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Big Pine Creek South Fork
From Hwy. 395 in Big Pine, turn west on Crocker street. Drive 11 miles to the trailhead parking. Dayhikers can start from the end of the road ½ miles further.
The South Fork trail climbs up beneath the jagged peaks of the Middle Palisade Crest and gives access to the Middle Palisade Glacier. The trail above Willow Lake becomes indistinct with rock ducks marking the way to the upper lakes. An early start on this hike is a good idea to avoid overheating on the trail.
Starting from the hiker parking, follow the directions for Big Pine North Fork for about 1 ½ miles until you reach the old campground in the pine trees. Take the steep trail down to the old road, cross the bridge and walk down the road about ½ mile to a trail going up the South Fork canyon to the right. You can avoid the long stretch on the open trail in the beginning by walking from the hiker parking along the road to the dayhiker parking and follow the signs to the South Fork trail from there.
Wind up the canyon on a rocky, shadeless trail to reach a creek crossing at 2 ½ miles. This can be a tricky crossing, especially early in the season. The trail is level through a small meadow before the ascent kicks in. Climb steep switchbacks to reach the top of the ridgeline with 3 ½ miles behind you. A few more steps bring you to a breathtaking view of Mt. Sill and Middle Palisade Glacier.
A slight descent will bring you to a marshy meadow area in the pines, and the turn off to Willow Lake at 4 miles. Begin climbing again ½ mile later up a steep trail. At a small pothole lake, watch for rock ducks that keep you going in the right direction, the trail is indistinct. A brief descent before the final push uphill to reach the lake shore at 6 miles. A faint trail to the northwest side of the lake will take you to Finger Lake. Fishing is good for Golden Trout.
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