Sherwin Lakes Day Hike
Mammoth Lakes
Sherwin Lakes are reached by a rigorous, uphill hike along a trail that offers great views of Mammoth Mountain and the lower Mammoth Lakes area. Because the Sherwin Lakes trailhead is more than a thousand feet lower than most other day hikes around Mammoth, these pretty lakes make a good early season destination. The 2½ mile trail climbs 863 feet. The cluster of lakes are interesting to explore and a nice destination for photography, fishing, and picnicking.
Sherwin Lakes
Sherwin Lakes Trailhead
Moderate
5 miles
863 feet
Mammoth
The Sherwin Lakes trailhead is off Sherwin Creek Road, 1¼ miles southeast of Old Mammoth Road. The trailhead elevation is at 7,808 feet. Parking and restrooms are available there. Water can be found at Sherwin Creek Campground, ½ mile east on Sherwin Creek Road.
Sherwin Lakes Trail
The Sherwin Lakes trail starts out sandy and arid, but soon passes into the trees, a mixture of aspens and conifers. A short distance after crossing pretty little Sherwin Creek, the trail begins to climb with a steady supply of switchbacks. Through breaks in the trees, views of Mammoth Mountain and other landmarks begin to appear.
Sherwin Creek
At the top of the climb a sign announces a split in the trail, one direction headed on up the valley to Valentine Lake and the other to Sherwin Lake. The upper two lakes are the largest, but all of the lakes are worth visiting. Fishing is good for rainbow and brook trout.
Things to Know
- Leashed pets are permitted on the trail.
- Restrooms are available at the trailhead.
- Drinking water can be found at nearby Sherwin Creek Campground.
Mammoth Mountain from Sherwin Lakes Trail
Nearby Sierra Day Hikes
- Crystal Lake - a dazzlingly beautiful lake
- Emerald Lake - a short hike to a pretty mountain lake
- TJ Lake - short hike to another scenic lake
Other Nearby Trails
The Valentine Lake Trail continues past Sherwin Lakes for another 2½ miles and 1000-foot climb up the valley. The long, narrow lake is surrounded by rugged, unnamed peaks.
Choose from all the Best Campgrounds around Reds Meadow and Mammoth Lakes
