Big Pine Creek South Fork Trail
The South Fork trail climbs beneath the Palisades Glacier and jagged peaks of the Middle Palisades to reach Brainard and Finger Lakes. The bridge across the South Fork was destroyed by avalanch during the spring of 2011 making this creek difficult to cross. Expect to get your feet wet and use caution with high spring runoff. The trail above Willow Lake becomes indistinct with rock cairns marking the way to the upper lakes. This trail is not recommended for stock.
Common Destinations: Brainerd Lake, Finger Lake, Norman Clyde Glacier
Download area map for trail names and locations.
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org
Specific Trail Information
Trail Type
General Information
- 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 12 people per day.
Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
- No campfires.
- Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear proof containers, or counter balanced.
- Groups cannot be larger than 15 people (includes day use).
- This permit does not include North Fork of Big Pine trail.
- Stock is not recommended beyond Willow Lake.
- John Muir Wilderness regulations.
- Sequoia and Kings Canyon wilderness regulations (South Fork Pass/Palisade Basin)
Getting There
Directions
From Big Pine, go west on Crocker Ave. which becomes Glacier Lodge Rd. and follow to the end of the road. Alternate trail start point at the pack station and large paved backpackers parking lot. Day use parking near Glacier Lodge, at end of the road.
