5 Lakes Worth the Drive This Fall
The Mammoth Lakes Basin and surrounding Eastern Sierra valleys offer some of the most photogenic fall color reflections anywhere in California. Here are five lakes worth building a day around.
Rock Creek Lake
The canyon’s namesake lake is often overlooked for the Mosquito Flat Trailhead, but Rock Creek Lake is one of the more beautiful bodies of water in the Eastern Sierra. Situated at 9,698 feet, the aspen trees that surround Rock Creek Lake will start to show fall colors earlier than lower elevation lakes. And the drive to get here is scenic too. Bring your stand up paddleboard, or just enjoy the view from the shore.
If you are in the mood for a hike, check out the Tamarack Lakes Trail, which is one of our favorite hikes off the beaten path.
Convict Lake
With the geologically colorful volcanic rock as a backdrop, Convict Lake has more than just fall colors. It is one of the most stunning and easily accessible lakes you’ll find in the Sierra Nevada. The eastern shore has a picnic area and an easy 2-mile hiking trail loops around the lake.
The water sparkles under the towering Mount Morison and Laurel and Bloody Mountains and reflects the aspens along the shore. Pick up the trail at the end of the road on the southeast shore near the picnic area. The Convict Lake Resort Marina also has boat launching and rentals if you want to see the views from the water.
Sotcher Lake
Located in the Reds Meadow Valley, Sotcher is a glacial carved lake surrounded by tall wild grasses, aspens, and granite. A 1.5-mile nature trail loops around Sotcher Lake and climbs over a granite buttress that offers a bird’s eye perspective of the lake. There is a picnic area with benches and barbecues close to the parking area and a small sandy beach on the east side of the lake.
It’s a popular spot for sightseeing, as well as fly fishing. Bring your float tube or canoe to explore from the water. If you are going to make your way to Sotcher Lake for fall color viewing, you might as well spend the whole day in the valley and enjoy the area. Some of our favorite adventures in Reds Meadow include hiking to Rainbow Falls and Devils Postpile and having lunch at the Mule House Café.
Note: Reds Meadow access is subject to seasonal road restrictions. Check the USFS website for current conditions before planning your visit.
Lake George
The entire Mammoth Lakes Basin lights up in the autumn season, but our favorite for enjoying the colors is Lake George. At 9,026 feet, it is the highest road accessible lake in the basin. For that reason, the foliage might start to turn earlier than the lower lakes. Either way, George has a rugged alpine backdrop including a view of the iconic Crystal Crag that is sure to inspire photographers.
A trail departs from the east side of the lake and eventually makes its way to TJ and Barrett Lakes. To loop around Lake George stay right at the trail junction and continue on the footpath path for a relatively easy stroll through the foliage. To experience the views from the water, rent a boat from the little Lake George store and marina.
Silver Lake
The June Lake Loop is known for its dramatic beauty in the fall season and this region just north of Mammoth Lakes is worth a visit. With Carson Peak towering overhead, aspen trees and rugged mountains surround Silver Lake.
There are a few spots to picnic on the shore, but the best way to truly see the view is from a canoe on the water. Stop by the Silver Lake Resort and rent a boat for the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the lakes show fall colors in the Eastern Sierra?
Higher elevation lakes like Rock Creek Lake and Lake George typically show color first, starting in late September. Lower lakes like Silver Lake and Convict Lake may peak closer to mid-October.
Which lake has the best fall color reflection near Mammoth Lakes?
Lake George and Convict Lake are both standouts for reflections—Lake George for its rugged alpine backdrop and Crystal Crag, Convict Lake for its dramatic volcanic rock walls and towering peaks.
Can you kayak or paddleboard on these lakes in fall?
Yes. Rock Creek Lake, Convict Lake, and Sotcher Lake all allow non-motorized watercraft. Silver Lake Resort offers boat rentals. Fall conditions can be calm and glassy in the morning, making it one of the best times of year to be on the water.
Is Sotcher Lake accessible in fall?
Sotcher Lake is located in Reds Meadow Valley, which is subject to seasonal road restrictions. Check current access conditions before planning your visit.
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