Crystal Lake Day Hike

Mammoth Lakes

Crystal Lake is one of the most scenic destinations in the Mammoth Lakes basin. Soon after hikers set out on the 1¾-mile trail up to the lake, panoramic views of Lake George and Lake Mary appear. The hike is uphill, enough to challenge most visitors, but the rewards are worth the effort. The rugged Mammoth Crest forms the backdrop for Crystal Lake while granite outcroppings mix with trees along the shore.

Crystal Lake Trailhead

Crystal Lake trailhead is at the end of the road up to Lake George. Parking is available in the day use area. At times the lot is full and visitors seek parking back along the road. Be sure to park off the pavement. Restrooms are nearby and water can be found in the Lake George Campground.

Crystal Lake Trail

The trail to Crystal Lake begins around on the northwestern side of Lake George and begins to climb almost immediately. The trailhead is at an elevation of 9,124 feet and Crystal Lake at 9,623 feet, making for a 500-foot climb. Most of it comes in the first mile. A short distance up the trail switchbacks arrive, traversing the slope through the trees. After a mile, hikers arrive at a trail junction. To the right the trail leads up to the ridge and along the Mammoth Crest. To the left is the route to Crystal Lake, with a much gentler grade than the first part of the trail.

Watch for views behind you, looking out over Lake George, Lake Mary and more distant parts of the Mammoth Lakes area. Soon Crystal Lake emerges with its dramatic setting below the Mammoth Crest. For anyone planning to spend some time at the lake, you can work your way along either shoreline and find nice spans of polished granite on which to relax and enjoy the view. Fishing is good at Crystal Lake.