Sherwin Lakes
Discover the serene beauty of Sherwin Lakes, a moderate hike in Mammoth Lakes leading to pristine alpine waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, wildflowers bloom
Sherwin Lakes
Best Time
Clear skies, wildflowers bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the serene beauty of Sherwin Lakes, a moderate hike in Mammoth Lakes leading to pristine alpine waters.
"Worth the effort for the stunning views and refreshing alpine lakes!"
Pack for All Conditions
Weather can change quickly in the Sierras. Bring layers, water, and sun protection! :sunwithface: :hiking_boot:
Leashed Pups Welcome!
Your furry friends can join the adventure on the Sherwin Lakes Trail. :dog: :heart:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sherwin Lakes
John Muir Wilderness
Two pristine alpine lakes offering breathtaking views and a rewarding hike.
The Hike Itself
Sherwin Lakes Trail
A moderate 5-mile trail with rewarding switchbacks and stunning Sierra Nevada scenery.
Dog-Friendly Trails
Sherwin Lakes Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a perfect adventure for your furry companions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Sherwin Lakes Adventure
Trail Preparedness for Sherwin Lakes
While generally well-maintained, be prepared for varied terrain, including steep switchbacks.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for All Conditions
Weather can change quickly in the Sierras. Bring layers, water, and sun protection! :sunwithface: :hiking_boot:
Leashed Pups Welcome!
Your furry friends can join the adventure on the Sherwin Lakes Trail. :dog: :heart:
Moderate Hike, Big Reward
Expect steep switchbacks, but the views are worth the effort! :mountain_cableway:
Check Trail Status
Especially in spring/fall, snow can linger. Always check current conditions. :snow_cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for All Conditions
Weather can change quickly in the Sierras. Bring layers, water, and sun protection! :sunwithface: :hiking_boot:
Leashed Pups Welcome!
Your furry friends can join the adventure on the Sherwin Lakes Trail. :dog: :heart:
Moderate Hike, Big Reward
Expect steep switchbacks, but the views are worth the effort! :mountain_cableway:
Check Trail Status
Especially in spring/fall, snow can linger. Always check current conditions. :snow_cloud:
Bring Your Camera
The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, perfect for capturing memories. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sherwin Lakes for its stunning natural beauty and rewarding hike. The moderate trail with its challenging switchbacks leads to picturesque alpine lakes, making the effort well worth it. It's a popular spot for dog owners and photographers alike, offering beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
"Wonderful lake! Right now it's quite swollen due to the rainfall so there is no beach and you will have to climb around the shore for this fantastic view. Moderate and fun hike to get here."
Christopher Roman
"Great hike. Steep switchbacks but not hard. Worth the effort. About 50 mins each way to Sherwin lake"
Alice Ham
"Great late April hike. Very few people. A few snowy trail patches to lend that authentic Sierra feel! The lab pup loved it twice as much! 🦮"
Charlie Rahilly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sherwin Lakes is accessible via the Sherwin Lakes Trailhead, located off Highway 395 south of Mammoth Lakes. The trailhead is well-marked. Many visitors drive directly to the trailhead.
Yes, there is a parking area at the Sherwin Lakes Trailhead. It can fill up during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options directly to the Sherwin Lakes Trailhead are limited. It's generally best to have a personal vehicle or arrange a ride.
The drive from Los Angeles to the Sherwin Lakes area is approximately 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and your specific starting point.
Road closures can occur, especially during winter months or due to maintenance. It's crucial to check local road conditions and the Inyo National Forest website before your trip. Reds Meadow Access is closed seasonally.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For day hiking to Sherwin Lakes, a permit is generally not required. However, if you plan to camp overnight in the John Muir Wilderness, you will need a wilderness permit.
Sherwin Lakes is an outdoor natural area and is accessible year-round, weather permitting. The trailhead is open 24/7, but hiking during daylight hours is recommended.
There is no entrance fee to access the Sherwin Lakes Trailhead or hike to the lakes.
While Sherwin Lakes itself doesn't require tickets, for other Mammoth Lakes attractions like ski resorts or guided tours, booking in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.
Dogs must be kept on a leash on the Sherwin Lakes Trail. Be mindful of Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Sherwin Lakes is approximately 5 miles roundtrip and typically takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the lakes.
The hike is considered moderate, with some steep switchbacks. It's manageable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Swimming is possible in Sherwin Lakes, but the water is very cold, even in summer. Be prepared for a refreshing dip!
Yes, Sherwin Lakes Trail is dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
You might encounter various wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and potentially deer. Always maintain a safe distance and do not feed the animals.
📸 📸 Photography
The shores of the lakes offer stunning reflections and mountain backdrops. The trail itself provides beautiful vistas of the surrounding Sierra Nevada.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is restricted in wilderness areas like the John Muir Wilderness. Always check current regulations with the Inyo National Forest before flying a drone.
Fall foliage typically peaks in September and October, offering vibrant golden and red hues against the evergreen pines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The steep switchbacks offer a fun challenge, and the reward of reaching the beautiful alpine lakes is well worth the effort. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider bringing a small first-aid kit for any minor scrapes.Tips for Families:
* Start early: Beat the midday sun and potential crowds.
* Pack extra snacks and water: Keep energy levels high.
* Make it a game: Turn the switchbacks into a fun challenge.
* Leash your dogs: If bringing pets, ensure they are on a leash and well-behaved around children.
🐶 Dog Owners
It's crucial to remember that dogs must be kept on a leash at all times while on the trail and around the lakes. This ensures the safety of your dog, other hikers, and the local wildlife.Dog-Friendly Essentials:
* Leash: Always keep your dog on a leash.
* Water: Bring plenty of water for your dog, especially on warm days.
* Poop bags: Pack out all waste.
* Paw protection: Consider booties if the terrain is rough or hot.
📸 Photographers
The trail itself offers panoramic vistas, and the changing seasons bring unique photographic subjects, from summer wildflowers to vibrant fall foliage.Photography Tips:
* Golden Hour: Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light.
* Wide-Angle Lens: Capture the expansive landscapes.
* Tripod: Essential for low-light conditions and sharp images.
* Be patient: Wait for the perfect reflection or moment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sherwin Lakes Trail Experience
It's known for its well-defined path, though it does feature some steep switchbacks that can be challenging for some hikers.Many visitors highlight the dog-friendly nature of the trail, making it a fantastic option for those traveling with their canine companions. Remember to keep your dogs on a leash to protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.
+1 The trail can be hiked year-round, but conditions vary significantly. In late spring and early fall, you might encounter snow patches, adding a unique Sierra feel to your hike.Key Takeaways for the Trail:
* Distance: ~5 miles roundtrip
* Elevation Gain: ~900 feet
* Difficulty: Moderate
* Dog-Friendly: Yes (on leash)
* Best for: Hikers seeking scenic views and alpine lakes.
Seasonal Beauty of Sherwin Lakes
The air is crisp, and the crowds tend to thin out, offering a more serene experience.Late spring offers a unique perspective with lingering snow patches on the trails and surrounding mountains, creating a picturesque, almost ethereal landscape.
Seasonal Highlights:
* Summer: Wildflowers, full lakes, ideal hiking weather.
* Fall: Golden foliage, crisp air, fewer crowds.
* Spring: Snow patches, unique snowy landscapes.
* Winter: Snow-covered wonderland, potential for snowshoeing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit