A Backpack to the Remote Lyell Fork of the Merced River

Bernice Lake from the cross-country route to Gallison Lake.

Cross-Country

A Trail and Cross-Country Route to the Lyell Fork, July 2007

Even better than the stay at the lake is the cross-country opportunities this doorway lake provides. Beyond Bernice Lake is an easy hike to Gallison Lake and the high canyon of Lewis Creek with its seven large lakes and many ponds. I hiked to the north end of Bernice Lake and crossed the active stream and followed it ways along some large ponds, all part of the outlet stream of a lake just above at about 10,400 feet, which joins the outlet stream of Bernice Lake.

The stream-ponds from the lake at about 10,400 feet above Bernice Lake , which joins the outlet waters of Bernice Lake. Parsons Peak is on the horizon.

The 10,400 foot lakes outlet stream cascades down to the Bernice Lake basin.

Typical terrain around Bernice lake, this looking towards the canyon just above Bernice Lake.