The Pinnacle Lake trailhead sits along the South Fork Forest Service Road (Monashee Creek Road), southeast of Cherryville, BC, roughly 45 minutes from Vernon. The small parking area accommodates a few vehicles and has no amenities or cell service.

The trail begins at the far end of the lot. The trailhead sits adjacent to Railroad Creek, whose name hints at the area's industrial past — old timbers are still visible underfoot along the early, unusually wide and flat trail section.

Hikers must cross a creek shortly after setting out; a rope strung across the water marks the crossing, which can be challenging during high water earlier in summer. Waterproof footwear is strongly recommended.

From here, the 9 km return route climbs into the Monashee Mountains toward an alpine lake set beneath dramatic rock faces. Sections of the trail are steep, muddy, and remote, and a standard passenger vehicle may struggle on the access road.