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Birch Lake

Backpacking2 days10.8 mi (round-trip)
Upcoming
Advance release
today, 3 PM
Trips starting May 14, 2026
Best time
Book now

Itinerary

Birch Lake Trailhead
5.4 mi • 4,400 ft gain
Birch Lake
5.4 mi • 100 ft gain
Birch Lake Trailhead
Driving directions

How to get a permit

This trip requires a Inyo National Forest Wilderness Permit. Reservations depend on your start date:

Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct

Trips starting between May 1 and November 1

Permits required. Quota in effect.

Online reservations

Closes day of Passed
Book
2 releases
6 months ahead at 7 AM PT Passed
2 weeks ahead at 7 AM PDT Passed

Permit details

Here is how to fill out the Inyo National Forest Wilderness Permit application:

Permit TypeOvernight
Entry PointBirch Lake
Exit PointBirch Lake
1st night Camp AreaBirch Lake (Birch Lake trail near Big Pine)

Select a start date

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