Birch Lake Trail

Infrequently traveled, Birch Lake trail is steep, rugged and un-maintained. At times it is difficult to locate. Be prepared to navigate with the aid of a topographic map. There is minimal water or shade along Birch Lake Trail. So, a pre-dawn start is recommended during the summer. The alpine lake at the end of the trail and various nearby peaks are popular with mountaineers. The dirt road to this trailhead is rocky and challenging even for high clearance 4 wheel drive vehicles.

Common Destinations: Birch Lake

Download area map for trail names

Birch Lake Trail Recreation Guide (pdf)

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Weather
Reservations:	Reserve up to 6 months in advance at www.Recreation.gov
Permit Info:	Wilderness permits are required year round for overnight trips Day use does not require a permit. May 1 through November 1 quota limits visitors to 8 people per day.
Restrictions:	No campfires above 10,400 ft. Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear-proof containers or counter balanced. J ohn Muir Wilderness regulations Kings Canyon National Park regulations
Closest Towns:	Big Pine, CA (gas, food, lodging) Bishop, CA (full service, hospital)
Water:	Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
Restroom:	Please Leave No Trace. Bury human waste away from water sources.
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	White Mountain Visitor Center (760) 873-2500 Wilderness Permit Information (760) 873-2483 Maps USDA Forest Service: A Guide to the John Muir Wilderness and Sequoia-Kings Canyon Wilderness USGS Quad: Split Mountain and Fish Springs National Geographic: Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Tom Harrison: Kings Canyon High Country; Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

General Information

Directions:

From Big Pine, go west on Crocker Ave. which becomes Glacier Lodge Rd. Turn left onto McMurry Meadows dirt road (4x4 wd recommended for this dirt road if you are going beyond McMurry Meadows). Trail starts from road 9S03A.

From US Highway 395 in Big Pine, CA:

Turn west on to Crocker St. (Glacier Lodge Rd.)
In 2.5 miles turn left onto McMurry Meadows Road.
Follow the road for 5.9 miles, turn right on 33E306. From here 4WD is recommended.
In .6 miles, turn left onto 33E306A, at the sign for Birch Lake.
A gate marks the trailhead. The trail begins by following the old road beyond the gate.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Fish for Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout in the secluded Birch Lake area.

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Permit required?:	Y

A map of our nations national forests and grasslands.

Birch Lake Trail

At a Glance

General Information

Recreation Map

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Day Hiking

Backpacking

Quick Links

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Related Links