Lone Pine Lake summer 2025 travel guide: Where to hike, where to camp, and what’s still closed
Plan the perfect trip to Lone Pine Lake in summer 2025 with this guide to hiking, camping, weather, and updated campground access in the Whitney Portal and Horseshoe Meadow areas.
Lone Pine Lake is one of the most rewarding summer destinations in California’s Eastern Sierra, offering pristine alpine views, accessible high-altitude trails, and peaceful fishing spots—all just outside the Mount Whitney permit zone.
Whether you're visiting for a day or staying overnight nearby, this guide breaks down the essentials you need to know for summer 2025, including trail conditions, campground updates, and nearby site closures.
Hiking to Lone Pine Lake
The hike to Lone Pine Lake begins at the Mount Whitney Trailhead, located at Whitney Portal approximately 13 miles west of the town of Lone Pine.
The trail is about 6.5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 1,900 feet. Most hikers complete it in three to five hours.
Highlights for summer 2025:
- No permit is required for day hikes to Lone Pine Lake.
- Overnight camping at the lake requires a Whitney Zone permit.
- The trail is typically snow-free from late June through September.
- Dogs are allowed on-leash.
- The hike offers a mix of forested shade, switchbacks, and sweeping views at elevation.
Learn more about current hiking conditions in the Inyo National Forest Lone Pine Region.
Weather and Trail Conditions (Summer 2025)
Temperatures at Lone Pine Lake’s 10,000-foot elevation typically range from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit during the day, with cooler mornings and breezy afternoons. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible in July and August, so check forecasts before heading out.
Whitney Portal Road is fully open for the summer, but parking fills quickly—especially on weekends. Cell service is not available in the Whitney Portal area, so download maps or bring printed directions in advance.
Open Campgrounds Near Lone Pine Lake (As of Summer 2025)
Several Forest Service-managed campgrounds near Lone Pine and Whitney Portal are open and available for overnight stays this season:
Lone Pine Campground
Located six miles west of town and seven miles from Whitney Portal. A quieter option for car campers with access to nearby hiking.
Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m. Make reservations here.
Whitney Portal Campground & Whitney Portal Group Campground
At Whitney Portal Campground, forty-three single campsites just minutes from the trailhead. Some are reservable in advance; others are first-come, first-served.
At Whitney Portal Group Campground, three walk-in tent sites designed for larger hiking groups. Each includes tables, fire grates, and shared restrooms.
Overnight Use Pricing: Group (Tent Only) Site: $95/night. Dogs must be leashed in all developed recreation sites. Make reservations here.
Whitney Portal Picnic Area
Shaded forested area with picnic tables, restrooms, grills, and a nearby fishing pond and waterfall. Located at the end of Whitney Portal Road.
No fees are required for this site. Dogs must be leashed in all developed recreation sites. Make reservations here.
Mt. Whitney Trailhead Campground
Walk-in sites located above the overflow parking lot. Includes bear-proof food lockers, flat tent pads, and restrooms nearby.
Overnight Use Pricing: Single Site: $24/night. Dogs must be leashed in all developed recreation sites.
No reservations. Self-register at campground sign in hiker parking lot.
Sites Closed for Summer 2025
According to the U.S. Forest Service, the following recreation sites in the Horseshoe Meadow area remained closed as of mid-May April 2025:
- Cottonwood Lakes Walk-In Campground
- Cottonwood Pass Walk-In Campground
- Horseshoe Meadow Equestrian Camp
- Horseshoe Meadow Picnic Area
Check for the latest updates on campground closures at Lone Pine Lake.
These are common staging areas for hikes into the Golden Trout Wilderness and other backcountry destinations. Their closures do not impact access to Lone Pine Lake or the Whitney Portal trail system.
Things to Do at Lone Pine Lake
Hiking
Lone Pine Lake is considered a moderate, non-technical hike—perfect for anyone looking for a high-alpine experience without needing special permits or equipment.
Fishing
While the lake hasn’t been restocked in 2025, anglers have reported catching brook trout and rainbow trout in its cool, clear waters.
Photography and Scenery
Surrounded by granite cliffs and alpine forest, Lone Pine Lake is especially photogenic at sunrise and during golden hour. Calm conditions often produce perfect reflections on the water.
Safety Tips for Summer Visitors
- Altitude awareness: The trail reaches elevations above 10,000 feet. Allow time to acclimate if arriving from lower altitudes.
- Bear safety: Store all food and scented items in bear lockers, even for day hikes.
- Navigation: There is no cell service past Lone Pine. Download maps or bring printed directions before entering the area.
Final Word
Lone Pine Lake remains a top destination for hikers and nature lovers exploring California’s Eastern Sierra in summer 2025. With clear trail conditions, no day-use permit requirement, and several open campgrounds nearby, it’s an ideal choice for a weekend hike or part of a longer Sierra road trip. Just be sure to check trailhead parking, follow bear safety practices, and plan around current campground closures when finalizing your trip.
