Located near Big Pine, California, Big Pine Second Lake is one of our favorite California hikes so far. We took the First and Second Lake via Big Pine Lakes Trail, which begins at the Big Pine Creek Trailhead. Second Lake is one of seven beautiful Big Pine Lakes .and is enormously popular. This is a 9.5 mile (5.9 km) out-and-back trail and involves 2,360 ft (719 meters) of elevation gain.

This trail is very popular for both day hiking and overnight backpacking. Please Note: Wilderness permits are required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. For more information on wilderness permits, please visit: https://www.recreation.gov/permits/233262

Be Advised: the road leading in is subject to seasonal road closures. Roads within and around Inyo National Forest are subject to seasonal closures during the winter months. For more information, please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/inyo/alerts-notices