Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes

The Eastern Sierra’s most rewarding high-alpine lake progression. Starting at 10,230 feet, this trail strings together five stunning glacial lakes beneath serrated granite ridges.

Trail Overview

The trailhead starts at 10,230 feet. If you drove up from the valley that morning, you will feel it. Give yourself 20 minutes at the car before moving. The lot fills completely by 8am on summer weekends. Weekdays are a completely different experience. Afternoon thunderstorms build fast in summer — start early and be below treeline by 1pm.

This Hike Is For You If…

Hikers comfortable with sustained altitude above 10,000 feet. Strong intermediate hikers will find this moderate. Beginners who have done a few day hikes at sea level should acclimate for a day first.

Skip This Hike If…

Skip if you arrived from sea level the same day. Skip if afternoon thunderstorms are in the forecast and you cannot start before 7am.

What to Expect on Trail

Terrain: Well-maintained packed dirt and granite slabs. No technical sections. Some boulder hopping near upper lakes.

Shade: Mostly Exposed

Water: Reliable Year-Round. Rock Creek alongside trail. Filter recommended.

Views: Outstanding

Crowds: Summer weekends extremely crowded. Weekday mornings manageable.

Dogs: Yes, dogs are welcome on this trail.

Best Arrival: Before 7:30am on weekends. Weekdays you have more flexibility.

This is a Tier 1 sourced review. Trail information is based on published sources and research. Andrew has not personally hiked this trail yet. Photos and firsthand sensory detail will be added when upgraded to Tier 2.