Big Pine 7 Lakes Guided Backpacking Trek

Into the Big Pine Basin: Seven Lakes Beneath the Sierra Crest!

Often considered one of the most scenic backpacking routes in the Eastern Sierra Nevada, the Big Pine 7 Lakes trek leads you deep into a high-alpine basin filled with hidden turquoise lakes and towering granite peaks. The trail climbs steadily into the wilderness, revealing one lake after another, each tucked beneath dramatic ridgelines and sheer rock walls. It’s a place that feels wild and tucked away, where the views seem to get better with every step.

This trip can be done two ways, depending on how you want to experience the area. The 2-day option is a more demanding push, covering ground quickly and taking you straight into the heart of the basin. The 3-day basecamp option slows things down, allowing us to set up camp near the first lakes and spend the second day exploring the remaining lakes and the Glacier Trail with light daypacks. This approach gives you time to wander, take photos, and really settle into the landscape without carrying a full pack all day.

Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure or a more relaxed alpine exploration, Big Pine 7 Lakes delivers big scenery, quiet camps, and some of the most memorable views in the Eastern Sierra.

Difficulty Rating & Description (1–5)

This trek follows well-maintained trails and covers a moderate to challenging daily distance of approximately 5 miles per day. The overall difficulty depends on whether the trip is done as a 2-day trek or a more relaxed 3-day basecamp-style hike.

• 2-day option: This version is more strenuous, with longer days and sustained elevation gain, and is considered a Level 3 (Moderate) trek.
• 3-day option: This version is more relaxed and is considered a Level 2–3 trek, allowing more time to explore the area with lighter packs.

Terrain & Trail Conditions

• Mostly on established, well-maintained trails.
• Steady elevation gain throughout the approach.
• Day 2 (3-day option) includes: Hiking to surrounding lakes and along the Glacier Trail. Travel done with lighter daypacks for easier exploration.

Pack Weight & Hiking Style

• Backpack weight will be approximately 25–35 lbs (11–16 kg) per person.
• The 3-day itinerary is designed as a basecamp-style trek, with camp set near one of the first lakes and a full day of exploring with light packs.

Trip Length & Elevation

• Duration: 2–3 days
• Total Distance: ~15 miles (24 km)

Elevation Gain/Loss

• 2-day option: ±3,500 ft (1,067 m)
• 3-day option: ±4,000+ ft (1,220+ m)

Duration of Adventure

• 2 to 3 Day Options
• The start time will be around 8:00 am on the first day.

Location / Where to Meet

• Check in/ Departure Address: Big Pine Town

Ages & Requirements

• This trek is designed for experienced backpackers. Please review the Difficulty Rating & Description section above for a full breakdown of terrain, mileage, and elevation.
• Prior backpacking experience is recommended.
• Participants should be capable of carrying an overnight pack for up to 5 miles (8 km) per day with 1,000–2,000 ft (305–610 m) of elevation gain, and be prepared to do so for multiple consecutive days. 
• Good physical condition is required to safely and fully enjoy this trip.

What’s Included

• Professional Local Mountain Guide certified as Wilderness First Responder, Food Handling & Leave No Trace Principles with years of professional and personal wilderness experience and a passion for leading others.
• Top-of-the-line tent, backcountry sleeping pad and multi-day backpack, headlamps, utensils and poles.
• High quality, synthetic sleeping bag (Laundered after every use- $15 cleaning fee) – or bring your own!
• Breakfast, lunch, and 4-course dinner prepared by your guide while in the field.
• Wilderness and National park backcountry camping permits.
• Bear canisters for food storage.
• Water Filtration systems- all water filtered by your guide!
• Emergency equipment including an extensive first-aid kit and satellite communication device (InReach Explorer).
• For Yosemite National Park Treks: Mandatory 5% national park fee that passes through directly to Yosemite.
• A discount of 10% off any TrekSierra trip after your first!

Not Included

• Gratuity - Never expected, but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your guides!
• Transportation to your starting point at June Lake Town.
• Small cleaning fee for the use of the sleeping bag.

What to Bring / Wear

• Sturdy Hiking Shoes - Broken in/Used before with closed toes and grippy tread! No open toe sandals or shoes allowed!
• Hiking Socks & Gaiters - Comfortable socks to prevent blisters and small shoe gaiters are helpful to keep rocks and sand from getting into the shoe and causing blisters or cuts!
• Layered Clothing - Make sure the clothing is moisture-wicking, lightweight, and fast drying! You may be sweating a lot in the high altitude sun! Also, the weather can change rapidly so having a few easy to remove and add layers always helps (lightweight pants, fleece jackets, insulated vests, lightweight gloves, beanie, and long-sleeve top). No jeans please!
• Sun / Rain Protection - Rimmed hat, sunglasses, neck covering (may attach to hat), and UV deflecting long sleeve shirts can all help to combat the harmful and strong sun rays. A poncho or rain jacket along with a rain cover for your bag is important to consider as weather can change quickly in the mountains!
• Required Paperwork & ID Cards- Signed medical form if required, waivers, license, etc.
• Restroom & Personal Medication Essentials - Extra toilet paper and hand sanitizer is a good idea! If you need certain medications along the hike, please be sure to have them with you.
• Cameras & Binoculars - Catch amazing pictures of the scenery and binoculars to spot wildlife from far away!
• Reusable Water Bottle (62oz+ / 1.8 L) or Camelback Bladder, Water, & Snacks
• Lightweight Gloves & Beanies
• External Battery Packs - Make sure to pack fully charged battery packs if you’d like to make sure your cameras or phones remain charged!

Listen to Our Podcast with Elizabeth from Trek Sierra Here!