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California
681 ft
Gain
No conditions check on file for this trail yet — always verify current conditions before you go.
Why you'll love it
Mono Pass Trailhead
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
<p>This historic trans-Sierra trail climbs gradually through lodgepole pines and past wet meadows. In mid-summer, look for red mountain heather blooming trailside. After the Spillway Lake junction, the trail climbs steadily and more steeply to Mono Pass (elevation 10,600 feet). Don't miss the spectacular view of Mono Lake and Bloody Canyon: from the pass, hike a bit farther toward Upper Sardine Lake.<br /> <br /> <strong>Distance:</strong> 8 miles (12.9 km) round-trip<br /> <strong>Elevation gain:</strong> 1,000 ft (300 m)<br /> <strong>Time estimate:</strong> 5-7 hours</p> <h2>Tips & Seasonal Information</h2> <p>This trail includes several unbridged stream crossings. Early in the season, when water can be very high, cold, and swift, use caution when crossing streams or turn back when crossing is not safe.<br /> <br /> In early summer, the trail can be very muddy in places. Stay on trail and go through mud puddles rather than around them to preserve delicate plant life in this sensitive ecosystem.</p> <p>Bicycles and pets are not permitted on hiking trails. A vault toilet is available at the trailhead parking area.<br /> <br /> This trailhead is only reachable by vehicle when Tioga Road is open, typically late May or early June to sometime in October or November.<br /> <br /> Tioga Road closes after the first significant snowfall. Overnight parking on this road, including this trailhead, ends October 15. For current road and weather information, please call 209/372-0200 (press 1, then 1).</p>
Gaylor Lakes Trailhead
~2 min drive
<p>This short but steep hike offers spectacular high-country views, wildflowers in the summer, and lake views. From the trailhead, located right next to Tioga Pass, climb steadily to a ridge with views of the high Sierra including Mt. Dana and Dana Meadows. At the ridge crest,…
Elizabeth Lake Trailhead
~9 min drive
<p>The trail climbs steadily to a glacier-carved lake at the base of Unicorn Peak in the heart of the Cathedral Range. A one-mile trail circles the lake. The trail begins at the back of the B loop in the Tuolumne Meadows Campground.<br /> <br /> <strong>Distance: </strong>4.8…
Cathedral Lakes Trailhead
~11 min drive
<p>Cathedral Lakes are nestled at the foot of Cathedral Peak. In addition to the lakes themselves, hikers will enjoy views of Cathedral Peak and Echo Peak. The trail through this area is part of the John Muir Trail, which sees high traffic all season. The area is also popular…
Sunrise Lakes Trailhead
~21 min drive
<h2>Sunrise Lakes</h2> <p>Indeed, a beautiful place to see sunrise, the lakes at Sunrise reflect the colors in the sky as well as the domed peaks that surround it. A short distance from the lakes, the Sunrise High Sierra Camp faces east for sunrise views. Reservations are requ…
Shell Lake
~6 min drive
Easy alpine lake hike with minimal elevation gain and scenic water views.
Gardisky Lake
~8 min drive
Ultra-short walk to an alpine lake with minimal elevation change.
Bloody Canyon
~9 min drive
Steep alpine climb with 2,080 ft gain offering dramatic Sierra views.
Saddlebag Lake Loop
~9 min drive
Easy alpine lake loop with minimal elevation gain and spectacular Sierra views.
Gibbs Lake
~10 min drive
Short alpine lake hike with steady elevation gain and scenic rewards.
Walker Lake North
~10 min drive
Short alpine trail with lake views and gentle elevation gain near Walker Lake.
