Convict Lake
Mammoth Lakes, California
Details
Distance
2.46 miles
Elevation Gain
56 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Todd Gordon
Convict Lake is a stunning alpine lake just south of Mammoth Lakes, CA. This lake also has easy access to HWY 395 and incredible fishing in the summer/fall.
In 1871, a group of inmates escaped from a prison and were ambushed near the lake by a posse who had tracked them down. The inmates escaped the shoot out after killing two of the men in the posse and the lake now had a name – Convict Lake.
You won’t witness a wild west shootout here, but if you find yourself in the Eastern Sierra, Convict Lake is a must see. It’s a pristine lake that sits at 7,580 feet and is surrounded by towering peaks which makes for some incredible views.
The lake is about 10 miles south of Mammoth Lakes and a short drive off of Highway 395. You’ll take the Convict Lake Road all the way to the lake and pass by a small resort on the way. The turnoff is opposite of the Mammoth Yosemite Airport on 395.
Once you get to the lake, you can park near the boat launch on the right or go left and continue until the end of the pavement. You can hike the loop in either direction. The trail is about 2.5 miles and relatively flat. If you go when it’s warm, there’s a nice rope swing along the way. There’s also a campground not too far away from the lake if you want to stay overnight.
If you want to do a more strenuous hike or backpacking, you can take the Convict Lake Backcountry trail and head out to the John Muir Wilderness. This is a strenuous hike of 6 miles and a gain of 2,700 feet of elevation. Be sure to grab a permit if you’re backpacking and bring a bear canister.
Fishing is also a popular activity at the lake. You can fish from the shore, rent a boat, or bring your own boat. The lake is stocked and has both Rainbow and Brown Trout. If you need a license or to rent a pole, you can do so at the general store of the small resort.
Morning is probably the best time to go if you want a nice photo of the lake when the mountains are lit up. During the Fall, aspens around the lake make for a dramatic scene.
If you're hungry after hanging out at the lake, head up Highway 395 to Mammoth Lakes for some food and adult beverages. The carnitas burrito at Roberto's Cafe is delicious and the beers at Distant Brewing are some of the best around.
Download the Outbound mobile app
Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.
Get the appFeatures
Reviews
I had visited this lake 2-3 times before actually doing the loop around the lake...I had no idea what I was missing out on! This is a great loop and the views are fantastic from all sides of the lake. There's a boardwalk over all the feeder springs/streams along the back of the lake and you can see peaks not visible from the parking areas. When the fall colors are popping around the lake it's an incredible place to be.
5.0
A bit of a ledge it some spots, but if kiddos are good listeners, it’s perfect. Gorgeous views too!
5.0
This hike is beautiful, and the perfect distance for a mid-afternoon hike. It's a relatively easy three miles, but still gets you out into the mountain air.
5.0
really gorgeous lake/mountains. lots of fun for a casual or starting a longer hike.
5.0
This is my favorite winter hike in Mammoth. It's never too busy, and the trail is very well maintained. Make sure you make your way all the way around, the views from the other side of the lake are incredible!
4.0
This is one of my favorite lakes to explore, it's full of both history and many things to do. The lake itself is an easy lake to access making it good for a quick stop or photo opportunity.
5.0
As a weekly visitor to convict lake if not more, I just want to point out winter hiking is doable but can be icy. Often windy as well. Looking to photograph the lake? Early in the day creates a perfect reflection especially with no wind.
5.0
Such a beautiful place to visit! The little cabins at the Convict Lake Resort were such a treat and reasonably priced during a slightly off-season. We enjoyed an amazing meal at the restaurant...the luxury of fine dining in the the casualness of dirty hiking pants! The campground is a very nice stay, as well. Mt. Morrison is a great hike, though cross-country and requires a little planning and navigation skills. We definitely look forward to a return trip :)
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Summit Mount Baldwin (12,614')
Fishing at Convict Lake
Relax at Laurel Lakes
Photograph the Fall Colors of McGee Creek
Backpack to Red Slate Mountain
Hike to Steelhead Lake through McGee Creek Canyon
Community
Mobile Apps
© 2022 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy