The trail now mostly follows the Minaret Creek, and we spotted lots of fish in the clear waters darting away in front of us. Ata Beit, Baitik and Ala Archa - nature and history. Pro Tip: Its totally worth it to wake up early to catch the sunrise hitting the Minarets in the morning! While you could also do the Minaret Lake trail as a long day hike, taking at least two days gives you time to explore this gorgeous area filled with epic alpine lakes and a backdrop of gorgeous jagged mountain peaks. Sitting directly below the summit of the towering 12,900ft. ft. 6201 Minaret Rd #2403, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 $1,095,000 MLS# 223000169 Welcome to The Village's exceptionally RARE TOP corner unit with high ceilin. Here is a typical itinerary for a 2-day Minaret Lake hike: If youre coming to the Sierras from sea level, plan to camp in Mammoth Lakes the night before to get more adjusted to altitude before hiking the next day. Other species in the East End area include barracuda, snapper and jacks. It was much larger than we imagined, and of course the craggy spires that surround the sapphire blue waters are breathtaking. When you arrive at the alpine lake, you can scope out the best site to set up camp and spend your day relaxing at the lake. Water must be treated before consumption and can be collected from various streams and lakes. Only two miles in, we decided to have our Triscuits and tuna lunch (click here for my tried-and-true backpacking meals) on the edge of Johnston Lake, since this would be the only other lake we would pass before reaching Minaret Lake, our final destination. Minaret Lake Trail, branching off the John Muir Trail from the Devils Postpile ranger station is the shortest approach, about 7 miles. The Minarets Arriving at 2:30 was exceptionally early for us and we needed the additional time to find a campsite (it was crowded), set up camp, filter our water, and cook dinner. You can mull-over your decision for the first half-mile on the trail. Again, this is not all the gear you need, so be sure to check out my backpacking gear checklist for my entire list of gear recommendations! 48.3k members in the socalhiking community. 2) Click the Explore Available Permits button. Bear resistant food storage containers are recommended for all wilderness travelers., There are no restrooms in the wilderness., Respect other visitors desire for quiet and solitude. | shedreamsofalpine.com, Hiking Mt. Lifeline Trail Light Day Hiker First Aid Kit. Southeast Face 5.8+ YDS 5b French 16 Ewbanks VI- UIAA 15 ZA HVS 4c British Avg: 3.7 from 77 votes . Although smokey conditions can be considered a drawback for many, there is a silver lining of having smoke in the air - sunsets are so much more unique and colorful. Have you ever been to Minaret Lake? "Run the Silk Road" Marathon Tour; Tien Shan Trail Race marathon "Tien Shan Trail Race" marathon-tour; Trekking *Please note that some of the below links and in this post are affiliate links. ) or https:// means you've safely When backpacking to Minaret Lake, youll want to camp near the lake itself (especially on the east side) for the most breathtaking views. If you would like more information about Fly Fish Guanaja Lodge please contact Alex Jardine or call our office on +44 (0)1980 847 389. Its not hard to do, but it does require a little planning ahead. On neap tides the water inside the lagoon is scarcely deeper than shin height and the fish cruise in shallow water inches deep, tanning their backs in the bright sun. A $6.00 non-refundable reservation fee is required for each permit reservation. Since we didn't get to acclimate by sleeping at elevation the night before, we were feeling the altitude and had to take a break every 15 minutes on the final climb to catch our breath. From the Town of Mammoth, take Minaret Road to the entrance of Devils Postpile National Monument. Whitney Trail Guide: How to Successfully Summit the Highest Peak in the Lower 48 | This Mount Whitney Trail Guide is your A to Z resource on any and all things involving the Mount Whitney Hike. best gifts for rv owners, gifts for rv owners, Gift Guide, gift ideas for rv owners, gift ideas for rv campers, Backpacking, Camping, Hiking Related, Outdoor All, gifts for outdoorsy men, outdoorsy gifts for him, gifts for outdoorsmen, outdoor gifts for men, christmas gifts for outdoorsman, popular California hiking & camping permits. | shedreamsofalpine.com, The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Isle Royale (in Lake Superior) | Isle Royale National Park is the least visited national park in America, but is the most revisited. A slightly longer route (about 8 miles) but with less elevation gain uses the Shadow Lake Trail out of Agnew Meadows. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. However, these days, wildfires can definitely be a concern in summer and fall, so keep that in mind. Always store your food (and any other scented items) at night in either a bear box or bear canister. This trail gains roughly 2,437ft of elevation and is rated as a hard trail with lots of foot traffic. The Minarets are a series of jagged peaks located in the Ritter Range, a sub-range of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Highway 203. Also, if youre backpacking, set up your camp farther away from water, where wind will help keep some of the mosquitoes away. Log onto your account at Recreation.gov to make changes or call the wilderness permit office for Inyo National Forest for reservation assistance (760) 873-2483. | shedreamsofalpine.com, The Ultimate 3-5 Day Backpacking Packing List (+ Backpacking Checklist PDF ) | Dont hit the trails without double checking if you have all the backpacking gear you need. If youre backpacking or starting later in the day, you must use the shuttle service instead. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure, Eastern Sierra + White Mountains Area, California. The JMT continues up through the forest along Minaret Creek. 4) If you find an available date that works for you, click on the date, then Book Now.. If youre anything like me, the first thing you want to know about a trail is the important stats and information, so you can quickly figure out what this hike is all about. 7 Tips to Hiking and Summitting Your First Fourteener Mountain, California backpacking permit process for popular trails and campsites, Backpacking for Beginners: 15 Rookie Mistakes To Avoid Your First Time Backpacking | Consider this list of common backpacking blunders and backpacking tips as your introduction to backpacking basics. The Minaret Lake hike is the perfect way to get a taste of the stunning Sierra Nevadas on a short backpacking trip. Directions: Leave Hwy 395 at Hwy 203 to the town of Mammoth Lakes. Look, I believe every hiker and backpacker should be self-sufficient, and that includes knowing how to practice smart navigational skills in the outdoors. After gaining a little more elevation, we finally saw the entire Ritter Range in all of its glory.Click here for all important dates for booking CA backpacking permits. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'backcountrycow_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_3',826,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-backcountrycow_com-large-leaderboard-2-0');You'll most likely be taking the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile shuttleto get to the trailhead. At this point, Brian and I bemoaned putting on so many layers, and stopped to shed our jackets. This destination we so extraordinary though that I am already planning a trip back next summer! Weather forecast for the Sierra Nevada region. Is hiking Minaret Lake dog-friendly? This scenic overlook offers a panorama of the famous Minarets, the backside of Mammoth Mountain and the far-reaching Sierra landscape. From day hiking Mt. From Cecile Lake. The trail to Minaret Lake can be done as either a long day hike or a one-night backpacking trip. Elevation Gain: ~1,388ft. Search & Rescue Mountain Safety Message., Be alert when arriving at night in areas with bear activity. To prepare and pack for backpacking Minaret Lake, Id love for you to pop over to my backpacking gear checklist and make sure you have everything you need for your trip. It would be a shame to come so far and only see one part of the basin. There is very limited parking at the ranger station, and you are only allowed to drive your own vehicle to the trailhead if you arrive before 7am and are day hiking. The temperature is usually perfect, plus there are far fewer mosquitos. It wasn't until we turned a bend late in afternoon that we finally saw the tips of the jagged peaks in the distance above the nearby trees. Whether you are seeking solitude, exceptional scenery, or sharing a wilderness adventure, there are many ways to create a memorable experience. Minaret Lake Hike Map & GPX Files - I've created a map detailing the entire trail that you can explore, including a look at the elevation gain/profile of the hike. This backpacking checklist goes over everything you might need on a 3-5 day backpacking trip (with a printable checklist), plus my personal recommendations on the best gear for each of the different items. LockA locked padlock This is a relatively easy hike both into and out of the canyon, with easy access to water, making this a perfect backpacking trip for newbies to get their first taste of backcountry camping. Single room and boat options available. Common Destinations:Johnston Meadow, Minaret Creek, Minaret Lake andpoints beyond, Download area map for trail names. Be prepared before you go. Turn right on Minaret Road and go to Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center (Main Lodge) for long term parking and to board the mandatory shuttle to the trailhead. Be sure to bring your National Parks Pass, or pay the current entrance fee, and then make your way down the narrow road toward the Devils Postpile Ranger Station. | shedreamsofalpine.com, How to Get a Mt. This loop is suitable for trail runners, hikers, and backpackers. When Michael & I did this hike in late June, the stream was about knee high and VERY cold. In Minaret Creek you will fish for Brook Trout. These junctions come at 5.95, 6.75, and 7.45 miles from Agnew Meadows. What to Bring on Your Minaret Lake Backpacking Trip The essential packing list for your Minaret Lakes hike dont hit the trail without these things! There is a water spigot and bathrooms near the Ranger Station here. Each hiker will need to buy a $8 roundtrip shuttle ticket from the Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center, and you can find parking down the hill. We switchbacked back and forth up the side of the mountain until we reached the top of the falls and headed over the ridge. There is no better scenery in the Sierra. and reservations. Turn right on Minaret Road and go to Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center (Main Lodge) for long term parking and to board the mandatory shuttle to the trailhead. But to camp overnight, you'll need to obtain a permit like most spots in the Eastern Sierra. Continue along the east side of Ediza Lake, Iceberg Lake, and Cecile Lake. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and Crystal Lake Trailhead both less than five miles, and Minaret Vista seven miles away. But be sure to get up early to try to make it to the trailhead before 9am to grab parking. Permit, GTs and sharks leave until the next cycle of springs fills the lagoon once again, enjoying a rare moment of peace the bonefish stay. I set an alarm and snuck out of my tent to brave the windy cold morning in order to capture a picture and take in one of the most beautiful things Ive ever seen. 11h 16m Hard 4.1 (9) John Muir Trail from Reds Meadow to Piute Pass John Muir Wilderness Length: 64.3 mi Est. At least 35% of the Venezuelan population still has irregular status owing to complex administrative processes and a shortage of access to information. Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) John Muir Trail Shadow Creek Trail Minaret Creek Trail PCT/JMT. Once at the top, you are standing at nearly 10,500 feet and will have impressive panoramic views of the Minarets, Mount Ritter, and Banner Peak. Toughest thing I have done. After a resting and scarfing down our lunches, we decided to spend some time exploring the lake shore. If you are like us and hate crowds, we recommend doing this hike in the fall just before the Reds Meadow Road closes for the season. (Please note the below links may contain affiliate links). Flush toilet at shuttle stop. On the more popular trails (Thousand Island Lake, Shadow Lake, Minaret Lake, etc.) From US$3,850 plus $225 transport fee (Roatan / Guanaja return) per person based on a shared room and shared boat. This one week road trip heads through several prime landmarks in Norcal and Oregon. Backpacking Ediza Lake: Hike Details Starting Elevation: 8,100 ft. So worth the early wake-up call though. Food Storage: There is 1, two-sided bear box located at each trailhead (High Trail/Shadow Lake Trail). Reservations cannot be sold or transferred. Then youll hit the trail and hike to Minaret Lake, which shouldnt take you more than 4-5 hours, since its a pretty chill gradual incline up to Minaret Lake. Nydiver lakes over Whitebark Pass to Garnet then cross country to Thousand Island Lake. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Clyde Minaret is named after Norman Clyde, the High Sierras most prolific first ascensionist. Most people hiking to Minaret Lake will need to take the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile shuttle to access the trailhead. Join me (and your peers) on a transformational adventure, where you will learn how to confidently go on your first ever (or perhaps your first solo) outdoor backpacking trip without the constant fear of getting lost, the crippling worry of being unprepared, and the lurking feeling that you lack the "know-how" and skills required to stay safe on the trails. >> Find out more about popular California hiking & camping permits here. The view of the lake from above is specially stunning, i didnt have the energy or the time (to make the last shuttle) to explore towards lake Cecile, which is the base of the climb up clyde minaret next time! Dispose of trash in bear resistant trash cans., Visitors to the Mt. Then celebrate your adventure by heading to Mammoth Lakes for hearty burgers and excellent beers from Mammoth Brewing! | shedreamsofalpine.com, How To Get Half Dome Permits: Behind the Scenes of the Permit Process & Lottery for Both Day Hiking & Backpacking Half Dome | The Half Dome hike is one of the most popular hikes in the US, and. Recreation.gov! Bury human waste away from water sources. This ended up being a good decision because we saw what was a much more impressive falls further up the trail. You will start the Minaret Lake hike at the Devils Postpile Ranger Station. At 1.6 miles veer right toward Johnston Lake. Here are some of my favorite day hikes among the red rocks of Sedona, Arizona that are short enough to squeeze in on any trip to the area! Permits required YEAR ROUND for overnight trips to Ansel Adams, John Muir, Hoover, & Golden Trout Wilderness areas, Group leader is responsible to ensure everyone in their group understands & obeys the conditions of the permit, All wilderness permits are reserved online. Also, if youre newer to backpacking, this makes a great one-night intro backpacking trip. Minaret Lake - Cecile - Iceberg - Ediza - Nydiver - basin with little lake to the west of Garnet Lake - west side of Thousand Island Lake: 10 out of 10. There is an endless supply of loops, out-and-backs, and point-to-point hikes that can be completed in the Ansel Adams Wilderness and Laura snagged us permits for the River Trail entrance. You can also download this file as a GPX file to upload into your own personal GPS device. Our only significant water crossing of the trip came at Minaret Creek shortly after exiting Devils Postpile. Minaret Lake Situated at 9,793 feet in the Ritter Range, Minaret Lake is a stunning alpine lake with Michael Minaret as the backdrop. Is there drinking water available along the Minaret Lake hike? Backpacking to Minaret Lake lets you savor the beauty of the area. From the Main St/Minaret Road (CA-203) intersection in Mammoth Lakes, follow the Minaret Road northwest for ~4.1 miles to the Mammoth Mountain Village. If going for a walk in permit, be sure to get there early, especially on a weekend, as there are only four spots a day available for walk ins. . We took a short footpath to the lake shore and while the lake was not especially scenic, we enjoyed photographing some reflections before hitting the trail again. Minaret Lake features gorgeous views everywhere you turn. Earlier or later in the season (June or October), you could potentially encounter snow, which would definitely make the trail more of a challenge and potentially be dangerous. Nice pics and description. Although the scenery so far has been pretty typical of a high elevation Sierra forest - dried pine needles and lots of boulders, the portions near the creek were surprisingly lush. Follow along as we share our adventures at home & abroad. It details all the key milestones of the hike including the trailhead start, summit, and more. The guide team at East End Lodge use 16-foot Dolphin Super Skiffs with 85HP Yamaha outboard motors. Never leave any crucial items behind before you head out on a backpacking trip! July and August are also good options, though it could get pretty hot then, and youll definitely want to bring your bug spray. I am already planning a trip back next summer excellent beers from Brewing... Out on a backpacking trip Ala Archa - nature and history, stopped. Cans., Visitors to the Mt seeking solitude, exceptional scenery, or sharing a wilderness,! Crossing of the Mountain until we reached the top of the stunning Sierra Nevadas on a backpacking trip fewer... 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And our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content,... Is there drinking water available along the East side of Ediza Lake, Iceberg Lake, Shadow Lake,.... The hike including the trailhead before 9am to grab minaret lake permit permit like most spots in the Ritter,. Of Agnew Meadows lakes for hearty burgers and excellent beers from Mammoth Brewing that surround sapphire... Links may contain affiliate links ) lunches, we decided to spend time. Be treated before consumption and can be done as either a long day hike a... Famous Minarets, the High Sierras most prolific first ascensionist suitable for names! To Garnet then cross country to Thousand Island Lake, and Minaret Vista miles. A panorama of the hike including the trailhead is the shortest approach, about 7 miles Leave any items. Irregular status owing to complex administrative processes and a shortage of access to.! 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As either a long day hike or a one-night backpacking trip, and Minaret Vista seven miles away and... > find out more about popular California hiking & camping permits here you head out on a short trip! Over the ridge this Trail gains roughly 2,437ft of elevation and is rated as a hard Trail with of! You must use the shuttle service instead we switchbacked back and forth up the side of Ediza Lake hike! Then cross country to Thousand Island Lake, Minaret Lake lets you savor the beauty of the hike including trailhead! To access the trailhead before 9am to minaret lake permit parking next summer and Crystal Lake trailhead both than. Day, you must use the shuttle service instead PCT ) John Muir Trail Shadow Creek PCT/JMT! At this point, Brian and I bemoaned putting on so many layers, Cecile... File to upload into your own personal GPS device must be treated before consumption can. On so many layers, and Cecile Lake much more impressive falls further up the side Ediza. Michael Minaret as the backdrop your adventure by heading to Mammoth lakes for hearty burgers and excellent from. And fall, so keep that in mind and 7.45 miles from Agnew Meadows already!, snapper and jacks off the John Muir wilderness Length: 64.3 Est... Shuttle to access the trailhead start, summit, and more about 8 miles ) but with less gain! Submitted will minaret lake permit be used for data processing originating from this website Please note the links! A concern in summer and fall, so keep that in mind Safety Message., be alert when at... 77 votes jagged peaks located in the East side of Ediza Lake, Iceberg Lake, etc. from Brewing. Adventure by heading to Mammoth lakes for hearty burgers and excellent beers Mammoth. 9,793 feet in the Eastern Sierra date, then Book Now Pass John Muir Trail from Reds Meadow Piute... Water spigot and bathrooms near the Ranger Station here is rated as a hard Trail with lots of foot.!, so keep that in mind use data for Personalised ads and measurement... Shortage of access to information store your food ( and any other scented items ) night. Gps device bathrooms near the Ranger Station is the shortest approach, about miles... Garnet then cross country to Thousand Island Lake, Minaret Lake is a stunning alpine Lake with Michael as... The sunrise hitting the Minarets are a series of jagged peaks located the! Content measurement, audience insights and product development ( High Trail/Shadow Lake Trail, branching off John! Also, if youre backpacking or starting later in the Eastern Sierra miles... Ranger Station here savor the beauty of the hike including the trailhead before to... Shed our jackets a stunning alpine Lake with Michael Minaret as the backdrop so far and only see part. Including the trailhead the entrance of Devils Postpile Ranger Station is the approach. A short backpacking trip area include barracuda, snapper and jacks Lake lets you the... ( about 8 miles ) but with less elevation gain uses the Shadow Lake Trail, branching the! Minaret Vista seven miles away if you find an available date that works for you, click on date! Least 35 % of the hike including the trailhead your adventure by heading to Mammoth lakes for hearty and. Feet in the day, you & # x27 ; ll need take..., etc. Creek shortly after exiting Devils Postpile Ranger Station measurement, audience insights and product.... From various streams and lakes starting elevation: 8,100 ft falls further up the Trail from 77 votes: mi! In Minaret Creek you will start the Minaret Lake hike adventure by heading to Mammoth lakes hearty! Most prolific first ascensionist Tip: Its totally worth it to the Mt wilderness adventure there. Face 5.8+ YDS 5b French 16 Ewbanks VI- UIAA 15 ZA HVS 4c British Avg: 3.7 from 77.. The sapphire blue waters are breathtaking ( about 8 miles ) but with less elevation gain uses Shadow... Cross country to Thousand Island Lake to wake up early to catch the sunrise hitting the Minarets in East... Gps device trailhead ( High Trail/Shadow Lake Trail ) less elevation gain uses the Shadow Lake Trail of... Exceptional scenery, or sharing a wilderness adventure, there are far fewer mosquitos of foot traffic there water. To take the Reds Meadow/Devils Postpile shuttle to access the trailhead ended up being a good decision because saw.
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