Minaret Creek Trail

Minaret Creek Trail is a 15-mile out-and-back singletrack trail. This trail is located near Mammoth Lakes, California, and leads to Minaret Lake, a large alpine lake in the Ritter Mountain Range (a subrange of the Sierra Nevada Mountains). Featuring pine-shaded forests, flowing waterfalls, and beautiful meadows, this trail is challenging and rewarding. This trail is ideal for trail runners, hikers, mountain climbers, peak baggers, and backpackers. 

Starting from The Devils Postpile Visitor Center (located at stop number 6 on the Mammoth Lakes Shuttle), head south towards a bridge over the MIddle Fork San Joaquin River. Cross the bridge and   follow signs for the John Muir Trail (JMT). Continue north on the JMT for about 1.5 miles. Keep an eye out for another junction. North of Johnston Meadow and Johnston Lake, the Minaret Creek Trail leaves the JMT. As the JMT turns right, the Minaret Creek Trail follows along Minaret Creek northwest. 

Along Minaret Creek Trail, both the climb and the spectacular views increase. As the trail steepens, pine trees give way to giant spires and rocky peaks. Eventually, you will reach Minaret Lake's pristine waters. Spend some time admiring the views and pristine waters of the lake while walking the trail along its shores. 

Although this route can easily be completed in a day, it also makes for a magnificent backpacking trip with plenty of scenic backcountry campsites (see information below regarding permits for overnight camping).

TRANSPORTATION

Mammoth Lakes Free Mountain Shuttle: https://www.mammothmountain.com/transportation/free-mountain-shuttle 
 

PERMIT INFORMATION

• No permits are required for day use.

• Permits are required for overnight camping and backpacking trips and can be obtained at www.recreation.gov.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center: 1-(760) 924-5500

Mammoth Lakes Trail Systems: https://www.mammothtrails.org/ 

Inyo National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recarea?recid=20540