Minarets Lake Loop

The Minaret Lakes Loop is a 30.4-mile loop trail near Mammoth Lakes, California. It is located in the Sierra Nevada and provides stunning views of the Minarets, a series of jagged peaks in the Ritter Mountain Range, as well as numerous alpine lakes and lush meadows. This loop is suitable for trail runners, hikers, and backpackers. 

Beginning on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), the loop follows the Middle Fork San Joaquin River for approximately 5.7 miles. There will be a trail junction where you will find the John Muir Trail (JMT) separating from the PCT. Follow signs for the JMT and trek north through lush meadows and pine forests. Among the lakes featured in this section are Johnston Lake, Vivian Lake, Rosalie Lake, and Shadow Lake. 

Just north of Shadow Lake (where the PCT/JMT converge) the Minaret Lakes Loop heads west along Shadow Creek Trail. Continue along the east side of Ediza Lake, Iceberg Lake, and Cecile Lake. The trail eventually leads to Minaret Lake, situated at the base of the Minarets, a group of jagged peaks within the Ritter Mountain Range (a subrange of the Sierra Nevada). Take time to enjoy the views as well as the pristine waters of Minaret Lake while walking along its shores. After leaving Minaret Lake, follow the Minaret Creek Trail east to the PCT/JMT, where you can retrace your steps to Agnew Meadows.

TRAILS OVERVIEW

Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) → John Muir Trail → Shadow Creek Trail → Minaret Creek Trail → PCT/JMT

AGNEW MEADOWS TRAILHEAD AMENITIES

Trash, bathrooms, picnic tables, and bear boxes. 

BUS SHUTTLE INFORMATION: https://www.nps.gov/depo/planyourvisit/reds-meadow-and-devils-postpile-shuttle-information.htm. 

WATER

Water must be treated before consumption and can be collected from various streams and lakes. 

OVERNIGHT CAMPING PERMITS

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

SAMPLE BACKPACKING ITINERARY (3 DAYS)

Day 1 - Agnew Meadows to Rosalie Lake (12 miles)

Day 2 - Rosalie Lake to Minaret Lake (7 miles)

Day 3 - Minaret Lake to Agnew Meadows (11.4 miles)

CONSIDERATIONS

• Some cross country sections along unmaintained trails that may be difficult to see and not marked well.

• No camping at Shadow Lake or along Shadow Creek between Shadow Lake and Ediza Lake.

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