This is a short but popular backpacking destination. This hike will bring you into the heart of the Indian Heaven wilderness where bog blueberries and huckleberries are abundant in August.
Young hikers will love the warm water of shallow Junction Lake. Once camp is set up, relax and enjoy the surrounding subalpine meadows or walk a little farther and step onto the Pacific Crest Trail.
Junction Lake

Length
5.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation
Gain: 700 ft.
Highest Point: 4780 ft.
Rating
Junction Lake
Map & Directions
Getting There
From Carson drive 5.8 miles on the Wind River Road, then turn right onto Old State road. Stay on Old State Rd for 0.1 miles then turn left onto Panther Creek Rd (Fr-65) for 11 miles. At the four way intersection take a right onto FR-60 (turns into a gravel road). Turn left onto FR-6030 for East Crater and Forlorn Lakes. Drive 0.2 miles then take a left onto FR-6035. After 4.4 miles pull to the right where East Crater Trail head begins.