Rutherford Lake Trail

Rutherford Lake sits at 9,730 feet in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, part of Sierra National Forest just south of Yosemite's boundary, according to Hiking Project. This isn't a roadside stop or a day hike — you get here on a multi-day backpacking trip, typically via the Fernandez Trailhead near Bass Lake, following the Fernandez Pass Trail for several miles before a signed spur climbs to the lake itself.

Getting There

The Fernandez Trailhead is off Beasore Road near Bass Lake, north of Oakhurst. From the main trail, a left-fork spur reaches Rutherford Lake in about 0.2 miles, per Hiking Project — short, but steep enough with loose footing to feel longer. The same junction continues on to neighboring Anne Lake. Dogs are allowed on leash.

Permits

Overnight trips out of the Fernandez Trailhead require a wilderness permit, booked through Recreation.gov. Per Sierra National Forest, 60% of the trailhead's quota is reservable in advance for a $6 processing fee plus $5 per person; the remaining share is released as free walk-in permits, first-come, first-served. Walk-in permits are issued at the Bass Lake Ranger Station in North Fork or the High Sierra Ranger Station in Prather — call ahead to confirm current procedures before you drive out.

At the Lake and Beyond

Rutherford's shoreline is rocky and exposed rather than sandy, with limited room to camp right at the water — campfires aren't allowed here. Anne Lake, just over the ridge on the same trail, is more sheltered among trees and a better bet for pitching a tent. Many backpackers use the two lakes as a base before continuing on the Fernandez Pass Trail toward Fernandez Pass itself, deeper into the wilderness.