Mammoth Lakes isn’t just a ski town—it’s a hiker’s paradise packed with glacier-carved lakes, granite ridgelines, and trails for every skill level. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or a high-elevation escape, these ten hikes showcase the best of Mammoth Lakes.
| Trail Name | Mileage | Elevation Gain |
| Duck Lake via Emerald Lake | ~7.9 miles | 1,700 feet |
| Barney Lake | ~5.1 miles | 900 feet |
| Duck Pass and Pika Lake | ~4.9 miles | 1,200 feet |
| Sherwin Lakes | ~4.3 miles | 850 feet |
| Horseshoe and Lake Mammie | ~3.5 miles | 600 feet |
| Skeleton Lake | ~3.5 miles | 650 feet |
| Crystal Lake Trail | ~3.2 miles | 800 feet |
| Convict Lake | ~2.5 miles | 75 feet |
| McLeod Lake | ~1.8 miles | 400 feet |
| Crowley Lake Columns | ~1.2 miles | 150 feet |
| Devils Postpile | ~1.2 miles | 100 feet |
Duck Lake via Emerald Lake Trail ~7.9 miles
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Emerald Lake
Distance: ~7.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pets: On-leash
A longer, more rugged version of the Duck Pass trail, this route gives you views of both Duck and Emerald Lakes. For strong hikers craving alpine views and a solid climb.
Barney Lake ~7.8 miles
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Coldwater Creek
Distance: 7.8 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,400 feet
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pets: On-leash
Barney Lake is a scenic alpine lake tucked along the popular Duck Pass Trail in the Mammoth Lakes Basin. It’s often used as a turnaround point for those who want a solid half-day hike without committing to the full Duck Lake climb. The trail takes you past beautiful forest, wildflowers in summer, and stunning views of the Mammoth Crest.
You’ll hike past Arrowhead and Skelton Lakes before reaching Barney, which sits in a glacial bowl surrounded by rugged peaks and granite cliffs.
Duck Pass ~4.9 miles
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Coldwater Creek
Distance: ~4.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pets: On-leash
This Coldwater Creek classic climbs through meadows, lakes, and wildflowers before topping out with views of the distant Silver Divide. Optional detour to Pika Lake adds solitude and serenity.
Sherwin Lakes ~4.3 miles
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Sherwin Creek
Distance: ~4.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 900 feet|
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pets: On-leash
A forested climb from Sherwin Creek up to twin alpine lakes tucked below granite walls. Quiet, underrated, and a favorite for locals.
Horseshoe to Lake Mamie ~3.5 miles
Town: Mammoth Lake
Trailhead: Lake Mary Road (park near Twin Lakes or Tamarack Lodge)
Distance: ~1-3 mile round-trip
Gain: ~100 feet
Route: Out-and-back
Pets: On-leash
Lake Mamie is one of the Mammoth Lakes Basin’s easiest-to-reach lakes. It’s just up the hill from Twin Lakes and just below Lake Mary, and can be accessed via a paved or dirt walking path, depending on your route. You’ll pass through forested areas with great views of Mammoth Mountain and the Twin Lakes waterfall spillway.
There’s no strenuous hike involved—more of a leisurely lakeside stroll, making this spot a great option for families, people with dogs, or folks who want to fish, picnic, or just take in the view without climbing a mountain.
Skeleton Lake Loop ~3.5 miles
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Emerald Lake
Distance: ~3.5 miles
Gain: 400 feet
Route: Loop
Pets: On-leash
A scenic loop from Lake Mary offering forested paths, mountain views, and a beautiful (and lesser-known) alpine lake.
Crystal Lake Trail ~3.2 miles
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Crystal Lake
Distance: ~3.2 miles
Elevation: 800 feet
Route: Out-and-back
Pets: On-leash
Starting from Lake George, this short but steep trail leads to one of the most scenic alpine lakes in the region. Epic views of Mammoth Crest and Lake Mary below make it a must-hike.
Convict Lake Loop ~2.5 miles
Town: Outside of Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Convict Lake
Distance: ~2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 160 feet
Route Type: Loop
Pets: On-leash
A flat, family-friendly loop around a jewel-toned lake with craggy mountain views. Perfect for golden hour strolls and lazy summer mornings.
McLeod Lake ~1.8 miles
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Horseshoe Lake
Distance: ~1.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 300 feet
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pets: On-leash
Short, shady, and sweet—this trail from Horseshoe Lake is perfect for families or an afternoon dip. Clear blue water and mellow vibes.
Devils Postpile Loop ~1.2 miles
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Devils Postpile Ranger Station
Distance: ~1.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 150 feet
Route Type: Loop
Pets: On-leash
A geological marvel with hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient lava flows. Combine with Rainbow Falls for a full-day adventure.
Duck Lake via Emerald Lake Trail ~7.9 miles
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Emerald Lake
Distance: ~7.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pets: On-leash
A longer, more rugged version of the Duck Pass trail, this route gives you views of both Duck and Emerald Lakes. For strong hikers craving alpine views and a solid climb.
Bounus: Crowley Lake Columns ~1.2 miles
Accessible only when water levels allow, this unique hike along the lake’s edge leads to otherworldly volcanic rock formations. Great for sunset.
Town: Mammoth Lakes
Trailhead: Crowley Lake
Distance: ~4.2
Gain: ~100–300 feet
Route: Out-and-back
Pets: On-leash
Last but Not Least #leavenotrace
Please recreate responsibly. Stay on trail, pack out all trash, and avoid picking wildflowers or disturbing wildlife. Respect the land, the people who steward it, and the hikers around you.
AWE Disclaimer: Recreation activities may involve inherent risks, including but not limited to changing weather conditions, challenging terrain, wildlife encounters, and other unforeseen hazards. Visitors should check with local land management agencies or authorities for up-to-date information on trail conditions, access, permits, and regulations before planning their trip. Always prioritize safety by being prepared, carrying adequate supplies, and following Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment. Respect local rules, private property, and other visitors. This post is for informational purposes only, and participation in any activity is at your own risk.
