Pine Creek Pass Trail

Several trails start from the deep canyon cut by Pine Creek between Mount Tom and the Wheeler Crest. The Pine Creek Pass trail seperates from the Italy Pass trail at Honeymoon Lake. Beyond Pine Creek Pass, the main trail decends French Canyon to the John Muir Trail. Side trails go to Elba and Moon Lakes.

Common Destinations: Upper and Lower Pine Lakes, Pine Creek Pass, French Canyon, Royce Lakes, Merriam Lake.

Check the area map for the correct trail. A diffrent permit is required for trips going in the direction of Italy Pass or Gable Lakes.
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Weather
Reservations:	Reserve up to 6 months in advance at www.Recreation.gov
Rentals & Guides:	Pine Creek Pack Station is located at the trailhead, offering mule pack trips (760) 387-2797
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 or 15 people per day.
Busiest Season:	July-August
Restrictions:	No campfires above the wilderness boundary in Pine Creek Canyon; No campfires all locations above 10,000 ft. Maps of Campfire Restrictions. 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). John Muir Wilderness regulations.
Closest Towns:	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

General Information

Directions:

From Bishop go north on Hwy 395 (approximately 12 miles), and go west on Pine Creek Canyon Road. Drive to the end of the road and park in the dirt lot near Pine Creek Pack Station. Walk through the pack station, the trail begins along the creek.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Brook, Rainbow and Golden Trout are found in Pine lake 1, Pine Lake 2 and Honeymoon Lake Brook and Rainbow Trout are common, Birchim Lake has Cutthroat Trout.