Minaret Mine

Minaret Mine is a moderate out-and-back hike in California's Ansel Adams Wilderness, within the Mammoth Ranger District of Inyo National Forest. The trail is managed by the Forest Service and runs about 3.9 miles round trip, with a total elevation gain of 665 feet from a low point of 9,091 feet to a high of 9,770 feet. The route is natural-surface and not accessible. Horses are allowed, but bikes are not. The trail is open year-round. Summer is the most comfortable time to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station at Tuolumne Meadows, which sits about 1,000 feet lower, show July highs around 71°F and lows near 38°F. Winter is cold, with January highs around 41°F and lows near 13°F. Minaret Creek lies about half a mile away, and Beck Lakes Trail is about 1.4 miles off. Minaret Falls Campground and the Ritter & Minarets climbing area are both within about 3 miles.