John Guilford's Hikes

Pinnacle Lake on 2014-09-20

Date: 2014-09-20

Location: Pinnacle Lake

People: (including myself): Pam

			  	Alt.	Miles
Trailhead:		2:00	2660	0
Bear Lake:		2:12	2776	0.3
Ridge:			2:45	~3600
Pinnacle Lake:		3:30	3790	1.9
Leave Lake:		4:00
Top of Ridge:		4:30
Bear Lake:		5:00	2776	3.5
Trailhead:		5:10	2660	3.8

The access to the trailhead was pretty rough in spots. We were glad we had the pickup rather than our normal car. To get to the trailhead, take FS 4020, the first right after the Lake 22 trailhead 4.7 miles past the Verlot ranger station. Follow FS4020 for 2.7 and take a right turn uphill onto FS4031. When we got to that intersection, it wasn't labeled. Fortunately for us, we spotted a handwritten sign saying "Bear Lake" indicating the turn. If it hadn't been for that sign, we would have missed it. In 2.2 more miles, turn right onto FS4021 (this turn was labeled), and about 0.7 miles further find the trailhead.

The trail to Bear Lake is short and easy. After Bear Lake, the trail starts grinding out elevation climbing to the ridge on the south side of Bear Lake. There are occasional views down onto Bear Lake from the ridge.

After the while, the trail levels out somewhat. The ridge top flattens out a bit, the trail passes some small ponds, and you descend down Pinnacle Lake. This time, the trail down to the lake was essentially a small stream. It was tricky at times to find dry footing.

Pictures:

Bear Lake.

Bear Lake viewed from ridge line.

Pinnacle Lake.

Some people at the far end of Pinnacle Lake.

Please send comments or corrections to john_guilford@keysight.com
Last updated on: Mon Jun 8 16:50:16 PDT 2015