29 Jul 25 - Trip/Conditions Report: Hungry Packer Lake Day Hike

With a multitude of incredible peaks and passes as well as access to the Pacific Crest and John Muir Trails, it can be easy to lose yourself in the abundance of multi-day backpacking trips in Bishop’s big backyard. However, for those searching for a bit of alpine beauty without days to spare or just looking to get out for a few hours, there are just as many excellent day hikes that can satisfy an itch to get into the mountains.

Staff member Marion got out for a day hike to Hungry Packer Lake out of the Lake Sabrina trailhead. Here's her report!

Trip/Conditions Report: 

Current As Of: 29 July 2025*

Activity During Report: Day hiking on trail

Trip/Conditions:

A total of 12.5 miles round trip, this hike begins at the Lake Sabrina trailhead and crawls upwards past several lakes before ending at the stunning Hungry Packer Lake nestled beneath Picture Peak.

The first destination (and major water source) along the way is Blue Lake, a 2.5 mile ascent from Sabrina. Some brief sections of switchbacks can feel like a slog, but the well-trodden terrain makes for straightforward hiking.

For those interested in more approachable or short overnight trips, both Blue Lake and Hungry Packer offer scenic and convenient options for camping. I saw several families with younger children pitching tents at Blue Lake, the shorter approach making it an accessible destination.

Continuing past Blue Lake, the trail splits, heading towards Donkey Lake to the left and Dingleberry Lake to the right. Take the trail towards Dingleberry to keep moving towards Hungry Packer. Once you arrive at Dingleberry Lake, water sources become more abundant, with the trail running parallel to Dingleberry and Sailor Lakes as well as the Middle Fork of Bishop Creek, providing plenty of opportunities to filter and refill your water supply.

A highlight is Moonlight Falls, a picturesque waterfall within viewing distance from the trail. Though I opted not to this trip, it’s possible to take a detour off the trail and get a closer look at the falls. They were flowing in full force.

Sitting around 11,000ft, the trail ends at Hungry Packer Lake. The clear turquoise water surrounded by fields of granite, with Picture Peak rising above the lake give it a feeling of remoteness. With easy access to the water, it’s a perfect spot for a swim.

Conditions-wise, just over 2,000 feet of elevation gain is the most challenging aspect of this trail, but those used to hiking in the Sierra will find it a moderate endeavor. There are a few water crossings, but well-placed rocks and lower water levels enable feet to stay dry. Some sections of the trail run over granite slabs and it can be easy to fall off route. Mostly the trail is very well defined, but we always recommend a map or GPS device (this map in particular) just to be safe.

From car to car, the hike took me 6 hours to complete, with several stops for snacks, photos, and a celebratory dip in Hungry Packer. Currently, the trail offers ample wildflower sightings, particularly lupine. I didn’t encounter many mosquitoes, but it never hurts to carry repellant or a net if you’re sensitive to bites. 

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View of Lake Sabrina looking back east down into the Owens Valley

Indian Paintbrush variety trailside early on after the trailhead with Lake Sabrina in the background

A fine example of Kelly's Lily

The ever-picturesque Blue Lake area (hint: Marion's favorite photo of them all!)

Trail views just past Dingleberry Lake

More trail views just past Dingleberry Lake

A variety of Indian Paintbrush trailside en route to the lake

The final mile to Hungry Packer Lake (out of sight) with Picture Peak prominent in the background.

A fine example of lupine with Picture Peak hiding in the background

The classic lakeside shot of Hungry Packer Lake with Picture Peak in the background!

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