Overview

The Sabrina Basin is home to some of the most jaw-dropping alpine lakes in the Bishop backcountry—and Hungry Packer, Sailor, and Moonlight Lakes are the crown jewels. Starting from the Lake Sabrina Trailhead, this route leads hikers past Blue and Dingleberry Lakes before breaking into a granite basin where towering peaks, waterfalls, and crystal-clear alpine lakes deliver the ultimate Sierra backdrop.

Trail Beta

Trailhead	Lake Sabrina
Route	Sabrina Basin Trail > Blue Lake > Dingleberry Lake > Hungry Packer/Sailor/Moonlight Lakes
Mileage	12 miles round trip
Elevation Start	9,150 ft
Elevation Gain	2,200 ft
High Point	11,200 ft
Type	Out-and-back
Difficulty	Moderate to strenuous
Water	Available from lakes/streams (treat before drinking)
Permit	Overnight
Pets	Yes (dogs allowed on-leash)
Land Manager	Inyo National Forest (https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/inyo)

 

Trail Description

The hike begins at the Lake Sabrina parking area (9,150 ft) and follows the Sabrina Basin Trail, climbing steadily through lodgepole pines with early views of the reservoir. About 3 miles in, you’ll reach Blue Lake—a perfect rest stop framed by granite walls and wildflowers in summer. From there, the trail continues past Dingleberry Lake before branching toward the basin that holds Hungry Packer, Sailor, and Moonlight Lakes.

•Hungry Packer Lake sits dramatically beneath Picture Peak, making it a favorite for photographers and backpackers.
•Sailor Lake offers a quieter, more open setting—great for camping or fishing.
•Moonlight Lake is tucked deeper in the basin, with a wilder, more remote feel for those willing to tack on a bit more mileage.

Expect creek crossings, granite slabs, and sweeping views the entire way.

Best Season to Hike

Late June through October, depending on snowpack. Early summer often means snowfields and high water crossings; late season is drier, cooler, and offers the best chance for solitude.

Flora & Fauna

Wildflowers light up the meadows around Blue and Dingleberry Lakes in mid-summer. Pikas and marmots thrive among the boulders, and anglers may spot golden trout in the high lakes.

Geology

The Sabrina Basin showcases textbook Sierra glacial geology. U-shaped valleys, polished granite, and cirque basins tell the story of ice carving its way through the range thousands of years ago

History

The Nuumu have stewarded this basin for millennia. In the early 1900s, it became a popular destination for Sierra Club High Trips, which helped cement the Sabrina Basin’s reputation as a bucket-list spot for Eastern Sierra backpacking.

Know Before You Go

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. 

Driving Directions

From downtown Bishop, take Highway 168 (West Line Street) for 18 miles to Lake Sabrina. The trailhead is at the end of the road near the resort and parking lot.

Parking

Parking is available near the Lake Sabrina dam and trailhead, but fills quickly in summer and on weekends. Arrive early.

Leave No Trace

Please recreate responsibly. Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and avoid trampling sensitive alpine meadows or picking wildflowers. Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams, use a proper bear-proof food storage method, and follow fire restrictions. Respect wildlife, fellow visitors, and the land so future generations can enjoy these places too.

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