Mammoth Lakes Day Hikes

Discover this hidden gem tucked among the trees less than a mile from the Coldwater Campground trailhead by Lake Mary. The perfect place to find some solitude along the shore to soak in the wonderful scenery.

Enjoy a wonderful morning hike with views of the Mammoth Crest as you ascend 1.1-mile to pretty little Heart Lake. Relax on the shore with a tasty brunch and then wander around to the east side of the lake for great pictures.

Take the short hike up to a pair of volcanic craters formed in the mid-14th century by steam-explosions generated when hot magmatic rock was contacted by ground water. The result was 200-foot deep, 660-foot wide craters. Small lakes are at the bottom of each crater.

From the Coldwater Campground trailhead, stroll across Mammoth Creek to the remnants of a 19th and early 20th century gold mine. Pass by old bunkhouses, superintendent's cabin, and fascinating mining machinery. Peer into tunnels leading deep into Red Mountain.

Lower in elevation than most of the Mammoth Lakes, Sherwin Lakes make a great early season destination. Some may prefer the beauty of the aspens in the fall. The 2½-mile hike climbs steadily, offering wonderful views of Mammoth Mountain along the way.

The 1.8-mile hike to Skelton Lake makes a wonderful day trip. From the trailhead near Lake Mary, hikers climb through a pretty conifer forest. Skelton Lake's quarter-mile length provides many great spots for fishing, photography, or just plain enjoying the beauty of the scenery.

Enjoy an easy 0.8-mile hike from Lake George to this beautiful alpine lake. Bring along a picnic, a fishing pole, and your camera. Relax on its shores and take in the magnificent view of the Mammoth Crest.

Get up close to Minaret Falls with an easy hike, crossing the bridge over the San Joaquin River. In early season stand before roaring cataracts and later in the summer enjoy the whimsical display of dancing waters across the granite.

In early summer make this easy hike in Devils Postpile National Monument to thundering Rainbow Falls. Perhaps you'll see a rainbow at the base of the falls. Take in the geologic wonders of the Devils Postpile along the way.

From Reds Meadow hike to this beautiful mountain lake in the Ansel Adams Wilderness. Make it a full-day outing with a picnic and perhaps some fishing. Bring your camera to capture the grandeur of this scenic place.

With a trailhead right on the June Lake Loop, Fern Lake makes a great 1.7-mile day hike. The beautiful alpine lake is watched over by rugged granite peaks and towering pines. Find a nice rock along the shore to enjoy a picnic or fish for trout.

Two miles of trail lead to Parker Lake, hidden away from most visitors in the June Lake Loop area. Gaze at towering peaks, rugged valleys, and crystal water. Fish for brook trout.