Bishop Ca, August 2, 2021 – Hikers and Backpackers rejoice today on the Eastern Sierra. Inyo National Forest announced that the Pine Creek trail is re-opening after being closed down on July 21 from damage caused by heavy rains.
Update July 22: The damaged trail area was surveyed by trail crews and is passable for cautious hikers. The damaged area is approximately 2 miles up the trail at 8700 feet in elevation. Drenching rains from earlier this week were funneled down a rock couloir and the resulting rock slide deposited around 6-9 feet of rock/boulders/debris. The slide effects 3 different spots across the Brownstone Mine Road switchbacks. July 21, 2021: Pine Creek Pass Trail has been damaged by recent heavy rainfall and there are three major washouts that have been reported as impassable to stock users. The Forest Service will be evaluating the trail for hiker safety and needed repairs.
Pine Creek Trail has reopened to hikers and to stock. Many thanks to the Inyo National Forest trail crew employees and to the Student Conservation Association (SCA) crew for their very hard work to complete this work. Additionally, thanks to the Pine Creek Pack Station who helped out by packing in tools and equipment. What an excellent partnership!
Repairs are underway on the Gable Lakes Trail, but the trail is passable for hikers who should use caution. This trail had 13 separate washout sections in the first 1.75 miles of trail. This is a primitive use, non-stock trail and the crews will continue to work on this trail in the upcoming weeks.
Wilderness permits are required for overnight trips into the John Muir Wilderness. Permits to start on this trail are issued at Inyo National Forest visitor centers. Quota of 15 people permitted to start overnight trips each day from May 1 to November 1.
Several trails start from the deep canyon cut by Pine Creek between Mount Tom and the Wheeler Crest. The Pine Creek Pass trail gives access to the Pine Lakes, along Pine Creek, and destinations beyond Pine Creek Pass. French Canyon and Humphreys Basin areas are popular destinations for visitors that go over Pine Creek Pass.
Common Destinations: Pine Lake, Upper Pine Lake, Pine Creek Pass, French Canyon
Check the area map for the correct trail. A different permit is required for trips going in the direction of Italy Pass, Gable Lakes or Morgan Pass.
Directions:
From Bishop go north on Hwy 395 (approximately 12 miles), and go west on Pine Creek Canyon Rd. to the end of the road. Park in the dirt lot at the end of the road near the Pine Creek Pack Station. The trailhead is through the pack station at the base of the hill.
