Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
2,266.00 ft (690.68 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
15.20 mi (24.46 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Ediza and Iceberg Lakes are two incredibly stunning high alpine lakes, backdropped against the jagged peaks of the Minarets. They make for a great long day hike, or a suitable overnight trip (although camping options are limited near the lakes). Note that a permit is required for overnight use.

You’ll begin this hike from the Shadow Creek Trailhead near Agnew Meadows Campground. Follow the PCT for a short distance then turn right onto the Shadow Creek Trail. Continue past Olaine Lake, and keep left at the junction to stay on the Shadow Creek Trail.

You’ll gain elevation then walk past Shadow Lake before joining the JMT for a short overlapping segment.

You’ll soon leave the JMT and head toward Ediza Lake. The trail follows beside beautiful Shadow Creek during this stretch. Note that no camping is allowed here.

Finally you’ll reach Ediza Lake and have a stunning view of the Minarets in the distance behind the lake. Note that camping is only allowed on the far side of the lake.

Continue on the trail, staying left at the next junction, then you’ll reach Iceberg Lake. This is another stunning high alpine lake with the Minarets looming large right behind the water. Truly an incredible view. There is limited camping here.

When satisfied, return the way you came. Note that there is also an option to continue onward to Cecile Lake via a rough user trail.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Beautiful high alpine lakes. Stunning views of the Minarets.

Cons

Limited camping options near the lakes.

Trailhead Elevation

8,310.00 ft (2,532.89 m)

Highest point

9,813.00 ft (2,991.00 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Fishing
Big vistas
Big Game Watching
Wildflowers
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California
Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.

You May Also Enjoy