Fern Lake via Yost Creek Trail

Less than 30 minutes north of Mammoth Lakes, the beauty of the region is captured even on the drive to get to the trailhead. No bathrooms at the trailhead, however the town of June Lake is a short bit away. 

Out of the gate, the trail quickly climbs 850 feet in just less than a mile. The way up, while straining at times, provides expansive views of Silver Lake and the valley below. At the .9 mile point, the trail leads to a marker, continuing straight leading to Yost Lake, while turning right leads you to Fern Lake. Making the right turn to Fern Lake, the incline becomes even more daunting than before, rising about 400 feet in a very short bit. After the initial push, however, the remaining piece of this 0.7 leg to the lake is a bit more manageable. 

In all, the 1.7 miles sprint up the 'hill' is well worth the beauty that is waiting at the end. The alpine lake features plenty of relaxation spots, wildlife galore (we saw a deer at the opposite end), as well as places to camp for the night. Water temp during the summer is pretty amazing for a mid-hike swim as well, which provides a much needed cool off from the sprint up the mountain.