Thousand Island Lake

Overview

The Sierra Nevada hosts some of California’s most jaw-dropping scenery and as you can imagine, its Ansel Adams Wilderness is no slouch in the good looks department. In an area absolutely crawling with gargantuan snow-draped peaks and stunning sunlit watering holes, where iconic views and epic vistas are a dime a dozen, perhaps none are as universally revered as sparkling Thousand Island Lake capped by massive Banner Peak. While you can make your way to this alpine paradise via the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and John Muir Trail (JMT), we suggest you also consider this shady jaunt along the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River. Begin your trip at Agnew Meadows, the first stop on the seasonal shuttle from the Mammoth Mountain ski area (or the first right turn as you head down the winding road past the fee station at Minaret Summit). If you’re arriving via shuttle, take a quick stroll down Agnew Meadows Road, passing a pack station, then the parking area for the High Trail trailhead (aka the northbound PCT), and finally arrive at a second area complete with parking, vault toilets, garbage receptacles, and informational signage – this is where the magic begins! After securing any smellables in the trailhead’s communal bearproof storage lockers, look for a brown wooden sign headlined “Pacific Crest Trail.” Although the signage indicates that Thousand Island Lake is to your left, you actually want to head right towards the Shadow Lake Trail and River Trail – I promise you’ll actually end up at the lake, and since you’ll avoid the high, sunny slopes above, it’ll be a much less sweaty affair. Heading southwest, you’ll take the trail to your right and will almost immediately cross a small stream via a short log bridge. After a few minutes, Agnew Meadows quickly presents itself on your right; this expansive area glows bright green in wetter months and offers the possibility of seeing mule deer in action – have a quick scan to see if you spot any of these meadow regulars frolicking around. In just under a mile you’

Trail Stats

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