Intake Two Lake
A serene mountain lake in Bishop, CA, famed for its stunning fall foliage and excellent trout fishing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall colors & fewer crowds
Intake Two Lake
Best Time
Peak fall colors & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mountain lake in Bishop, CA, famed for its stunning fall foliage and excellent trout fishing.
"The neat yellow leaves on the lakeside are more beautiful and fantastic than flowers."
🎯 Catch the Fall Colors
Visit in October for stunning yellow aspen leaves around the lake.
🎣 Prime Fishing Times
Try fishing at sunrise or sunset for rainbow trout, especially with wooly boogers or caddis.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Fall Foliage
Lakeside
Golden aspen trees line the lake, creating a breathtaking spectacle of fall colors against the clear water.
Scenic Lakeside Walk
Perimeter trail
A gentle 1-mile loop around the lake offers stunning views and photo opportunities.
Fishing Haven
Lake shores
Known for rainbow trout, this spot is a favorite for anglers seeking a peaceful fishing experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Colors
Fishing & Accessibility Notes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Fall Colors
Visit in October for stunning yellow aspen leaves around the lake. 
🎣 Prime Fishing Times
Try fishing at sunrise or sunset for rainbow trout, especially with wooly boogers or caddis.
🚶♀️ Easy Lakeside Stroll
Enjoy a flat, 1-mile walk around the lake on an old access road.
☕ Don't Miss Local Treats
Grab a bite at Schat's Bakery in Bishop for delicious treats.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Fall Colors
Visit in October for stunning yellow aspen leaves around the lake.
🎣 Prime Fishing Times
Try fishing at sunrise or sunset for rainbow trout, especially with wooly boogers or caddis.
🚶♀️ Easy Lakeside Stroll
Enjoy a flat, 1-mile walk around the lake on an old access road.
☕ Don't Miss Local Treats
Grab a bite at Schat's Bakery in Bishop for delicious treats.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures drop quickly after sunset, so pack warm clothing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Intake Two Lake for its stunning natural beauty, especially the vibrant fall foliage in October and its appeal as a peaceful fishing spot. The clear lake waters and scenic surroundings are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some minor accessibility concerns regarding gates have been noted, but overall, it's considered a must-see destination.
"💧The lake water is clear and clean.
📸 The neat yellow leaves on the lakeside are more beautiful and fantastic than flowers. 🍁
🐟 Great for fish fishing."
DJKwan Lee
"Awesome place to relax and fish. Whether or not you catch a fish is a different story. I didn't catch any.
The scenery is beautiful and so are the people.
Must see place up near Bishop California."
William Smith
"I enjoyed it and I'm thankful they provide a place for handicapped but I am disappointed that the gate does not allow for wheelchairs or mobility scooters to go around it to fish at a different spot in the res."
Jon Umpierre
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Intake Two Lake is located about 16 miles west of Bishop, California. From Los Angeles, you'll typically drive north on US-395. The lake is part of the Bishop Creek system, often visited alongside other lakes like Sabrina and South Lake.
Yes, Intake Two Lake is accessible by car. It's situated along Bishop Creek, and there's an old access road that circles the lake, making it easy to reach.
Intake Two Lake sits at an elevation of approximately 8,103 feet.
Absolutely! Intake Two Lake is one of several beautiful lakes in the Bishop Creek area, including Sabrina Lake, South Lake, and North Lake, which are popular for fall foliage viewing.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, the presence of an old access road suggests that parking is available, especially for those accessing the lake for fishing or a stroll.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, no specific entry permit is required for day use at Intake Two Lake itself. However, if you plan to fish, you will need a California fishing license.
Intake Two Lake is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours as it's an outdoor natural area.
There is no entrance fee to visit Intake Two Lake. It's a natural attraction, and access is free for visitors.
Yes, Intake Two Lake is a great spot for a picnic. There are picnic tables available, making it a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
While the water is clear and clean, swimming is generally not recommended due to the cold mountain temperatures. It's primarily known as a fishing and scenic spot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Many visitors enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, taking in the views and capturing photos of the fall colors. It's also a popular spot for fishing.
During peak fall foliage season (October), the lake can get busy, especially on weekends. Visiting on a weekday or early in the morning can help avoid crowds.
Intake Two Lake is known for its rainbow trout population, making it a popular destination for anglers. [^Review]
Information on specific restroom facilities is limited, but it's advisable to be prepared for limited amenities in more remote natural areas.
Yes, Intake Two Lake is a photographer's paradise, especially in the fall when the aspen trees turn vibrant yellow. The clear water and mountain backdrop offer stunning shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Intake Two Lake is a natural area, so there are no restaurants directly on-site. However, the nearby town of Bishop offers various dining options, including the highly recommended Schat's Bakery.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is a great idea. There are picnic tables available, and it's a beautiful setting to enjoy a meal.
Schat's Bakery in Bishop is a local favorite, known for its delicious baked goods and sandwiches. It's a must-visit if you're in the area.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, especially during the fall. The golden hour can create magical shots of the foliage and water.
Focus on the vibrant yellow aspen leaves against the blue sky and clear lake water. The reflections in the lake and the surrounding mountain scenery are also excellent subjects.
Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check with local authorities or the Inyo National Forest for current drone usage policies before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The clear lake and surrounding nature provide plenty of opportunities for kids to observe and learn. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, making it a fun and relaxed family day trip. Remember to bring layers of clothing, as mountain weather can change quickly, ensuring everyone stays comfortable throughout the visit.🎣 Anglers Seeking Trout
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+1 The vibrant golden aspens create stunning visual opportunities, and the clear lake offers beautiful reflections. The gentle trail makes it easy to find the perfect vantage point without a difficult hike. Early mornings are ideal for capturing the best light and avoiding crowds, allowing for a more immersive photographic experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Fall Foliage at Intake Two Lake
+1 The relatively easy access and the gentle perimeter trail make it an ideal spot for photographers and nature lovers alike to immerse themselves in the vibrant autumn colors. To truly capture the magic, aim for an early morning visit. The soft morning light illuminates the leaves beautifully, and you'll often find fewer crowds, allowing for a more serene experience. The reflections of the golden aspens on the still surface of Intake Two Lake are particularly captivating.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty for future visitors. Fishing at Intake Two Lake: Tips from Anglers
For the best fishing results, Redditors suggest targeting sunrise and sunset, particularly using lures like wooly boogers or caddis.
Accessibility and Visitor Experience
This trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering continuous scenic views. The lake is also noted for its clean water and beautiful lakeside scenery. [^Review]However, there are some considerations regarding accessibility. While the area is appreciated for providing a place for handicapped individuals, one reviewer noted that the gate at the far end of the dam might restrict wheelchair or mobility scooter access to certain fishing spots. [^Review] It's advisable for visitors with mobility concerns to be aware of this potential limitation when planning their visit. Despite this, the overall atmosphere is described as awesome for relaxation and enjoying nature. [^Review]
Social
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