Sphinx Lakes
Lake · Eastern Sierra corridor
Sphinx Lakes sits at 10,528 feet in the Eastern Sierra, a high-elevation alpine lake pair nestled below Sphinx Crest. Wind-sheltered by surrounding granite peaks, it typically offers calmer water than the open basins to the east.
Morning glass is common before 10 a.m.; wind builds steadily through midday and peaks in early afternoon. The 30-day average wind of 11 mph masks daily swings from near-calm to sustained 20+ mph by 2 p.m. Water temperature stays cold year-round; expect ice through late spring.
Over the past 30 days, Sphinx Lakes averaged a NoGo Score of 14.0 with an average wind of 11 mph and temperatures around 21 degrees Fahrenheit. Conditions have ranged from excellent (score 4.0) to marginal (score 30.0), typical for high-elevation alpine water in spring. The week ahead will show whether recent calm weather holds or afternoon thermals reassert themselves.
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About Sphinx Lakes
Sphinx Lakes comprises two interconnected alpine pools on the east slope of the Sierra crest, accessible via Highway 395 north from Lone Pine or south from Bishop. The standard approach follows the New Army Pass trail from the Horseshoe Meadow Road turnoff, a rough high-elevation drive best attempted in dry conditions. Most parties reach the lake pair in a half day from the trailhead; the basin sits in full sun exposure with minimal shelter from afternoon wind. The surrounding terrain is bare granite and sparse alpine vegetation; no tree line protection.
The lake sits above 10,500 feet where snow persists through late spring and temperatures swing from freezing overnight to mild midday. The 30-day average temperature of 21 degrees Fahrenheit reflects spring conditions; summer brings warmer days but stays cold at night. Wind peaks in afternoon as thermal circulation strengthens; mornings are distinctly calmer. The 30-day maximum wind of 44 mph shows how exposed this location is to Sierra rotor and funneling. Crowding stays low year-round (30-day average 3.0), typical for remote alpine water requiring a 3+ hour approach.
Sphinx Lakes suits experienced backpackers, mountaineers, and alpine anglers who tolerate cold water, exposed terrain, and logistical complexity. Plan for multiple days if weather turns; there is no bailout. Bring adequate layers for 20-degree Fahrenheit air and full sun reflection off water and rock. Afternoon wind makes morning paddling and fishing the only practical window; expect glass conditions only before 10 a.m. on calm days. The basin fills with meltwater in early summer and remains silty through July. Water clarity peaks in late August and September when flows drop and crowds remain minimal.
Nearby Cottonwood Lakes, lower and slightly warmer, offer a shorter approach with more shelter. Chicken Spring Lake sits higher but smaller. Visitors using Highway 395 often pair Sphinx Lakes with desert access via Lone Pine or Bishop, making it part of an alpine-to-basin shuttle. The Eastern Sierra corridor offers dramatic elevation range; Sphinx Lakes represents the extreme high end where alpine conditions and remoteness filter casual users.