Backpacking Rush Creek Trail to Thousand Island Lake, Garnet Lake, and Ediza Lake
An Unforgettable 3-Day Journey Through the Ansel Adams Wilderness
Overview
This summer, I embarked on a three-day, two-night backpacking trip through one of the most jaw-dropping sections of the Eastern Sierra Nevada: the Rush Creek Trail into the Ansel Adams Wilderness. While most hikers follow the classic AllTrails loop—Silver Lake to Thousand Island Lake to Garnet Lake and back through the Clark Lakes—we decided to freestyle our route a bit. The goal? See more of the Sierra in the little time we had. What followed was one of the most beautiful and rewarding adventures I’ve ever had.
This was our first time backpacking in the Ansel Adams Wilderness. The online photos were stunning—but trust me, they don't do it justice. Nothing compares to standing before Banner Peak as the sun rises over Thousand Island Lake or relaxing lakeside beneath the Minarets at Ediza. If you're considering this trip, here's exactly how it went down.
Day 1: Silver Lake to Thousand Island Lake (~8 miles | 3,500 ft gain)
We hit the Rush Creek Trailhead around 8:30 a.m. after a 6-hour drive from San Diego, coffee in hand and packs full. And wow—this trail wastes no time. The first four miles are relentless, gaining nearly 3,000 feet of elevation as you climb past Silver Lake, Agnew Lake, and Gem Lake. The views are epic, but so is the burn in your legs. It took us around 4 hours to conquer this stretch.
After some flatter (but still rolling) terrain and a total of ~8 miles and 3,500 feet of gain, we arrived at Thousand Island Lake. It was, simply put, one of the most breathtaking alpine lakes I’ve ever seen. The water was glassy and crystal clear, framed by jagged granite peaks—most notably Mount Ritter (13,143 ft) and Banner Peak (12,936 ft), which tower above the lake like guardians.
We pitched our tent on the north shore of the lake to catch a warm sunrise the next morning, made dinner with a view, and called it a night. It was magical.
Day 2: Thousand Island Lake → Ediza Lake → Garnet Lake (~13 miles total)
We woke up at 7 a.m. to surprisingly warm weather, had a quick granola breakfast, and hit the trail. Our plan was originally to head to Garnet Lake next, but after chatting with a couple of seasoned hikers and reading up on Lake Ediza, we decided to take a detour. And it was 100% worth it.
Using the AllTrails GPS route, we peeled off the classic loop and set our sights on Ediza Lake—a detour that would add ~8 miles instead of the 3-mile trek to Garnet. On the way, we passed Emerald Lake and Ruby Lake, both small, pristine alpine lakes with water so clear you just want to cannonball right in.
We passed Garnet Lake en route to Ediza and were again struck by the scenery. Banner and Ritter rise over Garnet as well, making it another Sierra showstopper. My phone quickly filled with photos that all looked the same—but somehow each one was worth it.
After a few more miles, we reached Lake Ediza by about 1 p.m. Nestled beneath the Minarets, this spot feels like Patagonia or the Italian Dolomites—yet it’s right here in California. We spent 5 blissful hours swimming, lounging, playing cards, eating, and soaking it all in. I even brought a sudoku book for some peaceful downtime.
But just as we finished setting up our tent, a huge black cloud rolled in and let loose a short but strong downpour. Not wanting to risk a soggy night, we packed up and backtracked 5 miles to Garnet Lake for the night. We arrived just in time to catch golden hour, spotted a couple marmots, and enjoyed another peaceful night under the stars.
Day 3: Garnet Lake → Silver Lake (~8.5 miles | 1,500 ft ascent | 4,000 ft descent)
Our final day came way too soon. We set out from Garnet Lake, passed through Clark Lakes (great spot for a snack or rest break), and made the long descent back to Silver Lake. The route back was roughly 8.5 miles with a net loss of around 4,000 feet of elevation—but not without some uphill climbs to remind us we were still in the Sierras.
Despite our tired legs, spirits were high as we reflected on all we’d seen. The solitude, the granite cathedrals, the lakes—it’s hard to overstate how special this place is.
Permits & Important Information
Wilderness Permits:
If you're planning to overnight in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, you'll need to secure a wilderness permit through Recreation.gov. Search for Rush Creek Trailhead (Inyo National Forest). Permits are quota-based and go fast during the summer season—reserve early!
Bear Canister:
Required. You must store all food and scented items in a bear-proof canister. Rangers patrol these areas frequently and will ticket if you’re not in compliance.
Campfires:
No fires are allowed above 10,000 feet. Most of this route is well above that elevation, so bring a backpacking stove.
Water:
There are plenty of water sources along the route—lakes, creeks, and streams. Bring a filter or purification tablets.
Navigation:
Download offline maps from AllTrails or Gaia. Cell service is almost nonexistent. A paper map and compass is a great backup.
Bugs & Weather:
Mosquitoes can be intense in early summer—bring DEET and/or a head net. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially in July and August, so plan your hiking accordingly and be off exposed ridgelines by early afternoon.
Altitude:
You’ll be camping above 10,000 feet. Know the signs of altitude sickness and give yourself time to acclimate.
Final Thoughts
This trip changed my perspective on what California’s backcountry has to offer. From the granite giants of Ritter and Banner to the wildflower-lined meadows and mirror-still lakes, the Ansel Adams Wilderness is unlike anywhere I’ve been. Our “off-script” route added challenge and magic to the journey—and I wouldn’t change a thing.
If you’re considering this adventure, don’t hesitate. Lace up your boots, pack smart, and get out there. The mountains are calling.
—Underpine Outdoors