An alpine lake at 9,300 feet elevation, it can be done as an out-and-back hike but you end up missing much of the scenery surrounding it. To get our permit for backpacking to Ediza Lake, we went to the Mammoth Lakes Ranger Station around 7:30 am the day before our trip. A moderate-grade trail passes the San Joaquin River and Shadow Lake, following a substantial creek most of the way. You must fit in the Shadow Creek quota to go from Agnew Meadow to the Shadow Creek or Lake Ediza area. Shadow and Ediza Lakes Trail [CLOSED] - California | AllTrails Since we were already here, we decided to hike cross country to Iceberg Lake, which actually is an easy 2.5 mile hike on a maintained trail straight from Ediza Lake. Backpacking the Mammoth Area Just a few caveats. Whenever one of us would act tired, Callie was there to cheer us on. Permits are issued through Inyo National Forest and can be reserved online at www.recreation.gov. This x-country path from lake to lake corresponds to Roper's Sierra High Route. It is worth noting that all the wilderness permits for Ediza Lake require camping on the north-northwestern shore of the Lake, but a raging torrent of water from the inlet river prevented this. Iceberg Lake This short extension off the trail to Ediza Lake heads to a higher lake in a sublime setting below a ridge of steep spires called the Minarets. This trip can be either a day hike, or a multi-day adventurefest of camping, fishing, hiking, mountaineering and more, so pack accordingly. Located in California's beautiful eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Inyo National Forest offers challenging trails, high mountain peaks, and unparalleled views. For more information on current fees and shuttle schedules, be sure to check the National Park Service website. Once you start on the trail there are no water faucets … For … Backpacking Ediza Lake | Written by Brian Callender | Photography by Julie Boyd . The Thousand Island Loop Trail of course. Getting to the Agnew Meadows Trailhead. The farther you venture the better the camp spots and views. You'll go north on the JMT, eventually taking a right onto the PCT, returning back to Agnes Meadow. There are maintained trails through the area but no developed campground facilities. Located in the Mammoth Lakes region of the Eastern Sierra, the trailhead is nearly equal distance for those coming from either Northern or Southern California. After leaving Los Angeles and the subsequent valley, the drive up 395 parallels the Eastern Sierra as you make your way into Mammoth Lakes. 1. Permits are available on a first-come first-served basis, or through an online reservation system. Ediza Lake is one such gem. The Ansel Adams is located between Yosemite National Park and Mammoth Lakes. There is an endless supply of loops, out-and-backs, and point-to-point hikes that can be completed in the Ansel Adams Wilderness and Laura snagged us permits for the River Trail entrance. A wilderness permit is required year-round for backpacking or any other overnight stay in the Yosemite Wilderness. Your email address will not be published. With our packs full, we began to hike out the way we came in. Here the trail descends as you continue toward Shadow Lake. Julie and her sister Rachelle, who joined us on this hike, took this opportunity to cool off in the lake one last time. The permit system does keep the crowds somewhat in check but expect to see quite a few hikers. Permits. An alternative for reaching Mammoth Lakes from the Bay Area is to take the Sonora Pass. The good news is you’ve arrived at the lake, unfortunately you can’t camp anywhere in this first section so you have to continue walking around the lake before you can set up camp. Backpacking trip Ansel Adams Wilderness - Inyo National Forest. ' The SE Glacier route (first ascent by John Muir) follows the path of least resistance up the SE side of Mt Ritter.The route f... Backpack to Waugh Lake . We had good cell service at the Agnew Meadows Campground where we stayed the night prior. Having seen photos of Shadow Lake in the past, Julie and I both agreed that they didn’t do the lake justice. During the busy season there are trail quotas in place. The trail continues to climb steadily with limited shade, especially on a warm summer day, as you make your way along the creek until you reach mile 5.25 where you have a view back across to Shadow Lake. The trailhead quota season is from the last Friday in June through September 15th. However, the number of people you'll encounter on this hike is extremely low when you consider the setting, especially between Ediza Lake and Minaret Lake. We didn't find a lake over the large ridge like we thought we would, and after checking the map, we realized we should have followed the inlet rather than the outlet! I highly recommend doing a morning hike to Iceberg Lake from here (only two miles roundtrip) - the trail, the perfectly calm and clear lake, and the peaks above it are all worth the short hike. For visitor’s in 2020, be sure to check out our post on Yosemite and their reservation process. A wilderness permit is not required for day hikes (unless hiking to Half Dome) or for staying in lodging facilities and frontcountry campgrounds. Most people enter the wilderness from the east, starting in the Mammoth Lakes area (near Devils Postpile National Monument), or from the south near Lake Thomas Edison. No permits are required for day hikes, but are required for overnight trips through recreation.gov. Overnight permits can be reserved online through Recreation.gov, and the ones we reserved were for AA09 - High Trail. We were both pleasantly surprised at how nice Shadow Lake was as well, and even though camping is not allowed there, it’s a great place to take a break along the way to other lakes in the area. However, the number of people you'll encounter on this hike is extremely low when you consider the setting, especially between Ediza Lake and Minaret Lake. (These lakes and the nearby creeks are good places to try for brookies, rainbows, and brown trout—possibly even a golden trout, the California state fish.) Cara. It is a short hike without a ton of elevation gain, perfect for my dad’s old bones. We awoke to clear skies but the distinct smell of smoke. On our drive home through Yosemite that night, we were greeted by an eerie orange haze that felt like we were on another planet. Minaret Lake – Cecile – Iceberg – Ediza – Nydiver – basin with little lake to the west of Garnet Lake – west side of Thousand Island Lake: 10 out of 10. I am pretty out of shape and although I did get a good cardiovascular workout, I wouldn't say it was a hard hike … Unfortunately, Julie came down with a case of altitude sickness and our group decided the best course of action was to descend as she wasn’t feeling any better after a night of sleep. Quota for trailheads (reserved-walk-in): High Trail 20 (12-8), River Trail 30 (18-12). It is worth noting that all the wilderness permits for Ediza Lake require camping on the north-northwestern shore of the Lake, but a raging torrent of … Trip Report. Thanks so much Cara! Backpacking feels like a secret society of sorts; where only you and your fellow Bonesmen know what gems lie beyond the trail and just over the ridge. THE FOLLOWING IS THE CURRENT WEATHER FORECAST FOR THE MT RITTER / BANNER PEAK / ANSEL ADAMS WILDERNESS AREAS AT 10,591 FT. December: 18: Current regulations and no-camping zones are posted along the trail. We also spent some time filtering water for the evening and had the chance to try out our new system. Once in Mammoth, take Minaret Road which will lead to the Devil’s Postpile/Reds Meadow area. The junction for Shadow or Thousand Island Lakes comes at 2.4 miles into the hike and we veered left here towards Shadow Lake. A fee is required to enter the Devil’s Postpile/Reds Meadow area with some exceptions. We settled on a campsite at 8 miles, but found out later that better campsites are further down, nearly opposite of where you first reach the lake. Your email address will not be published. Date Hiked: September 4-5, 2020. Backpacking Ediza Lake | Written by Brian Callender | Photography by Julie Boyd ... An unexpected bonus prior to heading off the grid. Thankfully, the next section of trail is almost entirely flat as we crossed the creek twice before ascending one final time and arriving at the shore of Ediza Lake. The next morning, Julie and I headed along the west side of the lake for sunrise photos. If Agnew Meadows Road is closed, hike in from Starkweather Lake or Upper Soda Springs Campground. If you plan on backpacking this route and camping in the wilderness, you'll need a permit. Although she was disappointed, the lakes will always be here for us to come back to and they are best visited when feeling good! Permit: Yes, for overnight trips. Your email address will not be published. The water on the lakeshore was crystal clear and had hints of turquoise as the water got deeper. Several months ago, Chris secured a permit to one of the locations that had been on his bucket list for a long time: the Ritter Range, specifically Ediza, Garnet, and … Backpacking Ediza Lake | Written by Brian Callender | Photography by Julie Boyd, Distance: 15.6 miles, roundtrip (where you set up camp will vary your mileage slightly). I set out on River Trail from Agnew Meadows. Additionally, we brought our bear canister with us backpacking as bears are known to frequent the area and proper food storage is required. Having previously used a pump filter that was gifted to us several years back, we were excited to try out a gravity filter and it was honestly fantastic. Reserve day passes here or by calling 512-389-8900 before you visit. Camp overnight at Ediza Lake. Ediza Lake is a popular backpacking destination and one our favorite places we've been in the Sierra (John Muir too). The Ediza Lake – Thousand Island Lake Loop Track Day 1: Agnew Meadows to Ediza Lake. Start out by establishing camp at Ediza Lake prior to your ascent. Select Inyo National Forest Wilderness permits. Magnificent vistas abound on this moderately strenuous trek into the Ansel Adams Wilderness. You can see my other international hiking, eating, wellness, slow food guides here. I’d characterize it as perhaps the very best 3 day/2 night backpacking trip in the Sierras. There is no cell service at Ediza Lake. Magnificent vistas abound on this moderately strenuous trek into the Ansel Adams Wilderness. Permits for Backpacking Peeler Lake Loop. After capturing some sunrise shots and having breakfast we bid goodbye to Ediza Lake and started our hike down to John Muir Trail. Following the swim, we changed, ate dinner, and went to bed for an early sunrise. Restrooms: Pit toilets are available at the trailhead. Follow the links for access information and fishing tips on more than 150 lakes - or visit our clickable state map. This route allows you to bypass Yosemite and the entrance fees associated with traveling through the park. There is an endless supply of loops, out-and-backs, and point-to-point hikes that can be completed in the Ansel Adams Wilderness and Laura snagged us permits for the River Trail entrance. From mile six, the trail feels a bit like rollercoaster as you hike up a rocky exposed section before descending into a shaded forest and then once again back up. Food Storage: There are two bear boxes at the Agnew Meadows trailhead. Ediza Lake is a popular backpacking destination and one our favorite places we've been in the Sierra (John Muir too). Appreciate you following along! Aligned at the edge of Lake Mary Road, this path is open to walkers and hikers, dogs on leash, cyclists and equestrians. Consider an extension to Iceberg Lake. At 0.75 miles in, you’ll reach the boundary for the Ansel Adams Wilderness. You can get information on these restrictions at the Ranger Station when you pick up your permit, and there are maps posted along the trail showing the restricted areas. Ediza Lake in the Ansel Adams Wilderness is one of the prettest hikes I’ve done by Mammoth Lakes, California. Three days, two nights. Whether you should do it and how long it should take you depends on your x-country skills. The trail starts along the PCT from Agnew Meadows, and less than a mile in, the PCT breaks off and you will continue to the right past the junction towards Shadow Lake. An unexpected bonus prior to heading off the grid. Thousand Island Lake, California is located in Ansel Adams Wilderness right outside of Mammoth. Ritter and Banner Peak, we were required to acquire wilderness permits from the Inyo National Forest site. These are very popular trails -- make reservations well in advance at:recreation.gov. When we embarked on our overnight trip to this stunning spot overlooking Mt. An alpine lake at 9,300 feet elevation, it can be done as an out-and-back hike but you end up missing much of … We had to cram our one bag of scented items into one of the already full bear boxes before starting our hike. We then signed up on a form that basically held our place in line and indicated the group leader, group size and our desired trailhead. This area falls under Eastern Sierra regulations. Its lower segment opened in 2010, and as of late August 2011 was complete from Main Street and Minaret Road all the way to Horseshoe Lake. This page will provide information about weddings, commercial tours and guiding, educational groups, filming and other special and commercial uses. The first day was up the river trail, past Shadow Lake, to Lake Ediza. With California in the midst of record fire season, we knew it was a strong possibility that we might get some drifting smoke. Brian and Julie, our hikes are usually from car to kayak but I do appreciate checking out this Bound to Explore talented duo! Walk-in permits issued starting at … We are experienced backpackers (Glacier, Philmont). We started out by taking the PCT South/River/Shadow Lake trail which is just opposite the pit toilets and bear boxes. Required fields are marked *. Day Use: No permit required Overnight Use: Permit required year round. We stopped here for a bit to take our heavy backpacks off and have a snack. (These lakes and the nearby creeks are good places to try for brookies, rainbows, and brown trout—possibly even a golden trout, the California state fish.) Ritter Ediza Lake is only about 6 miles from Agnew Meadows, but as a weekend trip, it is hard to beat. There is no better scenery in the Sierra. Join me on a 3 day backpacking adventure in the Ansel Adams Wilderness. Some of these activities may require a fee, but not all of them. Elevation change: 1250 feet. On the way you would pass by Garnet Lake, Ruby Lake, and Emerald Lake each of which has stunning views. We decided to head out early in an effort to hike as much as we can before the sun tires us down. If you plan on backpacking this route and camping in the wilderness, you'll need a permit. The 10,591 ft level gives you a good idea of the weather conditions at camping spots such as Thousand Island Lake, Garnet Lake, and Ediza Lake. Know Before You Go: Backpacking to Ediza Lake Permit Process Information: Permits: Permits are required for all overnight use. Day hikers do not need permits and can easily do it from Agnew Meadows in a day. When to go: Late June to early October . After reaching Ediza Lake, you can either return via the way you came, or do the loop shown on this page. Hike Type: Overnight Difficulty Level: Difficult Food Storage: There are two bear boxes at the Agnew Meadows trailhead. Backpacking trip Ansel Adams Wilderness - Inyo National Forest. ' PERMITS. Walk around the south, then east shore of the lake to find camping spots. Ediza Lake to Thousand Island Lake. Take an upper section of Shadow Creek Trail up to Ediza Lake. During the summer peak season, a shuttle is required during the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. to alleviate congestion in the area. Camp near the west side of the lake (per national forest restrictions). Explore Inyo National Forest - Wilderness Permits in Inyo National Forest, California with Recreation.gov. The hike from Agnew Meadows to Lake Ediza is unquestionably one of California's most scenic backpacking trips. Hello! The plan was to head to Thousand Island Lake on the first night, Ediza Lake on the second, and Minaret Lake for the third and final night. At 3.5 miles, your climb is rewarded with a cascading waterfall flowing down from Shadow Lake. If you crave classic alpine scenery filled with jagged peaks, sparkling lakes, lush meadows, roaring creeks and wildflowers galore, this trip delivers big time. Here you will continue towards Ediza Lake, which is to the right. Texas Freshwater Lakes Alphabetical List. After a brief rest, we continued along the west side of Shadow Lake until we reached the junction for the John Muir Trail (JMT). This was her first backpacking trip with someone other than just me, and she relished in the opportunity to help herd the pack up the trail. Recreation.gov is your source for discovering and experiencing America's federal recreation activities and outdoor adventures. Happy Trails! Sometimes I feel the pictures tell the full story, and they do a better job than I ever could describing the grandeur and beauty of the Eastern Sierra backcountry. Feb 3, 2015 - Sometimes I wonder if these types of posts need any narration at all. You can reserve permits ahead of time online here, or try to get a last minute walk in permit as early as the day before at any of the ranger stations listed on their site here. Ediza Lake to JMT junction was the easiest part of the trail that day as it was mostly descending. Elevation change 1130ft. Once we reached 2 miles and just 70 feet of gain, we arrived at Olaine Lake which had a marshy feel to it, but nice morning reflections. The Wave itself is open so if you have a permit go. We made a plan to stop at Shadow Lake for a snack break. You will exit the park on the east side and continue south on Highway 395 towards Mammoth Lakes. Fifteen miles, a bit over twenty if I was feeling good and could make it to Ediza Lake. Campsites at Ediza are somewhat limited, with a no-camping zone near the outlet and around the left-hand side of the lake. Driving through the park does require paying an entrance fee, so it’s best if you already have a National Park Pass as we do. Day-use reservations encouraged. Ediza Lake was absolutely beautiful and we are so glad to have been able to spend a night enjoying it! Instead we hiked a couple of out and backs, camping at Ediza Lake and Rosalie Lake and day hiking to Iceberg. We decided to start at Agnew Meadows. Certainly a strange end to our one night backpacking trip. Overnight trips require a wilderness permit. Soft sand gives way to a rockier terrain, following along a single track with a steep drop off to the left. 7.3 miles and 1300 feet of elevation gain. But to camp overnight, you'll need to obtain a permit like most spots in the Eastern Sierra. If you’re looking for a great place to spend some time in the backcountry, we can’t recommend this area enough! A bridge crosses Shadow Creek at 2.6 miles before the trail begins to climb. When we finally arrived back at the car and could check our phones, we discovered that the Creek Fire had started, unbeknownst to us at the time, just the day prior and was moving rapidly. Backpacking Ediza, Iceberg, and Rosalie Lakes. Garnet Lake This beautiful lake along John Muir Trail is 8.55 miles from the trailhead at Agnew Meadows, making it an ideal lake to visit on a backpacking loop. ... Ediza Lake and Mt. Shadow Lake and Lake Ediza are extremely popular backpacking destinations, and camping restrictions apply. Delta Lake Hike | Grand Teton National Park Hiking, Backpacking Ediza Lake | Ansel Adams Wilderness, Alice Lake Hike | Sawtooth Wilderness Backpacking, Backpacking the 20 Lakes Basin | Eastern Sierra. October 19, 2020: Most parks are open for day use. Hike down into a canyon to Olaine Lake and then take Shadow Creek Trail up to Shadow Lake and John Muir Trail. There are special restrictions in the area between Shadow Lake and Ediza Lake, designed to reduce impact in these highly used areas. For most of the year, this trip requires a permit to stay overnight. Ediza Lake is one such gem. The one-lane is narrow and winds down to the junction for Agnew Meadows off to the right. The Lakes Basin Path is a paved, multiple-use path connecting commercial Mammoth Lakes with the Mammoth Lakes Basin. About four other parties at the Lake when we arrived, all of them camped along the eastern side of the Lake. Permits can be found at recreation.gov. Map Distance: 6.5-sh the first day from trailhead to Ediza Lake camp spot. In another 0.2 miles and 700 total feet of gain you’ll reach Shadow Lake. The Lakes Basin Path is a paved, multiple-use path connecting commercial Mammoth Lakes with the Mammoth Lakes Basin. The helpful wilderness permit issuers in Mammoth said we would need crampons to complete the loop, and needless to say none of us packed our crampons. From Ediza you can day hike to Iceberg Lake, or climb 13,000ft mountains. Check out more images for this hike on Instagram via #sarahwilsonhikes and in the Sierra Nevada stories highlights. After reaching Ediza Lake, you can either return via the way you came, or do the loop shown on this page. The trailhead is very popular and was packed when we arrived. I was definitely feeling the altitude at this point, getting a small headache and some nauseousness. What you need to know for Ediza Lake. June 1, 2015 “Gorgeous hike. Permits: Required for overnight trips. There is no cell service at Ediza Lake. The plan was very beginner appropriate. Arriving from Southern California, the route traveling north on Highway 395 is an incredibly scenic drive. Initially, we had planned on backpacking for three nights and venturing over to a few of the other popular lakes in the area. We passed a junction at mile 7.5 that heads off to the left to Iceberg Lake. The Sonora Pass adds 40 miles and approximately 30-60 minutes to your drive as the road is windy and north of Yosemite. If you’re unable to get a permit for the High Trail, there are alternative trailheads you can plan around like Shadow Creek and the River Trail. We are Brian and Julie, a Bay Area couple making travel work with full-time jobs. Permits are issued through Inyo National Forest and can be reserved online at www.recreation.gov. Cash or checks cannot be accepted. This hike visits this alpine jewel, passing beautiful Shadow Lake and a series of pretty waterfalls on Shadow Creek along the way. Hiking The Thousand Island Lake Loop With Ediza Lake (Ansel Adams Wilderness, CA) Map & Trail Overview Depending on who you ask, the Thousand Island Loop Trail actually goes by several names like, “The Ediza Lake Trail”, “The Ansel Adams Trail”, “Banner Peak Loop”, but they are all … If you do not have a permit and are considering bagging The Wave illegally keep in mind that BLM law enforcement personnel are still on duty and will be patrolling the permit area. Red Tape: Overnight camping requires a permit from Inyo NF. Without question we plan to return to this area again as two big lakes, Thousand Island and Garnet are on our bucket list. Hiking The Thousand Island Lake Loop With Ediza Lake (Ansel Adams Wilderness, CA) Map & Trail Overview. Distance: 15.6 miles, roundtrip (where you set up camp will vary your mileage slightly) Elevation Gain: 1,870 ft. The John Muir Trail (and Pacific Crest Trail) passes through this wilderness, and it can be reached from both sides of the Sierra crest. Thanks for including me- vicariously -on your artfully detailed adventures ! The plan was to head to Thousand Island Lake on the first night, Ediza Lake on the second, and Minaret Lake for the third and final night. At the Shadow Creek Trail, take the 1.6-mile detour west to a campsite by Ediza Lake. There are activities within the monument that require a special permit. During our time there, they were some of the worst smelling toilets in recent memory. Starting Elevation: 8,100 ft. Some trails have quotas, so you might want to have an alternate plan. Over 7.3 miles with 1,250 feet of elevation changeSet out on River Trail from Agnew Meadows. Most people enter the wilderness from the east, starting in the Mammoth Lakes area (near Devils Postpile National Monument), or from the south near Lake Thomas Edison. The jagged spires of the Minarets and two 14ers, Mount Ritter and Banner Peak, form the dramatic backdrop for Ediza Lake, one of the most stunning lakes in the Ritter Range. Wilderness Permit Rules and Regulations Wilderness Backcountry. Coming from the Bay Area, the easiest way to reach the trailhead is to drive through Yosemite along the Tioga Pass. You'll find the trailhead on the west side of Ediza Lake (look for the Iceberg Lake sign). Ediza Lake is only about 6 miles from Agnew Meadows, but as a weekend trip, it is hard to beat. Julie was able to capture a nice bit of alpenglow lighting up the Minarets and then we headed back to pack up camp. Consequently this was the first time I learned that this trailhead requires you to enter through the Devils Postpile entrance station & pay… Even though I have still never seen Devils Postpile (sounds too ominous for my tastes?). The average fine for hiking to The Wave without a permit exceeds $1,000. Quota of 30 people permitted to start overnight trips each day from May 1 to November 1 for the Shadow Creek trail. Pick one up at the Forest Service station in Mammoth BEFORE you go. Aligned at the edge of Lake Mary Road, this path is open to walkers and hikers, dogs on leash, cyclists and equestrians. You'll go north on the JMT, eventually taking a right onto the PCT, returning back to Agnes Meadow. Answer 1 of 16: We are a family of 5 from Minnesota planning our first visit to Yosemite (parents, 3 teenage boys). Lakes Basin Path. Rated 4.0 /5 based on 1 customer reviews ... Mt Ritter is a long climb, but it is worth the effort. The views going up are great since a fire a few years back cleared out some of the trees, and the lake at the top is a classic small mountain lake.” Tim, Washington, DC. Preparation for your Thousand Island Lake Trip. The John Muir Trail (and Pacific Crest Trail) passes through this wilderness, and it can be reached from both sides of the Sierra crest. No permits are required for dayhikes. For certain trails in the Hoover Wilderness, overnight permits are limited by a trailhead quota. Wilderness permits can be obtained from the Inyo National Forest for trips originating out of … Wilderness permits are required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Permits are required. Fees must be paid electronically through pay.gov. The hike from Agnew Meadows to Lake Ediza is unquestionably one of California's most scenic backpacking trips. Backpacking feels like a secret society of sorts; where only you and your fellow Bonesmen know what gems lie beyond the trail and just over the ridge. 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