Despite not having National Park status, the Big Pine Lakes are more loved than some of the National Parks that we've visited. Nestled deep within the Inyo National Forest, the Big Pine Lakes are only accessible via a challenging 15.2 mile out and back hike, but the natural beauty and pristine glacial lakes are worth every second and bead of sweat. The hike itself is complete with switchbacks of varying altitudes, waterfalls, creeks, abandoned ranger's homes and shaded meadows that give it the perfect versatility to keep your legs moving. The destination - five turquoise lakes sparkled between the Palisade Glacier and Sierra Nevada Mountains, will absolutely blow your mind and make the hike feel worth every second.