Convict Lake Mammoth Lakes
A stunning alpine lake in the Eastern Sierras, famed for its turquoise waters, dramatic peaks, and rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak fall colors
Convict Lake Mammoth Lakes
Best Time
Peak fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning alpine lake in the Eastern Sierras, famed for its turquoise waters, dramatic peaks, and rich history.
"Absolutely amazing! The trail is easy and relaxing, offering stunning visuals of the crystal-clear lake."
🎯 Easy Loop, Big Views
The 2.5-mile Convict Lake Loop Trail is family-friendly and offers stunning views throughout!
📸 Capture the Reflections
Mornings offer the most magical light for capturing the lake's mirror-like reflections.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Convict Lake Loop Trail
Around the lake
An easy 2.5-mile loop offering breathtaking reflections and mountain vistas.
Fall Foliage Spectacle
Surrounding trees
Vibrant golden aspens frame the turquoise lake, creating a stunning autumn scene.
Trout Fishing Paradise
Convict Lake
Renowned for its excellent trout fishing, attracting anglers from afar.
Historical Echoes
Convict Lake area
Discover the lake's storied past, once a site of outlaw hideouts and shootouts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Peak Views
Embrace the Outdoors: What to Pack
Pack layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are essential for sunny days. Don't forget your camera – the reflections and mountain backdrops are incredibly photogenic.+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Easy Loop, Big Views
The 2.5-mile Convict Lake Loop Trail is family-friendly and offers stunning views throughout!
📸 Capture the Reflections
Mornings offer the most magical light for capturing the lake's mirror-like reflections.
🎣 Cast a Line
Convict Lake is famous for trout fishing; bring your gear or rent some at the marina.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Easy Loop, Big Views
The 2.5-mile Convict Lake Loop Trail is family-friendly and offers stunning views throughout!
📸 Capture the Reflections
Mornings offer the most magical light for capturing the lake's mirror-like reflections.
🎣 Cast a Line
Convict Lake is famous for trout fishing; bring your gear or rent some at the marina.
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a hike with your furry friend.
🍂 Fall Colors Alert
For peak autumn beauty, aim for late September to mid-October.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Convict Lake for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly the stunning turquoise water and dramatic mountain backdrops. The easy loop trail is a highlight for its accessibility and continuous scenic views. While parking can be limited, the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for fishing and photography make it a highly recommended destination in the Mammoth area.
"Visited Convict Lake in Mammoth and did the loop hike around the lake—absolutely amazing! The trail is easy and relaxing, offering stunning visuals of the crystal-clear lake surrounded by dramatic mountain backdrops. Every turn gives you a new angle that’s picture-perfect. The reflections on the water are gorgeous, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a must-do whether you’re hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the views. A true gem in the Mammoth area!"
Harry
"Convict Lake in the fall is breathtaking! We did the short 2.5 mile walk around the lake and were surrounded by beauty the entire time. Highly recommend !"
Elaine “Elaine” Vega
"Such a lovely lake in all seasons! My girlfriend and I visited in the winter and it was stunning, such cool waves and mountain views. There is a nice 3-mile trail around the lake that I did in the springtime, it's very lovely. We also saw a really cool red-tailed hawk here too! Be sure to check out Convict Lake while in the Mammoth area :)"
Dennis Gavrilenko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Convict Lake is located just south of Mammoth Lakes, about a 15-20 minute drive. Take US-395 South and look for the well-marked turnoff for Convict Lake Road. The drive itself offers scenic views of the Eastern Sierras. +1
Convict Lake Road is typically plowed and accessible during winter, though conditions can vary. The lake itself may be frozen, offering a different kind of beauty. Check road conditions before you go.
The drive from Los Angeles to Convict Lake is approximately 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and your starting point. It's a popular road trip destination along Highway 395. +1
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services directly to Convict Lake. Most visitors drive their own vehicles or use ride-sharing services if available in the Mammoth Lakes area.
The closest major airport is Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH), which has limited commercial flights. Larger airports like Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are further away but offer more flight options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Convict Lake itself or to hike the loop trail. However, if you plan to use the campground or rent boats, there will be associated fees.
Convict Lake is generally accessible year-round, though road conditions can affect access in winter. The marina, store, and restaurant have seasonal operating hours, typically from late spring through early fall.
Yes, Convict Lake Campground offers campsites. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, and can be made through Recreation.gov.
Yes, a valid California fishing license is required to fish in Convict Lake. You can purchase licenses online or at local sporting goods stores.
Leashed dogs are allowed on trails and around the lake. Gas-powered boats are generally discouraged to preserve water quality, with electric motors or non-motorized boats preferred.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Convict Lake Loop Trail is an easy, relatively flat 2.5-mile loop that circles the lake. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering stunning views of the turquoise water, granite peaks, and surrounding forests.
Popular activities include hiking the loop trail, fishing for trout, kayaking, boating, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The Convict Lake Resort also offers horseback riding.
While the water is crystal clear and inviting, it is an alpine lake and can be very cold, even in summer. Swimming is generally not recommended due to the frigid temperatures.
You might spot various bird species, including red-tailed hawks, as well as deer and other small mammals in the surrounding wilderness.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the Convict Lake Resort area and near the marina. It's always a good idea to be prepared for limited facilities on some parts of the trail.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Convict Lake Resort has a restaurant and a small store that offers snacks and basic provisions. For more dining options, you'll need to drive back to Mammoth Lakes.
Absolutely! There are several scenic spots around the lake perfect for a picnic. Pack your own food and enjoy the stunning views.
The Convict Lake Store offers some essentials, but for a full grocery shopping experience, it's best to stock up in Mammoth Lakes before heading to the lake.
The restaurant at Convict Lake Resort typically serves American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, including fresh fish. It's a great place to enjoy a meal with a view.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Remember to pack out all trash to keep the area clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with soft, golden hues and stunning reflections. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
The entire loop trail offers incredible photo opportunities. Key spots include the viewpoints overlooking the lake, the marina area, and any spot where the granite peaks are reflected in the water.
Drone usage is subject to Inyo National Forest regulations. It's essential to check the latest rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions or capturing reflections.
While there aren't specific photography tours for Convict Lake, local photography workshops in the Mammoth Lakes area might include it as a destination. It's also easy to explore and find your own perfect shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will love spotting wildlife and the sheer beauty of the turquoise water. The Convict Lake Resort offers amenities like a store for snacks and a restaurant, making it convenient for families. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for the cold alpine temperatures, even in summer, so swimming might be out of the question.🎣 Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Whether you prefer casting from the shore or renting a boat from the marina, the opportunities are plentiful. The surrounding Eastern Sierras also offer incredible hiking and backpacking opportunities for those looking to extend their adventure. The easy loop trail is a great warm-up, but more challenging hikes are accessible nearby. Remember to secure your California fishing license before you go.📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
+1 The dramatic granite peaks, crystal-clear turquoise water, and vibrant foliage provide endless stunning compositions. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the lake's famous reflections.🚗 Road Trippers on Highway 395
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Convict Lake Loop Trail
Along the way, you'll encounter diverse scenery, from open meadows to shaded pine forests, with numerous points to stop and admire the dramatic granite peaks reflected in the impossibly clear, turquoise water.+1Many visitors rave about the peaceful atmosphere and the sheer beauty of the reflections. One reviewer noted, 'The trail is easy and relaxing, offering stunning visuals of the crystal-clear lake surrounded by dramatic mountain backdrops. Every turn gives you a new angle that’s picture-perfect.'
Convict Lake's Storied Past and Natural Beauty
The clarity of the water is remarkable, offering incredible reflections, especially during the calm morning hours.The lake is also a renowned destination for trout fishing, attracting anglers who seek the challenge of catching rainbow and brown trout. The Convict Lake Resort offers boat rentals, including kayaks and fishing boats, allowing visitors to explore the water up close.
+1 Beyond fishing, the area is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities for picnicking, photography, and simply soaking in the tranquil ambiance. The combination of its dramatic natural beauty and intriguing history makes Convict Lake a unique and captivating destination in the Eastern Sierras.Experiencing Convict Lake in Different Seasons
Autumn is arguably the most visually spectacular season. From late September to mid-October, the aspen and willow trees surrounding the lake erupt in a riot of golden and orange hues, creating a breathtaking contrast with the deep blue water and rugged mountains.
+2 This is a prime time for photographers and anyone seeking a picturesque landscape. Winter transforms Convict Lake into a serene, snow-covered wonderland. While access might be more challenging due to snow, the frozen lake and snow-draped peaks offer a peaceful, almost ethereal beauty. The Convict Lake Resort typically remains open, offering a cozy retreat amidst the winter landscape. Spring sees the snow melt, revealing the vibrant green of the meadows and the returning wildflowers, with the lake gradually thawing and becoming accessible for fishing and boating once more.
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