Hiking & Backpacking

Hiking in the Eastern Sierra is spectacular year-round. In spring, the sharp and craggy granite peaks of the Sierra Nevada Range form a dramatic backdrop for meadows brightly colored by wildflowers.

In summer, you'll find secret alpine lakes, lush aspen-lined streams, and forested hideaways tucked away in the mountains. In fall, early snow in the high country contrasts beautifully with the vibrant golds and oranges of aspens and willows.

Mammoth Lakes sits inside two million acres of the Inyo National Forest, with hundreds of miles of trails covering every difficulty level—from short, easy walks to multi-day backpacking routes into the Ansel Adams Wilderness and along the Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail. Many trailheads are accessible by the free town shuttle, so you don't need a car to get out on the trail. Browse the full trail network at mammothtrails.org.

All hiking in Mammoth Lakes starts at elevation—town sits at 7,880 ft and most trailheads start above 8,500 ft. First-time visitors should read our high altitude tips before heading out.

Below you'll find the best places to hike and backpack in Mammoth Lakes.

Where To Go Hiking & Backpacking In Mammoth Lakes

Explore the Mammoth Lakes Basin

Although there isn’t a lake actually called “Mammoth Lake,” the Mammoth Lakes Basin is home to more than 100 alpine lakes, with five main gems that stand out: Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake Mamie, Lake George, and Horseshoe Lake. Just minutes from the town of Mammoth Lakes, these lakes offer everything from fishing and kayaking to hiking and picnicking.

Hiking on Mammoth Mountain

Mammoth Lakes is surrounded by two million acres of Inyo National Forest, offering access to scenic alpine landscapes, volcanic terrain, and hiking trails for every experience level. Mammoth Mountain is one of the area’s most popular summer hiking destinations, with trails leading to panoramic summit views, Minaret overlooks, and high-elevation wilderness scenery.

Hiking Just Outside of Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes is surrounded by two million acres of Inyo National Forest with dozens of hiking trails. Trailheads just outside of Mammoth Lakes offer even more opportunities to explore the mountains, lakes, creeks and forest of the Eastern Sierra.

Best Bets: An Introduction to Family Hiking Around Mammoth Lakes

Hiking is a favorite family pastime in Mammoth Lakes for locals and visitors! It’s a great way to get out and experience our amazing landscape

Backpacking Near Mammoth Lakes for Beginners

Backpacking is a combination of hiking and camping.

7 Easy Hikes in and Around Mammoth Lakes

Mammoth Lakes has a hiking trail for every kind of explorer—including those who like to take things slow.

Summer Activities

Two people paddle along a lake in kayaks. The lake is surrounded by trees and a mountain is visible over the tree line

Mountain biker riding along a trail

Inspiration For Summer

woman smiling holding a fish on a boat

Boating, Kayaking & Paddle Boarding

Girl swimming in blue water lake off a rocky shore in Mammoth Lakes CA

Horseback Riding

Horseback riders on a trail through a green meadow with mountains in the background.

Activity Updates in Mammoth Lakes