If you are looking for a true California treasure, look no further than Mammoth. Stunning alpine lakes and dramatic mountains await you as you explore this lovely area. After participating in the land’s beauty, you’ll never want to leave!
There’s always an adventure here waiting just around every corner, boasting five beautiful lakes accessible by car and trail, perfect spots for camping, fishing, or swimming.
Hiking is a great way to get out of town and enjoy the fresh air. There are many trails in the park with varying difficulty levels, so no matter your skill level, you’ll find something that suits you! You can take a stroll through nature all day or find a short evening hike. You will indeed find a walk that suits your energy and ability levels.
Crystal Lake Trail
The crystal clear waters of Crystal Lake are a great place to end your day hike. The multiple lakes on this trail endpoint at one beautiful spot full of fish and wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers!
The Crystal Lake Trailhead starts by Lake George in the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Limited parking spaces are available, so arrive early!
The Crystal Lake Trail is a moderate 3-mile out and back trail. This short but challenging hike has an 800-foot elevation gain, which might require some physical conditioning to complete without stopping for breaks on this route! Once you reach the top of your climb, there will be views like no other. Sensational scenery from both lakes George & Mary come into view as you approach the destination.
You will be treated to a breathtaking view of the Mammoth Lakes Basin as you near its highest point. A perfect place to soak in the sun and settle yourself in nature!
- Length: 3 miles there and back
- Time: 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Are Dogs Allowed? Yes
Convict Lake Loop
Convict Lake, near Mammoth, features a picturesque landscape with turquoise water and mountains. This area is famous for fishing, in addition to hiking trails that lead you across the lake or check out the views on the well-maintained bike paths.
We usually take Highway 395 when driving up to Mammoth, and we’ve passed through this area numerous times without realizing that a beautiful little lake is here. Hence, there is hope to have more privacy. Convict Lake isn’t extensive, but it’s the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic with friends or family!
This name comes from when a group of criminals took refuge here after escaping prison, and it’s now known as an incredible spot for outdoor activities like camping!
The Convict Lake Loop is a popular day hike in this area, with a 3-mile loop that goes around the entire lake. The trailhead starts by the boat dock and travels next to beautiful waters throughout your trip! You can also take some side trails down if you want to fish or jump into swimming. Still, much will be overgrown bushes along these paths, so be cautious as you make your way to the water and stay on designated trails!
When you visit Convict Lake, be sure to take in the scenic beauty of this region. The dramatic mountain landscape was formed by ancient glaciers creating a unique spectacular beauty.
An excellent spot for nature lovers who want an up-close look at these incredible rock formations with blue water (especially on sunny days)
- Length: 3 miles
- Time: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Are Dogs Allowed? Yes
Skelton Lake Trail
If you need a pet-friendly hike, I recommend taking on this 3-mile-long trail leading to Skelton Lake. Hiking the gorgeous Skelton Lake trail is a great way to spend an afternoon with your pet. This hike offers beautiful mountain scenery with crystal-clear lakes, making it perfect for any person or pet!
This trailhead is just minutes from Mammoth Lakes and can be accessed quickly by those who need a quick adventure. The Skelton Lake Trail starts at Duck Lake Pass, next door to Cold Water Campground. This point also offers stunning views, so make sure you take advantage before it fills up fast this summer season.
The trail starts with a steady climb across sandy, rocky terrain through the covered forest. Bring good hiking shoes! About 1 mile in, you will reach your first lake along this hike- Arrowhead Lake! The iconic lake is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely and picturesque afternoon under blue skies while taking scenic selfies by its edge.
The trail winds about 1.5 miles through the forest before reaching Skelton Lake, where you can walk around and enjoy the scenery. With stunning views of both mountainsides from shoreline areas near your campfire if camping there too! The turnaround point is Emerald lake, which has an intense green color in contrast to the jagged peaks behind it. – perfect for photographers who want something different than typical daytime shots. There is no question this lake was correctly named. You will be pleased to experience it in person.
- Length: 3 miles there and back
- Time: 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Are Dogs Allowed? Yes
Sherwin Lakes Trail
Sherwin Lakes is an excellent spot for those who want some quiet outdoor time. Located on an outskirt of Mammoth lakes, it doesn’t get as crowded or busy with people as other day hikes; this means you can enjoy nature without any distractions! The 4-mile-long wilderness trail will take you up into pine forests before reaching a mountain lake surrounded by gorgeous scenery.
Hiking and camping in Sherwin Lakes may be a little more complicated than at lower altitudes due to the thick brush that covers much of this area. With proper preparation, you can have a successful and lovely time.
The beginning section leads through low shrubs before turning into the alpine forest. Once reaching higher ground, one can see mountain views from the lookout point on clear days. Because of California’s recent droughts and other factors such as development in nearby areas, it has an off-color tint rather than its previous greenish-blue color, with water levels dropping.
It doesn’t matter how pretty you think your landscape looks when there’s no rain around! The view from atop one last peak made all those hours worth it! The location blesses you with a sandy spot to relax and recover after the intense hike. Adventurous friends may even jump in the water to cool off.
- Length: 4.5 miles there and back
- Time: 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Are Dogs Allowed? Yes
McLeod Lake Trail
This 1.8-mile trail is perfect for all ages and abilities! You can take your dog on this hike, too – it doesn’t matter if they’re young or old because the terrain isn’t too tricky overall (though there are some rocks). It only takes about an hour to complete one entire round trip from the start. Horseshoe Lake will be your turnaround point.
As you begin your hike up the McLeod Lake Trail, it is not long before all signs of civilization disappear. The relief is that being surrounded by nature will greet you. The trees grow thicker and their colors richer.
No need to stress out about getting lost on the trail; it only takes 0.5 miles each way, so you’ll be there in no time, and it is well maintained! You can extend your hike by taking a loop around the entire lake before heading back, an opportunity for those wanting to continue their hike a bit more.
The clear waters of McLeod Lake are filled with rocks and logs, topped by a thin layer of sand. It’s an easy hike that allows you to enjoy nature without distractions or human congestion – just your surroundings for almost 2 miles! Jump in the lake for a quick swim and feel refreshed after that hike!
- Length: 1.8 miles there and back
- Time: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Are Dogs Allowed? Yes
Horseshoe Lake Trail
The Horseshoe Lake Trail starts at the same area as McLeod. Still, suppose you’re looking for something with an interesting geological feature different from other Mammoth lakes. In that case, this one is worth checking out!
Horseshoe Lake is a popular destination for ghost hunters and nature lovers alike. In 1989, an earthquake caused high amounts of carbon dioxide gas to be released from the surrounding area killing all trees within 100 acres around Horshoe Sound’s shoreline. – visitors can now experience this eerie setting with over 100 fallen or cut-down deadwood! The hike starts in an area that is eerily reminiscent of a science fiction movie.
Horseshoe Lake is a pretty scenic place to visit, but it’s not recommended that you spend too much time by the lake because of toxic gases. If possible, avoid sitting in depression areas where these emissions can collect. Enjoy this natural wonder while walking or biking!
The Horseshoe Lake Trail is a great way to take in all that’s wonderful about this picturesque area. Begin your hike by heading down the wide trail entrance and following it as it wraps around one side of beautiful, clear waters. Before crossing over into another section with plenty more breathtaking views!
As the path winds its way around Horseshoe Lake, it offers different perspectives on this beautiful natural wonder. The forested area covers various species of animals who can find safety and shelter among these ancient trees – including our humans!
- Length: 1.8 miles there and back
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Are Dogs Allowed? Yes
Heart Lake Trail
There are few places in the world like Heart Lake. This secluded wilderness trail leads to an alpine lake shaped like a heart with options for quick side trips through the forest or onto open meadows if you have more time!
A popular destination during the summer months, this hike will lead past bustling streams.
The Heart Lake Trail in California’s High Sierra is one of the most popular hiking trails because it offers an adventurous hike with great views. The 0.5-mile loop can be accessed from Mammoth Lakes. The town is within 15 minutes, where you’ll find historical artifacts and ruins left behind by people looking for gold during one of America’s most significant times: The Gold Rush!
As you walk along the path, various mining equipment and engines from an ore processing mill are visible. The buildings where miners once lived can also be seen in this scene; one such building includes their antique kitchens! Keep going for more old structures that are museums of a time long ago.
Heart Lake is a place of serenity and beauty. When you reach the end point of this hike, take time to enjoy your surroundings before continuing with another adventure!
There are plenty of places for breaks and rest and opportunities to see wildlife like deer. Plus, there’s always something new around every corner – what will it be this trip?
The Trail Continues Partially In Open Space And partially in Shaded Forest. It’s so calming standing on top and looking out onto its surface—a place where you can truly appreciate a unique view of nature.
- Length: 2.5 miles there and back
- Time: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Are Dogs Allowed? Yes
Where To Stay
When you plan to camp at Mammoth Lakes, there are many great camping grounds in this beautiful location. Some of my favorites include:
- Mammoth’s High Sierra Campground and Split Rock Resort.
- Coldwater Campground
- Lake Mary Campground
- Twin Lakes Campground
Suppose you’re looking for a fantastic vacation rental in Mammoth Lakes, California. In that case, that will make your stay more enjoyable and comfortable; try these ten choices!
