Hike to Half Moon Lake in Desolation Wilderness

This hike starts at the Glen Alpine Trailhead near Fallen Leaf Lake. Because Desolation is a wilderness area, you are required to fill out a day-use permit which can be found at the trailhead. If you are backpacking make sure to obtain an overnight permit either online or at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center.

After you fill out your permit, start heading up the gravel road behind the gate. This road takes you passed old summer homes and roughly follows the Glen Alpine Creek. Along the way, you can also see Modjeska Falls. The road eventually becomes a single track and starts climbing through the glacially carved granite that Desolation is famous for.

After about two miles you will reach the intersection with the Grass Lake trail. Stay to the right to keep climbing up the Glen Alpine Trail.

The trail keeps meandering through forest for another 1.6 miles until it reaches another intersection. Keep right to stay on the correct path.

Eventually the trail crosses the PCT and there will be a sign indicating the correct direction towards Half Moon Lake. This portion of the trail then climbs another 200 feet ending at the alpine lake.

If you are looking to camp, the adjacent Alta Morris lake is a perfect spot to get away from the main trail.

To get back, simply take the same trail back to the Glen Alpine Trailhead.