Silver Lake to Cecile Lake

This 30-mile out-and-back begins at Silver Lake on the June Lake Loop and climbs deep into the heart of the Ansel Adams Wilderness, finishing at the dramatic shores of Cecile Lake, a stark alpine lake tucked beneath the jagged Minarets. Along the way, hikers experience a classic Sierra journey with glacial valleys, forested canyons, high passes, and numerous alpine lakes.

This route is best suited for experienced backpackers who want a multi-day trip with the chance to explore some of the most striking alpine scenery in the Eastern Sierra.

Starting from the Silver Lake Trailhead, follow the Rush Creek Trail, which climbs steeply alongside cascading waterfalls. Next, take the Spooky Meadow Trail eventually reaching the junction with the John Muir Trail (JMT)/Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) near Thousand Island Lake, a perfect spot for a rest or an overnight camp, with Banner Peak rising above.

From here, continue south on the JMT, traversing meadows, creeks, and more alpine lakes, including Garnet Lake and Shadow Lake, both framed by iconic Sierra peaks.

At the junction near Shadow Lake, leave the JMT and head toward Ediza Lake, a stunning basin surrounded by jagged granite walls. From Ediza, take the climber’s trail that ascends steeply to Cecile Lake. The final approach is rugged and often snow-covered well into summer, but the reward is a stark, glacial cirque directly beneath the Minarets.

Retrace your steps to return to Silver Lake.

Highlights

• Thousand Island Lake: One of the most photographed lakes in the Sierra, backed by Banner Peak.

• Garnet & Ediza Lakes: Classic alpine lakes with pristine views of the Ritter Range.

• Cecile Lake: A high, stark, and dramatic cirque lake beneath the spires of the Minarets.

Flora & Fauna

The trail passes through aspen groves, mixed conifer forests, and subalpine meadows, bursting with wildflowers in midsummer. Higher up, whitebark pine and hardy alpine plants dominate rocky slopes. Wildlife sightings may include marmots, pika, mule deer, and black bears. Birdlife is plentiful, with Clark’s nutcrackers, Steller’s jays, and raptors common.

Safety & Considerations

• Water: Ample water sources from creeks and lakes along the route; always filter or treat.

• Weather: Afternoon thunderstorms and sudden temperature drops are common at high elevation.

• Snow: Cecile Lake is often snowbound well into July, ice axe and traction may be needed early season.

• Bears: Bear canisters are required for overnight travel in the Ansel Adams Wilderness.

Permits & Access

• Wilderness Permits: Required for overnight trips and highly recommended to reserve in advance at Recreation.gov.

Trailhead Access: The Silver Lake Trailhead is located off Hwy 158 (June Lake Loop), with parking near Silver Lake Resort.