Convict Lake Loop

Convict Lake Loop is a short, easy hike in the Mammoth Ranger District of Inyo National Forest in California, managed by the Forest Service. The trail is about 1.9 miles long, with a low point of 7,592 feet and a high of 7,641 feet, so the climb is minimal, just 41 feet of elevation gain over the course of the out-and-back route. The trail is natural-surfaced and open to both horses and bikes. It is not an accessible trail, so plan on a route that works for riding or walking rather than for visitors with mobility needs. Summer is the most comfortable time to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station at Mammoth Lakes show July highs around 78°F with lows near 49°F, while winter highs sit around 41°F with lows in the teens. Convict Lake Campground is about half a mile away, and the Convict Creek Trail starts just 0.1 mile off. The Convict Lake Vis hike is 0.7 mile away, and the Mt. Morrison climbing area is about a mile away.