Lakes Basin Path / Horseshoe Lake Trailhead — Attraction in Mammoth Lakes

Interesting place, easy hike.

Observe the C02 warning signs that are there.

C02 occurs naturally because of the fault lines that are there.

The many tress that are there died because of it.

U.S.G.S scientists detected naturally occurring Carbon Dioxide (CO2) gas in the vicinity of Horeseshoe Lake and other areas on the Mountain in 1994.  Since then they have been monitoring the gas, measuring the concentration and rate of gas discharged from the ground.  The higher than normal concentrations of CO2 are responsible for killing approximately 120 acres of trees next to Horseshoe Lake and elsewhere on Mammoth Mountain. Scientists believe that the CO2 is being released from a gas reservior that has existed for a long period of time deep under Mammoth Mountain.  It is believed that earthquake and magmatic activity beneath the area in 1989 opened channels for the gas to reach the surface. CO2 is heavier than air and can collect at high concentrations in depressions and enclosures, posing a potential danger to people, especially small...

Horseshoe Lake Trail is a 1.5-mile loop trail with stunning views of Horseshoe Lake. The trail is moderately difficult, with an elevation gain of 400 feet. The trail is open year-round, but it is best to hike it in the spring, summer, or fall when the weather is mild.

In 1994, scientists discovered that high concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas were seeping from the ground near Horseshoe Lake. This CO2 gas is killing trees in the area, and it has created a large dead zone around the lake. Despite the dead trees, the Horseshoe Lake Trail is still a beautiful hike, and it is an important reminder of the dangers of climate change.

If you are planning to hike the Horseshoe Lake Trail, be sure to be aware of the dangers of CO2 gas exposure. Symptoms of CO2 exposure include dizziness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms, leave the area immediately and seek...

The hike was a bit steep at first, but our group (with lots of little and elementary-school-age kids) all made it up to the lake easily enough. Gorgeous views, rocky but easy shallow beach, and the hike was shady and not too buggy or hot or crowded. We saw several groups with dogs, and every single one of the dogs looked like they were having the time of their lives (but then again, dogs usually look like that, don't they?!). Kids loved the lake right at the parking lot (Horseshoe), and loved the hike-able lake (McLeod), but they did prefer the wood stacked fort piles by the hike-able McLeod Lake. I definitely think the easy hike is worth it, and very fun and quick (signs say it's about a one-mile hike...