Hikes in Inyo National Forest
Activities in Inyo National Forest
Inyo National Forest's biodiversity and imposing mountainous terrain make it an ideal wilderness area for hiking! At an impressive 800,000 acres, Inyo National Forest boasts an abundance of routes for all ability levels. Leading you to picturesque lakes, up the summits of grandiose mountains, and alongside charming creeks, Inyo National Forest's hiking network is incredible in its scenery and accessibility.
Since the options for hikes within Inyo National Forest are so copious, we have made a list of some of our favorite hiking routes. While every route stated below is incredible, this list just scratches the surface of the trail possibilities within Inyo National Forest!
What’s New in 2027
- Mount Whitney needs a permit every day of the year, won mostly through a lottery. A wilderness permit is required for the Mount Whitney Trail, featured below, whether you go for the day or overnight. During the quota season, roughly May to early November, permits are issued through the Recreation.gov Mount Whitney lottery: applications open in February, results post in mid-March, and any unclaimed dates are released in late April. There is a small application fee plus a per-person charge. Plan months ahead, and have a backup hike in mind if you miss out.
- A mandatory shuttle serves Devils Postpile and Reds Meadow in summer. To reach Devils Postpile, Rainbow Falls and the Reds Meadow Valley trailheads, you generally must ride the Reds Meadow shuttle, which runs roughly mid-June to early September; private vehicles are not allowed into the valley while it operates. Buy the shuttle ticket and check the current-season dates before you go.
- Snow sets the season, and the high trails open late. Most of the alpine routes are best from June to October, and the higher lakes and passes can hold snow into July. The Eastern Sierra is also bear country, so use the bear lockers at trailheads and carry a canister on overnight trips. On hot days at lower elevations, carry plenty of water, as the east side is dry and exposed.
The Best Hikes In Inyo National Forest
- Mount Whitney Trail - The piece de resistance of Inyo National Forest, the Mount Whitney Trail is an incredibly challenging route that boasts amazing sightlines of the surrounding Eastern Sierra Nevada landscape.
- Devil’s Postpile Loop Short and easy, this loop visits the extraordinary Devil’s Postpile, a wall of columnar basalt, and is a favourite for families. You reach the trailhead by the seasonal Reds Meadow shuttle. From here you can extend to Rainbow Falls.
- Kennedy Meadow to the Bridge via PCT - A moderately difficult hike, Kennedy Meadow to the Bridge via PCT is regarded as an excellent route to see wildlife as it takes you alongside a charming river and through picturesque meadows.
- Treasure Lake Trail - Ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children, the Treasure Lake Trail delivers you to a pair of stunning lakes, where incredible sightlines can be enjoyed.
- June Lake Loop Trail - An excellent location for wildlife viewing, the June Lake Loop Trail is easily accessible and possesses great views of the surrounding Inyo National Forest landscape.
- Saddlebag Lake Trail - Circumventing the shoreline of an alluring alpine lake, the Saddlebag Lake Trail is a family-friendly route where you can take your time and enjoy!
- Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes Trail One of the most rewarding easier days in the Eastern Sierra, this route passes a string of picturesque alpine lakes with big mountain views, and is popular with families and photographers alike.
- Crystal Lakes Trail - After traversing a delightful forested section, the Crystal Lakes Trail arrives at a picturesque lake where you will want to stop and have a picnic!
- Mammoth Mountain Trail - A trail that leads you up the backside of Mammoth Mountain - a popular ski hill within California - the route is easily accessible and an excellent choice for a day hike with older children.
- Sky Meadows Trail - Leading you to a gorgeous alpine meadow, the Sky Meadows Trail is perfect for beginner hikers and families with young children.
More Hikes in Inyo National Forest
- Minaret Lake Trail
- Methuselah Trail (ancient bristlecone pines)
- Chocolate Lakes Loop Trail
- Twenty Lakes Basin and Saddlebag Lake Loop
- Cirque Lake via Cottonwood Lakes Trail
- Big Pine Creek Campground and Glacier Lodge Loop Trail
When Is The Best Time To Hike In Inyo National Forest?
Although Inyo National Forest is a year-round destination, the best time to hike within its beautiful landscape is during the warmer months - from June till October. During this time the alpine wildflowers bloom, and the cornucopia of life that inhabits the ecosystem is most active - making for an experience that won't soon be forgotten.
Other Outdoor Activities In Inyo National Park
Along with its extensive hiking trail network, Inyo National Forest has no shortage of fun outdoor activities to do! During the warmer months, cyclists bike along the scenic roadways and technical mountain bike paths. Kayakers, canoeists and stand up paddle boarders make their way to the many lakes throughout the area, while rock climbers ascend the imposing cliff faces of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. As fall turns into winter, people ski and snowboard at world famous ski resorts such as Mammoth Mountain, and snowshoe along Inyo National Forests many trails and frozen lakes.
Inyo National Forest Adventure Tours
The Sierra Nevada Mountain range has an amazing variety of professionally guided and planned tours.
Browse our Guided tours in the United States to find one that fits your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Inyo National Forest
Do I need a permit for Inyo National Forest?
For most day hikes in the forest, no permit is needed. Overnight trips into the wilderness require a wilderness permit, and the Mount Whitney Trail requires a permit every day of the year, for day hikes as well as overnight trips.
How much does it cost to climb Mt Whitney?
A Mount Whitney permit costs a 6 US dollar non-refundable application fee, plus 15 US dollars per person once a permit is granted. Permits for the quota season are awarded through the annual Recreation.gov lottery linked above, with applications in February and results in mid-March. Any unclaimed dates are released for booking in late April.
Are campfires allowed in Inyo National Forest?
Outside of designated Inyo National Forest recreational sites, campfires are not permitted. A California campfire permit is required to use a stove or lantern in the backcountry, and fire restrictions often tighten in late summer, so check current conditions before you go.
How many people climb Mt. Whitney each year?
Roughly 30,000 people set out to summit Mount Whitney each year, but only a portion reach the top, as the altitude and length of the route turn many back. Acclimatising to the elevation beforehand makes a big difference.
Other great Hiking Regions in California
Displaying 40 of 59 routes
Route guides for Hiking in Inyo National Forest
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Mount Whitney Trail Route Guide
A physically demanding and technically formidable route, the Mount Whitney Trail is a must-do for the seasoned hiker who enjoys a challenge. Traversing steep switchbacks and taking you alongside sheer cliffs, the route should only be attempted by experienced hikers whose skills, physical ability and equipment are sufficient enough for the rigours of the imposing mountain.
Devil’s Postpile Loop Route Guide
Short in distance, and with relatively little elevation gain, the Devil's Postpile Loop is an excellent route for beginner hikers and families with young children. The route traverses a scenic pathway before arriving at the stunningly amazing Devil's Postpile - an incredible geological formation that is amongst the most beautiful within Inyo National Forest.
Kennedy Meadow to the Bridge via PCT Trail Route Guide
Kennedy Meadow to the Bridge via PCT Trail is a beautiful route within Inyo National Forest that traverses the scenic terrain of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range. This moderately difficult route takes you alongside a charming river and through lovely meadows, and is considered to be an excellent place for viewing wildlife.
Treasure Lakes Trail Route Guide
The Treasure Lakes Trail is a magical route within Inyo National Forest that is ideal for intermediate hikers, and families with older children. Traversing steadily inclining terrain, the route brings you to a pair of tranquil lakes where incredible sightlines can be enjoyed.
June Lake Loop Trail Route Guide
An ideal route for intermediate hikers, and families with older children, the June Lake Loop Trail is a stunning route within Inyo National Forest. A great trail to see wildlife and take in the scenery of the surrounding landscape, the June Lake Loop Trail is an excellent choice for your next hike!
Saddlebag Lake Trail Route Guide
A family-friendly route in Inyo National Forest, the Saddlebag Lake Trail is a scenic pathway that traverses the shoreline of beautiful Saddlebag Lake. A route with great views of the surrounding landscape, Saddlebag Lake Trail is also considered an excellent place to view wildlife.
Twenty Lakes Basin and Saddlebag Lake Loop Route Guide
An absolutely stunning route, Twenty Lakes Basin and Saddlebag Lake Loop is a must-do route within Inyo National Forest. Traversing the imposing alpine terrain of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range, the route is excellent for wildlife viewing and admiring the highland vegetation that is prolific throughout its extent.
Crystal Lake Trail Route Guide
A stunning route, Crystal Lake Trail traverses some lovely forested terrain before arriving at picturesque Crystal Lake. A fairly short route, Crystal Lake Trail is both family friendly and easily accessible. The route boasts incredible views of the surrounding Inyo Forest Landscape and is regarded as an excellent place to see wildlife.
Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes Trail Route Guide
The Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes Trail is an incredible route that brings you to a number of picturesque lakes within Inyo National Forest. Fairly long, and with a sizable amount of elevation gain, the Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes Trail is rated as moderately difficult and is therefore appropriate for intermediate hikers and families with older children.
Mount Whitney Portal to Lone Pine Lake Trail Route Guide
Considered to be a more challenging route, the Mount Whitney Portal to Lone Pine Lake Trail is ideal for more experienced hikers. Traversing beautiful terrain with gorgeous views, many do the Mount Whitney Portal to Lone Pine Lake Trail as a warm up route before attempting to summit Mount Whitney itself.
Minaret Lake Trail Route Guide
Taking you through stunning mountain topography, alongside charming creeks, and eventually ending at the picturesque Minaret Lake, the Minaret Lake Trail is an incredible route. A longer trail with a fair amount of elevation incline, the Minaret Lake Trail is ideal for more experienced hikers and those looking for a challenge in Inyo National Forest.
Lake Mary Loop Route Guide
The Lake Mary Loop is a short route within Inyo National Forest that is ideal for families with young children and those seeking a casual hiking experience. Regarded as a great place to view wildlife, the Lake Mary Loop takes you around the shoreline of scenic Lake Mary.
Mammoth Mountain Trail Route Guide
A scenic route that offers incredible sightlines of the surrounding region, the Mammoth Mountain Trail is an excellent choice for your next hike in Inyo National Forest. Fairly long in distance, and with a notable amount of elevation gain, the Mammoth Mountain Trail is perfect for intermediate hikers and families with older children.
Gem Lake via Rush Creek Trail Route Guide
The Gem Lake via Rush Creek Trail is a beautiful route within Inyo National Forest. Traversing the imposing topography of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range, the route ends at a tranquil lake where stunning sightlines can be enjoyed.
Jordan Hot Springs via Casa Vieja Trail Route Guide
Traversing alongside quaint creeks and through charming meadows, the Jordan Hot Springs via Casa Vieja Trail is an excellent choice for your next hike in Inyo National Forest. As the Jordan Hot Springs via Casa Vieja Trail ends at a natural hot spring, it is an incredibly unique route that you won't want to miss!
Sky Meadows Trail Route Guide
The Sky Meadows Trail is a great route for beginner hikers and families with younger children. Ending at a sublime alpine meadow, the route is not excessively long. Taking you alongside beautiful lakes and charming creeks, the Sky Meadows Trail is regarded as an excellent wildlife viewing route.
Fern Lake Trail Route Guide
Appropriate for intermediate hikers and families with older children, Fern Lake Trail is a beautiful route within Inyo National Forest. The trail ends at stunning Fern Lake, where picturesque views of the surrounding alpine landscape can be enjoyed. Along with its great sighlines, Fern Lake Trail is also regarded as an excellent route for wildlife viewing.
Inyo Craters Trail Route Guide
Taking you alongside two impressive volcanic craters, the Inyo Craters Trail is an easily accessible route within Inyo National Forest. Short in distance, and with relatively little elevation incline, the route is ideal for families with young children and casual hikers.
Big McGee Lake Trail Route Guide
A stunning route within Inyo National Forest, Big McGee Lake Trail traverses some stunning Sierra Nevada terrain before delivering you to Big McGee Lake itself. At the lake, incredible sightlines of the surrounding area can be enjoyed and opportunities for wildlife sightings are plentiful.
Steelhead Lake via McGee Pass Trail Route Guide
Steelhead Lake cia McGee Pass Trail is a beautiful route within Inyo National Forest. A longer route with a fair amount of elevation incline, Steelhead Lake via McGee Pass Trail is ideal for more experienced hikers who are seeking a challenge.
Cirque Lake via Cottonwood Lakes Trail Route Guide
Cirque Lake via Cottonwood Lakes Trail is an incredible route within the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range. Bringing you alongside charming creeks, past beautiful lakes and throughout imposing mountains, the Cirque Lake via Cottonwood Lakes Trail is an excellent choice for your next hike within Inyo National Forest.
Reversed Peak Trail Route Guide
Reversed Peak Trail is undoubtedly an underrated route within Inyo National Forest. A lightly trafficked pathway, Reversed Peak Trail boasts mesmerizing sightlines of the surrounding Inyo National Forest landscape and is considered to be an excellent route for wildlife viewing.
Lone Pine Campground to Whitney Portal Trail Route Guide
The Lone Pine Campground to Whitney Portal Trail boasts incredible views of the surrounding landscape. Sightlines of the imposing mountains of the eastern Sierra Nevada range can be enjoyed throughout the route's duration as the pathway takes you alongside charming Lone Pine Creek.
Cabin Trail to Methuselah Loop Route Guide
Cabin Trail to Methuselah Loop is an excellent choice for your next hiking route within Inyo National Forest. Boasting sublime views of the surrounding eastern Sierra Nevada mountain landscape, Cabin Trail to Methuselah Loop is a breathtaking trail that is also considered to be an excellent location for wildlife viewing.
Great Sierra Mine via Gaylor Lakes Trail Route Guide
The Great Serra Mine via Gaylor Lakes Trail is a stunning route that takes you through the breathtaking mountainous terrain of Inyo National Forest. Passing alongside two picturesque lakes before delivering you to an interesting abandoned mining complex, the route is ideal for intermediate hikers who are also interested in the history of resource extraction within the region.
June Lake Loop Trail to Yost Creek Trail Route Guide
An easily accessible route within Inyo National Forest, June Lake Loop Trail to Yost Creek Trail is an excellent choice for your next hiking adventure! With incredible views of the surrounding eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain landscape and ample opportunities to view an abundance of wildlife, June Lake Loop Trail to Yost Creek Trail will not leave you disappointed.
Dinosaur Falls Trail Route Guide
Dinosaur Falls Trail is a beautiful route within Inyo National Forest. Easily accessible, the route is ideal for families with young children and those seeking a more casual hiking experience. Along its extent you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountainous landscape.
Lake George to Deer Lakes Trail Route Guide
Lake George to Deer Lakes Trail is an easily accessible, yet fairly challenging route within Inyo National Forest. Taking you through the alpine environment of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, the trail is both stunningly beautiful and considered to be an excellent route for wildlife viewing. The route can be completed as either a backpacking trip or throughout one long day.
Gable Lakes Trail Route Guide
A challenging route within Inyo National Forest, the Gable Lakes Trail leads you through stunning alpine terrain before arriving at a set of picturesque lakes and an abandoned mining site. A lightly trafficked route, it is unlikely that you will see many others along the Bale Lakes Trail.
Upper Pine Lake via Italy Pass Trail Route Guide
A more challenging route, Upper Pine Lake via Italy Pass Trail is ideal for more experienced hikers who are seeking a challenge. That being said, with great views of the surrounding Inyo National Forest landscape, Upper Pine Lake via Italy Pass Trail is more than worth the effort!
Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail Route Guide
Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail is a scenic route within the high alpine environment of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range. A longer - and therefore more challenging route - the trail is ideal for more experienced hikers and those seeking a challenge. Boasting great views of the surrounding Inyo National Forest landscape, Cottonwood Lakes and Army Pass Trail will not leave you disappointed.
Lakes Basin Path to Pack Trail Route Guide
A more challenging route within Inyo National Forest, Lakes Basin Path to Pack Trail is ideal for more experienced hikers who are looking for a challenge. The route traverses the stunning alpine environment of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range and takes you alongside charming creeks and picturesque lakes.
Valentine Lake Trail Route Guide
An underrated route within Inyo National Forest, Valentine Lake Trail is without a doubt worth the effort! Boasting sublime scenery characteristic of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range, Valentine Lake Trail is an ideal route for intermediate hikers and families with older children.
Sabrina Basin to Donkey Lake Trail Route Guide
Sabrina Basin to Donkey Lake Trail is a scenic route within Inyo National Forest that is well suited for intermediate hikers and families with older children. Boasting incredible views of the surrounding eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range, the route can be done in a day or broken up into a backpacking trip.
Lake George to Emerald Lake via Coldwater Campground Trail Route Guide
An ideal route for families with young children, Lake George to Emerald Lake via Coldwater Campground Trail traverses stunning Inyo National Forest terrain while leading you past a number of beautiful lakes. The route is also considered to be an excellent location for wildlife viewing.
Cottonwood Lakes Trail Route Guide
The Cottonwood Lakes Trail is an excellent route within Inyo National Forest. Primarily used as an overnight backpacking route, the trail can be completed in a day as long as you are willing to travel a fair distance. The route is also considered to be an excellent location to view wildlife.
Lake George Trail Route Guide
An adventurous route, Lake George Trail brings you along the shoreline of its namesake. Although relatively short and with little elevation fluctuation, the majority of the route is not on a designated Inyo National Forest pathway and so navigation can be difficult at times. Nevertheless, the scenery is beautiful and the route is regarded as an excellent place to view wildlife.
Red Meadow Resort to Lower Falls Trail Route Guide
Red Meadow Resort to Lower Falls Trail is a moderately difficult route in Inyo National Forest that takes you through some stunning terrain. The route passes both Rainbow Falls and its less celebrated counterpart Lower Falls and is a less frequented option then the heavily used Rainbow Falls Trail.
Gibbs Lake Trail Route Guide
The Gibbs Lake Trail is a stunning route within Inyo National Forest that leads you through impressive mountain terrain before ending at the charming Gibbs Lake. An excellent place to view wildlife, GIbbs Lake Trail is rated as moderately difficult and is therefore perfect for intermediate hikers and families with older children.
Hungry Packer Lake Trail Route Guide
The Hungry Packer Lake Trail is a lightly trafficked route within Inyo National Forest. The route can be done throughout one long day or can be broken up into a backpacking trail depending on what kind of experience you are looking for. Regardless of how you choose the route, the Hungry Packer Lake Trail offers incredible sightlines of the surrounding alpine environment.
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