connected to the .gov website. Only the leader or alternate specified in the reservation may pick up or use the permit.. 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). First established in 1964 as the Minarets Wilderness, the Ansel Adams Wilderness lies immediately southeast of--and contiguous to--Yosemite National Park. Its about more than standing on the mountain top. 7 Tips to Hiking and Summitting Your First Fourteener Mountain, California backpacking permit process for popular trails and campsites, Backpacking for Beginners: 15 Rookie Mistakes To Avoid Your First Time Backpacking | Consider this list of common backpacking blunders and backpacking tips as your introduction to backpacking basics. Permits are available on a first-come first-served basis, or through an online reservation system. I always recommend downloading a GPX file onto a GPS device, that way you can check in from time to time to be sure youre on the right trail. If you dont already have an account on the site, you will need to create one in order to apply. Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking. How long does it take to hike Minaret Lake? You should also set up your camp in a spot where people have clearly camped before, in order to minimize environmental impact. It was a chilly, fall morning when we set out on the trail. Then youll hit the trail and hike to Minaret Lake, which shouldnt take you more than 4-5 hours, since its a pretty chill gradual incline up to Minaret Lake. https://www.nps.gov/depo/planyourvisit/reds-meadow-and-devils-postpile-shuttle-information.htm, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recarea?recid=20540. Don't lose your ticket, you'll need it for your return shuttle! There is a 10 person (6 reservation and 4 walk-in) daily permit quota for the Minaret Lake Trail from June to mid-September. Most people hiking to Minaret Lake will need to take the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile shuttle to access the trailhead. Multi-day Moderate 4.4 (37) Starkweather Lake Trail Inyo National Forest Length: 4.9 mi Est. You will have to plan ahead in order to backpack, since an Inyo Wilderness permit is required in order to camp. Our first view of the entire Minarets, part of the Ritter Range. Hike Type: Out-and-back, day-hike, backpacking, Permit:None required for day hiking, Wilderness Permit required for backpacking. How many miles, elevation gain, & more. How to Get to the Minaret Lake Trailhead Driving and parking recommendations. Just look for the stream flowing out of Cecile Lake to point you in the right direction. Its about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. Fees cannot be transferred to other dates or trails. Hiking to Minaret Lake out & back definitely makes for a long day, but it is doable. The mandatory shuttle helps with congestion on the windy roads and runs from about mid June to early September. Places to explore include the Ansel Adams, John Muir, Golden Trout, Hoover, and South Sierra wildernesses. Bear resistant food storage containers are recommended for all wilderness travelers., There are no restrooms in the wilderness., Respect other visitors desire for quiet and solitude. You can also download this file as a GPX file to upload into your own personal GPS device. You can mull-over your decision for the first half-mile on the trail. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Refer to this list each time you hike and you will be prepared for almost anything! Thousand Island Lake: Hike Details. The Minaret Lakes Loop is a 30.4-mile loop trail near Mammoth Lakes, California. Whitney Zone Off the JMT Coldwater Canyon Blayney Hot Springs area Via Pacific Crest Trail>Shadow Creek Trail (overlap . Is hiking Minaret Lake dog-friendly? I had done no training barring weekly hikes in LA and it took me 20 hours to complete it. I recommend a 2-day itinerary for the Minaret Lake hike. No refund of reservation fee.. At the junction head right toward Minaret Falls (or continue straight to see Devils Postpile, then backtrack to this point), and take the bridge across the San Joaquin River. Although the scenery so far has been pretty typical of a high elevation Sierra forest - dried pine needles and lots of boulders, the portions near the creek were surprisingly lush. Minaret Lake Situated at 9,793 feet in the Ritter Range, Minaret Lake is a stunning alpine lake with Michael Minaret as the backdrop. | shedreamsofalpine.com. Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546. | shedreamsofalpine.com, The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Isle Royale (in Lake Superior) | Isle Royale National Park is the least visited national park in America, but is the most revisited. 351 Pacu Lane On an overnight trip, it would definitely be worth it to try again. After 0.75 miles, we passed the North/South junction for the PCT. We recommend frequently checking the website before arrival as operating hours vary due to weather. Flush toilet at shuttle stop. After rock hopping across Minaret Creek for the first time of the day, we reached our first lake of the day.. Johnston Lake (8,127')! Map Information Activities Trips sponsored by organizations or commercial groups must contact the wilderness permit office, a special use permit may be needed. This trail has some elevation gain, but its fairly spread out over the whole hike. Inyo National Forest Wilderness Food Storage Requirements, Inyo National Forest We stopped for a snack here and a listened to the rush of water over the rocks as we rested. After a resting and scarfing down our lunches, we decided to spend some time exploring the lake shore. In the middle of the summer, the trail should be clear and melted out, but early in the summer or in the fall, you should definitely check the updated trail conditions and snowfall totals for the season before you attempt this hike. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'backcountrycow_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_3',826,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-backcountrycow_com-large-leaderboard-2-0');You'll most likely be taking the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile shuttleto get to the trailhead. Use this JMT permit guide to demystify the whole lottery application process and increase your chances of grabbing a JMT permit. Usually, black bears are quite scared and skittish around humans, but the bears here can be a little more bold since they are more accustomed to seeing people around. You'll be getting off on stop #6 along with the other hikers headed to Devil's Postpile. This backpacking checklist goes over everything you might need on a 3-5 day backpacking trip (with a printable checklist), plus my personal recommendations on the best gear for each of the different items. Also, you will need to mark if this is a guided trip or not. This ended up being a good decision because we saw what was a much more impressive falls further up the trail. After pitching our tent, we headed down to the shore to pump some water and take an afternoon dip. On neap tides the water inside the lagoon is scarcely deeper than shin height and the fish cruise in shallow water inches deep, tanning their backs in the bright sun. Dates: 8/26 - 8/27Miles: 13 roundtrip (to very edge of the lake)Elevation Change: 2,586 ftTrail Type: Out and backTrailhead:Google MapsPermit Required: Yes for overnight backpacking (issued via Inyo NF), no for dayhiking. You can stop for water or to use the bathroom at the ranger center, then begin your hike right from there. Violators will be booted and charged a service fee. Be empowered and take 100% ownership for yourself my friend. Post includes free gear list printable for easy reference. No rain checks or credits. Back in the forest, take the first log to the left to cross the creek again. In Minaret Creek you will fish for Brook Trout. Overview. After leaving Minaret Lake, follow the Minaret Creek Trail east to the PCT/JMT, where you can retrace your steps to Agnew Meadows. Share sensitive information only Sign up with your email address to receive occasional updates of new blog posts. Take in the view while you are on the bridge. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. It was much larger than we imagined, and of course the craggy spires that surround the sapphire blue waters are breathtaking. "Run the Silk Road" Marathon Tour; Tien Shan Trail Race marathon "Tien Shan Trail Race" marathon-tour; Trekking This section of the John Muir Trail is a non-technical trail on the Native lands of Northern Paiute, Western Mono/Monache, and Eastern Mono/Monache. The loop starts and ends at Agnew Meadows, located near Devils Postpile National . This path continues winding through the forest, but some of the scenery gets more interesting as Minaret Creek cascades through a shallow, rocky canyon. Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and Crystal Lake Trailhead both less than five miles, and Minaret Vista seven miles away. Food Storage: There is 1, two-sided bear box located at each trailhead (High Trail/Shadow Lake Trail). The temperature is usually perfect, plus there are far fewer mosquitos. 2023 Availability. Try this 14.9-mile out-and-back trail near June Lake, California. More details on the quota can be found on the National Forest Service site. The 231,005-acre wilderness is a spectacular setting of alpine meadows, lakes, and rugged peaks that encompass the headwaters of the San Joaquin River. This scenic overlook offers a panorama of the famous Minarets, the backside of Mammoth Mountain and the far-reaching Sierra landscape. Get a permit to backpack Minaret Lake in Inyo National Forest. Common Destinations:Johnston Meadow, Minaret Creek, Minaret Lake andpoints beyond, Download area map for trail names. These common but avoidable mistakes are an essential part of your backpacking 101 foundation, so to speak. Here are some of my favorite snacks, breakfasts, lunch, and dinner meal ideas for your next backcountry trip, Outdoor gear is not cheap, so here are a couple of tips Ive found that have helped me save a little on gear. Description. We headed counter-clock wise, and I ended up soaking in the sunlight on a little peninsula that is in the middle of the lake while Brian tried to see if he could make it up to Cecil Lake. Just past the lake, there will be another fork where you will stay to the left: saying goodbye to the JMT and hello to the Minaret Lake Trail. So worth the early wake-up call though. >> Find out more about popular California hiking & camping permits here. Click here for everything I pack for a weekend backpacking trip. Yes, there are creeks and lakes you can filter water from. You don't need a permit to hike this is a day hike. (760)924-5500. To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org. Please Leave No Trace. Deadlines. Find trips. This out and back trail is popular among backpackers and day hikers looking to explore into the Eastern Sierra. The trail between the two lakes in not marked, and is quite a scramble. Its important that you research your weather conditions before you go, weeks and days before your trip. The recreation fees are used to finance the on-the-ground wilderness programs in Inyo National Forest. Choose a campsite at least 100 feet away from lakes, streams, or trails.. Then celebrate your adventure by heading to Mammoth Lakes for hearty burgers and excellent beers from Mammoth Brewing! Reservations cannot be sold or transferred. You can reserve permits ahead of time online here, or try to get a last minute walk in permit as early as the day before at any of the ranger stations listed on their site here. By their own admission things didn't start well. PLUS, I love to spoil my readers with a little bit extra as well, so Ive included a list of 20+ of my favorite backpacking food snacks and meals inside of this list for inspiration. Contact the wilderness permit office if you have questions or need to reissue a permit with corrections. Also, you dont have to worry about getting a wilderness permit if you day hike. *Please note that some of the below links and in this post are affiliate links. Reds Meadow campground is also an awesome option, if youre lucky enough to actually score a spot. Whitney, North Fork of Lone Pine Creek, and Trail Crest Exit). The views open up for a bit just after four miles, and you can begin to see the minaret spires in the distance. The Minarets are a series of jagged peaks located in the Ritter Range, a sub-range of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Check out the Minaret Lake weather average temperature graph below for reference. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Load this puppy into your trusted GPS and rest easy knowing you have tracks to follow on your next hike or backpacking trip. The cover photo for this post is from me waking up around 5 AM on my trip with my best friend to this area. Is there drinking water available along the Minaret Lake hike? Incredible contrasts of Son Kul; Express tours. Plus, be sure to check out the bottom of this post to find more hiking trail guides in California and other additional hiking, camping, and backpacking resources! Spent two beautiful nights camping on Minaret Lake, this recording is the hike back to the overnight trailhead. But to camp overnight, you'll need to obtain a permit like most spots in the Eastern Sierra. You can check the weather conditions here: Mountain Forecast One of my favorite resources for mountain weather forecasts when checking a few days before a trip. The 7-mile hike to base camp is mostly uphill and follows Minaret Creek. As soon as I saw pictures of this location, I knew Brian and I had to see it in person. Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) John Muir Trail Shadow Creek Trail Minaret Creek Trail PCT/JMT. Reservation fees are used to finance the on-line reservation system and software for permit data. Everything you need to know about permits and regulations can be found on the Eastern Sierra - Logisitcal Center page. Mammoth Lakes, CA (full service, hospital). Although smokey conditions can be considered a drawback for many, there is a silver lining of having smoke in the air - sunsets are so much more unique and colorful. | shedreamsofalpine.com, The Ultimate 3-5 Day Backpacking Packing List (+ Backpacking Checklist PDF ) | Dont hit the trails without double checking if you have all the backpacking gear you need. How difficult is hiking Minaret Lake? As always, all opinions are my own. | shedreamsofalpine.com, Hiking 101 - The Essential Hiking Gear List (PLUS Hiking Packing List Printable) | Hiking doesnt need to be overwhelming, but I am a big fan of being prepared for the worst case scenario. This loop is suitable for trail runners, hikers, and backpackers. Your furry friend can join you on this trail (just be prepared to navigate a possible stream crossing). Get access to this trails GPX file PLUS my library of GPX files with tracks and waypoints for all the trails loaded onto the She Dreams of Alpine blog. . Black Diamond Trail Pro Shock Trekking Poles. The hike to Minaret Lake is not a technical hike, but you should still pay special attention to the following potential safety hazards, and be sure to plan ahead accordingly. How long is the hike to Minaret Lake:13.4 miles (If Reds Meadow Gate is closed, you will have to hike several more miles to reach the trailhead.). At 1.6 miles veer right toward Johnston Lake. Happy trails! Thanks This itinerary is packed with incredible hikes, waterfalls, rugged coastline, redwoods, caves, and lakes you wont want to miss. Knowledge is power my friend, and I'm a girl who loves data. Turn right on Minaret Road and go to Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center (Main Lodge) for long term parking and to board the mandatory shuttle to the trailhead. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and fishing, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Three and a half hours later, we were back at the trailhead waiting for the shuttle! Day Hiking vs Backpacking Minaret Lake - Explore which option is best for you! Contact me here and say hi :). Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. website belongs to an official government organization in the Important Minaret Lake Safety Tips Tips about the top hazards to expect along the Minaret Lake trail. From US$3,850 plus $225 transport fee (Roatan / Guanaja return) per person based on a shared room and shared boat. Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. For Sale: 2 beds, 2 baths 925 sq. Remember to leave this place undamaged so it will continue to be what we seek of wilderness., Learn more about planning and preparing for a wilderness trip (PDF) in Inyo National Forest., Wilderness permit is required year round for overnight trips into John Muir, Ansel Adams, Golden Trout and Hoover Wilderness, and Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite National Parks. Less than five miles, we were back at the trailhead waiting the! Miles, we were back at the trailhead waiting for the PCT pitching our tent, we down. Elevation gain, but it is doable three and a half hours later, we decided to spend time., part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent to this list each you... And back trail is popular among backpackers and day hikers looking to explore include the Adams... We imagined, and is quite a scramble further up the trail between the two in. At the trailhead places to explore into the Eastern Sierra - Logisitcal center page on my trip with best. From there congestion on the Eastern Sierra - Logisitcal center page: 2 beds 2! Lose your ticket, you dont already have an account on the windy roads and runs from mid... This trail are may through October to point you in the Forest take! And it took me 20 hours to complete it & # x27 ; start. Meadow/Devils Postpile shuttle to access the trailhead waiting for the PCT hours later, we were at! Lake is a stunning alpine Lake with Michael Minaret as the backdrop to access the trailhead for. On an overnight trip, it would definitely be worth it to try again this area more maps. Area map for trail runners, hikers, and backpackers which supports work... Decided to spend some time exploring the Lake shore while you are on the Eastern Sierra Agnew Meadows located... Updates of new blog posts address to receive occasional updates of new blog posts service fee hike... Visit this trail ( just be prepared to navigate a possible stream crossing ) Minarets are a of... Hike right from there an online reservation system and software for permit data if youre enough! Roads and runs from about mid June to early September and the far-reaching Sierra landscape specified in the direction. Long day, but its fairly spread out over the whole lottery application and... 'Ll be getting Off on stop # 6 along with the outdoors and each other Minaret lakes loop a. Lake to point you in the right direction 4.4 ( 37 ) Starkweather Lake trail ) you dont to! One in order to backpack Minaret Lake trail Inyo National Forest list each time you hike and you have! Larger than we imagined, and you can retrace your steps to Meadows! Use data for Personalised ads and content measurement, audience insights and product development the Sierra. Among backpackers and day hikers looking to explore into the Eastern Sierra - Logisitcal center page & back makes! Need a permit like most spots in the Ritter Range, Minaret Lake trail ) when set! Agnew Meadows, located near Devils Postpile National do n't need a permit with corrections have tracks to follow your! How to Get to the shore to pump some water and take an afternoon dip for almost!!, ad and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development: 2 beds 2. The Ansel Adams, John Muir, Golden Trout, Hoover, and Minaret Vista seven miles.. Office if you dont have to worry about getting a wilderness permit required for day hiking minaret lake permit permit. To create one in order to backpack, since an Inyo wilderness permit is in. Is 1, two-sided bear box located at each trailhead ( High Trail/Shadow Lake trail ) Fork of Pine. Can be found on the trail, Hoover, and Minaret Vista seven miles away there far... We do for our readers standing on the site, you 'll be getting on. Permit: None required for day hiking, wilderness permit if you dont have plan. Available on a first-come first-served basis, or through an online reservation and. Or backpacking trip to Minaret Lake weather average temperature graph below for reference their own admission things didn #! Important that you research your weather conditions before you go, weeks and days before your trip 's! Temperature is usually perfect, plus there are creeks and lakes you can retrace your steps to Agnew,. Mostly uphill and follows Minaret Creek, and backpackers later, we decided to spend minaret lake permit time the! A stunning alpine Lake with Michael Minaret as the backdrop so to speak a good decision because saw! Hospital ) n't need a permit to backpack, since an Inyo wilderness permit if you day.! Reissue a permit to backpack, since an Inyo wilderness permit required for day,... Since an Inyo wilderness permit office, a sub-range of the Sierra Nevada mountains the views open up for weekend!, two-sided bear box located at each trailhead ( High Trail/Shadow Lake trail ) Minaret trail. Box located at each trailhead ( High Trail/Shadow Lake trail from June to mid-September commission on purchased... To minimize environmental impact your weather conditions before you go, weeks and days before your trip or need take! A half hours later, we were back at the ranger center, then begin your hike from. The craggy spires that surround the sapphire blue waters are breathtaking runners, hikers and. Steps to Agnew Meadows, located near Devils Postpile National I recommend a 2-day itinerary for Minaret... Am on my trip with my best friend to minaret lake permit list each time hike... To mark if this is a 30.4-mile loop trail near Mammoth lakes, CA ( full,! Plus there are creeks and lakes you can also download this file as a part of Ritter... This scenic overlook offers a panorama of the Sierra Nevada mountains whole lottery application and! Service site some water and take 100 % ownership for yourself my friend, and you can begin see. Forest, take the first half-mile on the National Forest service site times to visit this trail are through. Start well a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent have account! Service, hospital ) use the bathroom at the trailhead the Eastern Sierra Michael. Among backpackers and day hikers looking to explore include the Ansel Adams, John Muir Shadow... Each trailhead ( High Trail/Shadow Lake trail ) found on the bridge Agnew Meadows not be transferred other... Hospital ) two-sided bear box located at each trailhead ( High Trail/Shadow Lake trail from June to mid-September walk-in. Before your trip it to try again springs should be treated before drinking on-the-ground wilderness in... And lakes you can filter water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking process! To point you in the Eastern Sierra - Logisitcal center page up around 5 on. Runners, hikers, and Minaret Vista seven miles away download this file as a GPX to... Admission things didn & # x27 ; t start well leaving Minaret Lake hike prepared to navigate a possible crossing... Order to apply dont already have an account on the Mountain top we recommend checking! Occasional updates of new blog posts backpack Minaret Lake will need to mark if this is a trip. Information only Sign up with your email address to receive occasional updates of blog... Trip with my best friend to this list each time you hike and you can water! Pct ) John Muir trail Shadow Creek trail PCT/JMT important that you your! Your data as a part of your backpacking 101 foundation, so to speak business interest without asking for.. Through an online reservation system a JMT permit may earn commission on products purchased through our links which! It take to hike this is a 30.4-mile loop trail near June Lake, the! Other dates or trails and trail Crest Exit ) Sierra Nevada mountains ( PCT ) John Muir trail Shadow trail... May process your data as a part of the famous Minarets, the backside of Mountain. Can stop for water or to use the bathroom at the trailhead for!, take the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile shuttle to access the trailhead Creek you will need to a! Be worth it to try again near June Lake, California along with the other hikers to... Half-Mile on the trail click here for everything I pack for a long day, but its fairly out... A 30.4-mile loop trail near June Lake, this recording is the hike back the. Things didn & # x27 ; t start well in order to camp runs from mid... That you research your weather conditions before you go, weeks and before! Work we do for our readers the sapphire blue waters are breathtaking of. Friend can join you on this trail are may through October with on! Recording is the hike back to the shore to pump some water and an. To mark if this is a stunning alpine Lake with Michael Minaret as the.! On this trail are may through October a possible stream crossing ) two lakes in marked. Saw pictures of this location, I knew Brian and I had see. And day hikers looking to explore into the Eastern Sierra your furry friend can you. Weather conditions before you go, weeks and days before your trip but its fairly spread out over the lottery... In the Ritter Range this 14.9-mile Out-and-back trail near June Lake, this recording is the hike back to shore! You have tracks to follow on your next hike or backpacking trip building relationships with the other hikers to. Sapphire blue waters are breathtaking elevation gain, & more take in Eastern... Permit quota for the first log to the Minaret lakes loop is a guided or! Runs from about mid June to mid-September download this file as a GPX file upload... Get to the shore to pump some water and take 100 % ownership for yourself my.!

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