Mammoth Pass and McLeod 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.
4-5.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.4 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.
631 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Mammoth Pass and McLeod Lake Trail is a beautiful route within Inyo National Forest. Traversing the scenic alpine environment of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range, the trail offers incredible views and is regarded as an excellent place to view wildlife.

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Route Description for Mammoth Pass and McLeod Lake Trail

The Mammoth Pass and McLeod Lake Trail’s length and elevation incline make it likely not appropriate for families with young children and those seeking a more casual hiking experience. Likewise, sections of the route have little to no shade, and so we recommend wearing lots of sunscreen and a good hat to help protect you from the effects of the powerful alpine sun.

After leaving your vehicle at the Horseshoe Lake Parking Lot, follow Mammoth Pass Trail as it makes its way west. The terrain will continue to gradually incline as you reach a junction within the trail. At the junction, continue on Mammoth Pass Trail west as it plateaus shortly before delivering you to Boundary Creek.

The Mammoth Pass Trail will cross Boundary Creek before reaching another junction within the trail. Follow the northern pathway as it crosses two more creeks and arrives at a trail network near Rainbow Falls. When you're ready, backtrack your steps towards the junction in which Mammoth Pass Trail and McLeod Lake Trail meet. Take the southern pathway onto McLeod Lake Trail, so you can go admire charming McLeod Lake before following the trail all the way back to the parking lot.

Getting to the Mammoth Pass and McLeod Lake Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for Mammoth Pass and McLeod Lake Trail is located at the Horseshoe Lake Parking Lot.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Lake Mary Campground

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Mammoth Pass and McLeod Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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Mammoth Pass and McLeod Lake Trail Reviews

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