Little Lakes and Mono Pass Trailhead (Gem Lakes) — Attraction in Mammoth Lakes

One of, if not THE, most magnificent trails I’ve ever walked! The lakes and their rivers are stunning, and the green meadows surrounding add to the lush environment. The snow-capped mountains towering over the lakes make the whole scene look that much larger. I really don’t know what else could have been present on this trail, it truly is incredible as it is. Dogs are welcome on the trails too! There were tons of hikers with their pups of all sizes

There are levels of convenience with parking lol. The best outcome is getting right up to where the trail starts near the two restrooms (which are really gross by the way), but if not then you’ll have to find other parking lots/park on the side of the street which can be like a 15 minute walk up the road.

Truly a must-see if you’re visiting Bishop. It’s a bit of a drive to get there, but so worth it. I’d also like to add that just when you feel like you’re done at the first lake, keep hiking up along the river flowing into it. You’ll keep coming across lake after lake with this in mind and it seems to get more and more beautiful with each lake passed. The hiking routes are not difficult at all. I didn’t see anyone swimming just cause it was so freezing! But you can swim, and fishing is allowed as well although most fishermen I asked said they kept getting really small catches (which I would have guessed since there are lots of those tiny fish near the lakebed!). Although I did not finish the entire trail to see all lakes, it was amazing. I am not sure if it loops, but coming back from the second main lake we had to go all the way in reverse...

Absolutely beautiful. The most scenic hike I have ever done. Did the Little Lakes trail and went to Long Lake then back which is a little over 4 miles total. I would rate this hike as moderate but areas can get a little difficult with adjusting to the altitude and some of the climbing up/down (highly recommend trekking poles to take the load off your knees). Some parts are shaded and some aren't so I would recommend sunscreen and starting early in the day. Getting to the trailhead can be a little daunting. The main road is nice but then reduces down to a narrow dirt road that continues to become more narrow with low visibility as you get closer to the trailhead so make sure to drive slow and share the road. We did just fine in a Honda Civic. We saw some areas where there was a few extra parking spots on the way to the trailhead. We got to the trailhead parking lot at 8am on Friday and it was quite busy but still had some open spots. There were also bathrooms at the trailhead that were well taken care of. The first part of the hike is mostly incline so if you aren't adjusted to the altitude, take it slow and easy. This trail is nice because after a climb there will be a stretch that's downhill or flat to give you a break. Had no problem with bugs during the hike. Lots of people on the trail and passed many people coming up when we were going back at around 1pm so there must have still been some parking available. I would gladly do this hike again. It was a beautiful experience, especially having lunch on the shore...

Arrived here just before 6am to the trailhead. Keep in mind the parking will fill up quick! Get there early. We walked what felt like about 5 miles round trip(Long lake and back) passing many of the most pristine alpine lakes I've ever seen.

Truly a masterpiece of art crafted by nature. The best part was because we arrived early We were literally the only ones on the trail and all the lakes.

We must of stopped about a 50 times to take photos and relax to admire the scenery. Every view, every angle was breathtaking.

On the way back it started getting very crowded. No more silence, singing birds and melodies from the crystal clear river. The air was filled voices even heard from far away. I couldn't be happier we got here super early.

Overall, this is possibly the most beautiful trail we ever witnessed. I didn't want to leave ever corner triggered my imagination to wonder what lurks beyond my current vision.

I will be coming back, again, again and again. Share this with my children like my parents shared with me when I was little.

Don't forget... -At least 3 water bottles per person Good shoes -Bug spray -Sunscreen -Snacks -Pancho (even on a sunny day) -Be aware of bears Don't leave food in car if you are staying over night -Dont leave...