If you’re looking for excellent day hikes in Mammoth, the Skelton Lake Trail is a moderate 3.4-mile-long hike that leads to a pristine alpine lake. You also have the option to do this trail as a loop and visit three different lakes along the way (which I highly recommend doing). This is a trail that I’ve hiked several times, including an overnight camping trip next to Skelton Lake. It’s an incredibly rewarding hike that is great for beginner hikers, families, and dogs. In this post, I share what you can expect if you plan to hike the Skelton Lake Trail, including where to park, trail difficulty, what route to take,…

Horseshoe Lake Trail is a beautiful day hike in Mammoth Lakes, California. This lake is located within the Inyo National Forest and is part of the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Horseshoe Lake Trail is an easy loop that is popular for hiking and mountain biking. Here you can explore Mars-like landscapes with many fallen, dead trees from past earthquakes and high amounts of carbon dioxide gases that were released from the ground. In this post, I cover details for where to park, trail difficulty, and what you should know before you head out to visit Horseshoe Lake! Horseshoe Lake Trail Highlights Here are a few quick trail highlights before I dive…

Filled with stunning alpine lakes, dramatic mountains, lush forests, and incredible hiking trails, Mammoth is a true California treasure. The mammoth region has over 100 lakes, many of which are easily accessible along short day hikes. Mammoth Lakes is one of the best places in California to explore the Sierra Nevada mountains and enjoy outdoor recreation activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and swimming. If you’re planning a trip to Mammoth and are looking for easy hikes to do in the area, this post has you covered! I share 7 of my favorite Mammoth day hikes plus other hiking tips to make the best of your trip. Here are 7 of…

McLeod Lake Trail is a short wilderness hike in Mammoth Lakes that leads to a stunning alpine lake. If you’re looking for a relatively easy and quick trail – put McLeod Lake on top of your list! Mcleod Lake Trail is less than 2 miles long so it’s perfect for families and people with dogs. This lake also offers great swimming and fishing opportunities (catch & release only). In this post, I cover where the McLeod Lake Trail is located, what you can expect if you plan to hike it, and other visitor tips. Quick Trail Highlights Here are a few quick McLeod Lake Trail highlights before I go into…

For the past few summers, I have been searching for the best day hikes to do in Mammoth Lakes. On my most recent trip, I hiked to TJ Lake, a small and quiet alpine lake not far from Lake George. The TJ Lake Trail via Lake George leads to multiple serene lakes with beautiful views of the surrounding mountain peaks. This location also offers great swimming, bouldering, and fishing opportunities. In this post, I share details for hiking TJ Lake Trail including where to park, what to expect, and what you need to know before heading out there! Quick Trail Highlights Here are a few quick TJ Lake Trail highlights…

Sherwin Lakes Trail is a stunning mountain hike in Inyo National Forest that leads to an alpine lake. Located on the outskirts of Mammoth Lakes, this is a secluded wilderness trail that doesn’t get as busy as some of the other day hikes in this region. This trail travels up gradual switchbacks in a forest with excellent mountain views along the way. It is also very dog friendly so many people bring their four-legged friends along for some fresh air and exercise. If you’re planning to hike Sherwin Lakes Trail, I cover where the trailhead is located, hike difficulty, and other tips to know before you head out there! Quick…

Planning to visit Inyo Craters in Mammoth? Inyo Craters is a short and interesting wilderness trail that leads to a set of volcanic craters hidden deep within the forest. This trail offers a look into the unique geology makeup of Mammoth Lakes and has amazing views along the way. In this guide, we share everything you need to know to hike the Inyo Craters trail year-round. This guide includes where to park, what to expect, and know before you head out there! Table Of Contents: Inyo Craters Trail Location & Parking If you’re planning to hike the Inyo Craters Trail in the summer, you can drive on Dry Creek Road…

Barney Lake Trail is a stunning wilderness hike in Mammoth Lakes that leads to several alpine lakes. I’ve done this trail multiple times over the past few years and there’s always something new to discover that keeps me coming back! The ease of accessibility and the gorgeous landscape make this route one of the most popular hiking options in Mammoth. Along the way, you’ll enjoy great views of Skelton Lake, meandering creeks, and have lots of opportunities for rest breaks and taking photos. In this post, I cover where the Barney Lake Trail is located, what you can expect if you plan to hike it, and other visitor tips! Quick…