Sherwin Lakes Trail 3.0 mi

Trail adopted by: Libby and Otto • Trail maintained by: RealEstateInMammoth.com

  • With its relatively lower-elevation trailhead in the aspen groves and old-growth Jeffrey pines off Sherwin Creek Road near the motocross track, this trail is an excellent option in the spring and early summer, when the lakes are full and clear and the wildflowers are blooming. In just 3 miles the trail climbs steeply in a series of switchbacks to a small plateau and a pair of small lakes beneath the high peaks of the Sherwin Range, affording wide vistas back across the town of Mammoth Lakes and the Long Valley Caldera.

  • With its relatively lower-elevation trailhead in the aspen groves and old-growth Jeffrey pines off Sherwin Creek Road near the motocross track, this trail is an excellent option in the spring and early summer, when the lakes are full and clear and the wildflowers are blooming. In just 3 miles the trail climbs steeply in a series of switchbacks to a small plateau and a pair of small lakes beneath the high peaks of the Sherwin Range, affording wide vistas back across the town of Mammoth Lakes and the Long Valley Caldera.

  • Trail Activities

    • Equestrian
    • Hiking

    Public Services

    Trail Information

    • Typical grade 9% - (Maximum 23% for 34 feet)
    • Typical cross slope 2% - (Maximum 7% for 24 feet)
    • Typical width at trail surface 3 feet
    • Sand
    • This trail has quite a few steps, waterbars, and root steps.
    • A standard ramp is 8%. Conditions subject to change.

Reviews

July 27, 2016

“I hiked the trail in May 2016. The accent is not too bad since there are lots of switchbacks. The views going up are great since a fire a few years back cleared out some of the trees, and the lake at the top is a classic small mountain lake.”

Tim, Washington, DC

June 1, 2015

“Gorgeous hike. I am pretty out of shape and although I did get a good cardiovascular workout, I wouldn't say it was a hard hike for me. The prize at the top was worth the effort!”

Kristen, Mammoth Lakes, CA

June 15, 2013

“I hiked this trail by myself on May 19th. I am out of shape and was unused to the higher elevation. It was worth it... Beautiful scenery and came across other people so felt comfortable. I am a photographer and was also able to get some beautiful photos. Well worth it!”

Tracy T, California

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Related Destinations

Related Destinations

Destination Activities and Services
Sherwin Lakes Fishing

Related Experiences

Related Experiences

Experience Rating Length (mi) Surface Duration
Equestrian Trail Riding the Sherwin Lakes Trail 5.1 Soil Half day
Equestrian Trail Riding the Valentine Lakes Trail 9.1 Soil Full day
Hiking to Sherwin Lakes 4.3 Soil Less than 4 hours
How to get involved Local recreation resources Experiences and ratings Finding your way around the MLTS Trail System Projects