beautifully, as suggested by the numerous reviews praising the area's photographic opportunities. Moreover, a cozy touch awaits visitors with the promise of good hot tea made by friendly locals by the lake, adding a welcoming human element to the natural beauty.

What Visitors Are Saying

Opinions about First Lake are overwhelmingly positive, with an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 on Google My Business. Visitors often express their awe at the lake's beauty and the sense of adventure that comes with the short walk to it. Many highlight the quality of the hot tea, a small detail that makes a grand impression. The diverse range of reviews indicates a consistent experience that exceeds expectations, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a peaceful escape in nature.

Getting Started

For those eager to explore First Lake, it's recommended to start by checking the official U.S. Forest Service website for detailed information on trail conditions, park rules, and any necessary permits. Planning your visit around the best weather and avoiding peak times can enhance your experience. Given its popularity, contacting 608732500 ahead of time for any specific inquiries or to ensure availability of facilities can also be beneficial.

👍 Reviews of First Lake

Emrick W.

5/5

So, a friend of a friend told her this place is basically California's version of Patagonia. That's pretty much why I pushed myself to survive the 5-mile walk to the lake. And the lake... kinda didn't disappoint, especially after some time on Lightroom - at least in photos. Had an excellent hot tea made by my friend by the lake though.

James J. A. &. A.

5/5

One of California's not-so-secret gems, a beautiful bright-blue alpine lake. This entire area is absolutely stunning all year long, however the lakes are only accessible to average hikers June-Sept. The rest of the year the trail can get very snowy, dangerous, and prone to avalanches. Its about a 10 mile round trip to First Lake and back, gaining about 2400 feet of elevation along rocky switchbacks. There can also be a few stream crossings depending on recent weather, although most have bridges built by the park service. Permits are required for overnight camping. Please leave-no-trace!

Mario S. J.

5/5

The best hiking experience for my wife and I. It is a long way up and is not easy but it is worth it. Took us 4 hours with very minimal breaks. I wish they did have more signs for directions, but luckily we found plenty of people going up or coming down to help. We are from Texas but most definitely coming back. Went in May and got snow and on the way up maybe after 3 hours of climbing. Lots of ice and temperatures drop instantly once we were up there. Unbelievable experience!

Damon T.

5/5

Glacial fed aquamarine colored Lake is the first in a series of lakes on the big pine loop. There are a handful of camping spots on the north side of the lake. The main trail doesn’t got right to it so you’ll need to take a small spur trail to reach it.

Yulia G.

5/5

Beautiful area! Very challenging hike, but definitely worth it!

Alex

4/5

Wasn’t super light blue so I’m only giving 4 stars lol but it was beyond beautiful area! About 2hrs to get to first lake for us.

Tj J.

5/5

Another of the fantastic hikes in the Eastern Sierras. Can pack in for a multi-day trip or day hike to first, second and third lakes and back out.

Ryan I.

5/5

Surprised the lake looked very full! Guess all that rain from the recent storms really helped out. Weekday hike was more pleasant than weekend since there weren't as many folks on the trail. Solid weather and well maintained trail.