Sherwin Lakes Trailhead — Attraction in Mammoth Lakes

This is a nice trail with a moderate climb from the trailhead to the lakes. You'll cross Sherwin Creek soon after starting out and you'll see it again 2-2.5miles later as reach the first and largest lake.

I think this is a great hike to test your endurance before tackling any of the longer or more strenuous trails in the area. You'll be at 7-8,000 feet but shaded most of the way up the north-facing slope to the lakes. However, this means that you're likely to encounter patches of snow into late May during heavy snow years.

In addition to hikers, this trail is used by a lot of people fishing.

There are restrooms at...

Uphill most of the way with monotonous yet relatively nice scenery. It was very hot the day we hiked it at around 2:00, which left us disillusioned about halfway up. There were very few viewing and relaxing opportunities for the lake at the top, probably because of the wet winter we received this year. Nevertheless, we were left a bit disappointed with this trail especially with the nicer ones around it that require less of an uphill effort. I would skip this one if I had a...

Absolutely wonderful for first-time backpackers, and a fantastic, beginner-friendly day hike!

Pretty good parking for such a low-key trail. I love that it has a pit toilet and trash cans.

IMO, for backpacking, Valentine Lake isn't worth the climb because there aren't really any large enough flat spaces to set up camp. It was windy at night last time I went, too. I definitely recommend day hiking it though!...