Hikes/United States/California/Inyo National Forest

Barney Lake Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.7 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
359 m
User Ratings
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Barney Lake Trail is a moderately difficult route within Inyo National Forest. The beautiful route ends at a charming alpine lake, where incredible views of the surrounding Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range can be enjoyed. The Barney Lake Trail is ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children.

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Route Description for Barney Lake Trail

Depending on the time of year that you are planning on doing the Barney Lake Trail, the mosquitoes can become rather prolific. It is therefore recommended that you bring bug repellent and that you wear both long sleeves and pants if you are planning on doing the Barney Lake Trail in the springtime.

Having left your vehicle at the parking lot, take the Duck Pass Trail southeast across elevation that begins to incline almost immediately. After a small switchback section, the trail will straighten out and keep along a southern heading. The Duck Pass Trail will bring you along the western shore of Arrowhead Lake before arriving at a junction within the trail.

At the junction, stay south on Duck Pass Trail as it makes its way along the western shore of Skelton Lake. After passing Skelton Lake, the trail crosses a stream before plateauing. You will soon arrive at Barney Lake, where you should take the opportunity to enjoy the incredible views before backtracking your steps towards the trailhead.

Getting to the Barney Lake Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for Barney lake Trail is located off of Coldwater Creek Campground Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Coldwater Campground

  • When to do

    April-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Barney Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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