The hike to Ediza Lake is just under seven miles with over 1,250 feet of elevation gain. The trail is scenic as it passes Shadow Lake and follows the cascades of Shadow Creek, often lined with summer wildflowers. At 9,265 feet the granite bowl opens to jaw-dropping views of the Minarets spires, Mount Ritter, and Banner Peak.
We spent two nights at Ediza Lake and I am glad we did. On the second morning glorious clouds filled the sky. I positioned myself on a rock across the lake and waited as the first warm light began to paint the jagged peaks with perfect alpenglow. The reflection in the calm water made the whole scene feel almost unreal. Getting up at 5:30 AM was more than worth it.
The Ansel Adams Wilderness offers some of the most stunning alpine scenery I have ever backpacked through. This photograph captures that perfect dawn moment when light, clouds, and mountains aligned perfectly, reflected in the still waters of Ediza Lake. Bring that Sierra alpine magic and the glow of first light on the Minarets into your space.