Nestled between Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mounts, Eastern Sierra is home to some of the most gorgeous hiking trails within the United States.
Though you’ll want to see the entire region, those with only a few days will want to hit the area’s highlights.
From snow-peaked mountains to beautiful lakes, make the most of your time in the Eastern Sierras by checking out these seven trails.
1. Crystal Lake
For those who don’t have much time or are new to hiking, exploring the natural wonders of Crystal Lake is a must.
A 2.7-mile trail trek around this gorgeous lake takes hikers up an easy to manage slope, making it the perfect choice for newcomers.
2. Mammoth Rock
Finding time to pack up the car and drive to a remote hiking spot can be a chore. Thankfully, some trails around the Eastern Sierra are closer than one might think.
Case and point: Mammoth Rock Trail, located just outside of Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Upon reaching the top of Mammoth Rock’s trail, hikers will find themselves surrounded by the beauty of the nearby town as well as the trail’s limestone namesake.
The sights you’ll see along Mammoth Rock are so stunning they’ll have you calling Mammoth Village Properties as soon as your hike is through.
3. Rainbow Falls
With a name like Rainbow Falls, you already know you’re in for a gorgeous trail. But the name doesn’t do the trail justice.
Hikers willing to get up early stand the best chance of witnessing the falls’ natural rainbow.
4. Rock Creek Canyon
We recommend Rock Creek for experienced hikers or those looking for a challenge only. The difficulty doesn’t come from the trail itself, but the fact that it begins at 10,000 feet above sea level.
As a result, breathing may become difficult, even for fit hikers.
Be safe out there. Rock Creek is gorgeous, so take your time and walk the trail at your own pace.
5. Convict Lake
Despite its intimidating name, Convict Lake is a gorgeous area containing lakes, mountain ranges, and plenty of local wildlife.
Day hikers looking to get the full Eastern Sierra experience in a matter of hours should be sure to stop by.
6. Lundy Canyon
For those who want to immerse themselves in nature, the short, three-mile trail around Lundy Canyon is a must.
Explore beaver dams, enjoy the area’s local flora, and be sure to check out the waterfall.
7. Twenty Lakes Loop
The wonderful thing about the Twenty Lakes trail is its proximity to Yosemite National Park. Located right outside of the park’s boundaries, Twenty Lakes is an easy, scenic loop that everyone should experience at least once.
Water taxis patrol the area for easy access, though you can also walk to the trailhead.
Get Out and Explore the Natural Beauty of the Eastern Sierras
From gorgeous imagery to local wildlife, there’s so much to see and do in the Eastern Sierras that you’ll never want to leave. So pack a bag, grab a water bottle, and lace up those shoes, because nature is calling.
Looking for more travel tips? Be sure to check out our travel hacks to help you make the most of your travel time.
