The Inyo National Forest announces plans to repave and improve parking lot drainage at the South Lake Day Use and Trailhead parking lots this September. This much-needed work will also better protect natural resources in the area by reducing siltation. This closure will have a significant impact on recreationalists to this popular area. The South Lake parking lots will be closed from September 8, 2015 until October 30, 2015 (7 weeks). Boat ramp and trailer parking will not be available during the closure. The point of closure will be the La Hupp Picnic Area, which will be used to accommodate vehicle turnaround, but not parking. Recreational vehicles and vehicles with trailers will not be permitted use of the South Lake Road beyond Willow Campground during this construction closure.

Roadside parking will be authorized along South Lake Road, down canyon from Parchers Resort. Please do not park at Parchers Resort or at Rainbow Pack Station unless you are a customer. Hiking access to South Lake, Bishop Pass Trail, and Treasure Lakes will be via Parchers Resort and the Rainbow Pack Station. It is approximately one mile to connect to the Bishop Pass Trail at South Lake from this location.

“The Inyo National Forest realizes this closure will be inconvenient to recreational users of South Lake and that the reconstruction activities will affect many recreational activities,” said Ed Armenta, Forest Supervisor. “We request your patience in the short-term during this project that will dramatically improve the experience in the long-term.”