Central Coast Outdoors Enthusiasts

We will be hiking the Big Pine Lakes Trail loop for a day hike. We will be camping at Upper Sage Flats campground.

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/big-pine-lakes-trail?p=-1&sh=tpxsz0&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

https://maps.app.goo.gl/QUEiqbH8wE6SDw787?g_st=ic

Participation in this activity is voluntary. By participating, you acknowledge that you assume all risks involved. The organizers are not responsible for any injuries, accidents, loss, or damages that may occur.

Cars can be parked at the trailhead and there only tent camping available at these sites.

Entry: Rancheria Falls
Exit: Beehive Meadows
Night 1: Rancheria Falls
Night 2: Lake Vernon

Here’s what your trip will look like.

Day 1 – Friday, October 16

Hetch Hetchy Trailhead → Rancheria Falls

Distance: ~13.0 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,100–2,300 ft
Elevation Loss: ~1,200 ft

Highlights:

Cross O’Shaughnessy Dam
Tueeulala Falls
Wapama Falls
Hetch Hetchy Reservoir shoreline
Rancheria Creek
Camp at Rancheria Falls

This is your longest mileage day, but it’s also the easiest grade. The first half is mostly gentle, making it a great day to settle into the hike.

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Day 2 – Saturday, October 17

Rancheria Falls → Lake Vernon

Distance: ~7.5–8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,200–2,500 ft
Elevation Loss: ~700 ft

Highlights:

Climb away from Rancheria Creek
Forested trail
Granite benches
Lake Vernon
Sunset on the lake

This is the hardest day because most of the climbing happens here. Fortunately, it’s also your shortest mileage day, so you can take your time and enjoy Lake Vernon in the afternoon.

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Day 3 – Sunday, October 18

Lake Vernon → Beehive Meadows → Hetch Hetchy Trailhead

Distance: ~7.5–8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~900–1,100 ft
Elevation Loss: ~2,800–3,000 ft

Highlights:

Morning at Lake Vernon
Tiltill Valley
Beehive Meadows
Return to O’Shaughnessy Dam

https://maps.app.goo.gl/pARVhrHibH5DdDGJ7?g_st=ic

If you want to carpool from Paso let me know.