Hiking in the Mammoth Lakes Basin

December 23, 2025

The Mammoth Lakes Basin is one of the most beautiful corners of the Eastern Sierra, a high-alpine playground of pine forests, jagged peaks, wildflowers, and crystal-clear lakes. Located just minutes from town, the Lakes Basin offers quick access to dozens of trailheads and over 100 miles of designated routes leading into the John Muir Wilderness and deeper into the Sierra Nevada. Because parking is limited in summer, many visitors use the free Lakes Basin Trolley to explore the area. The shuttle stops at major trailheads throughout the Lakes Basin, making it easy to get around without worrying about driving or finding a parking spot.

NOTE: These hikes are all accessible via the Lakes Basin Trolley during summer months.

The Eastern Sierra Transit Authority (ESTA) Lakes Basin Trolley offers transportation to numerous trailheads in the Mammoth Lakes Basin.

What To Expect On Hikes In The Mammoth Lakes Basin

With more than a dozen lakes, miles of forested paths, and dramatic mountain scenery in every direction, the Mammoth Lakes Basin is a go-to destination for hikers of all levels. Trails vary from short forest strolls to steep climbs into the high country, and many connect to longer wilderness routes.

Before heading out, stop by the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center for maps, trail updates, and wilderness permit information.

Trailheads In The Mammoth Lakes Basin

The Lakes Basin Trolley (Orange Line) provides easy access to these trailheads. Visitors can hop on and off at stops throughout Lakes Basin.

Stop by the Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center to purchase a map of hiking trails in the Mammoth Lakes Basin.

Trolley Stop 90 – Panorama Dome Trailhead

From this trailhead, you can access Panorama Dome Trail.

Trolley Stop 192 – Twin Lakes Trailhead

From this trailhead, you can access Seven Lakes Point Loop trail, Mammoth Mountain – Mammoth Pass Trail and Dragon’s Back Trail.

Trolley Stop 93 – Mammoth Rock

From this trailhead, you can access Mammoth Rock Trail.

Trolley Stop 96 – Coldwater Creek Trailhead

From this trailhead, you can access Arrowhead Lake Trail, Coldwater – George Trail, Duck Pass Trail, Emerald Lake – Skelton Lake Trail, Heart Lake Trail, Mammoth Pack Station Trail, Pika Lake Trail, Sky Meadows Trail and Woods Lake Trail.

Trolley Stop 97 – Lake George Trailhead

From this trailhead, you can access Coldwater – George Trail, Crystal Lake Trail, Mammoth Crest Trail and TJ Lake Loop trail.

Trolley Stop 200 – Horseshoe Lake Trailhead

From this trailhead, you can access Horseshoe Lake Loop trail, Mammoth Pass – Crater Meadow Trail, Mammoth Pass Trail, McLeod Lake Spur trail and Rim Trail

Getting To The Mammoth Lakes Basin

By Shuttle

Getting to the Lakes Basin is easy and taking the free Lakes Basin Trolley (Orange Line) from The Village at Mammoth relieves the burden of driving and parking. Visitors can hop on and off the shuttle at any of the Trolley Stops throughout the Mammoth Lakes Basin.

By Car

The Mammoth Lakes Basin is also accessible by car, by taking the Lake Mary Road. Please note that parking is limited in many areas.

Author

Meghan Miranda

Meghan has been living and playing in Mammoth Lakes since 2016. She enjoys any outdoor activities that her dogs can tag along for. See more of Meghan's adventures on her blog Meg Moves Mountains.