Thousand Island Lake from Agnew Meadows

Near: Mammoth Lakes
Trip Type: Backpack (2-3 days)
Distance: 18 Miles
Elevation: 8,300 - 10,000 ft
Vegetation: Pine Forest, Meadows
Last Visit: 7/4/16

Just over the Sierra Crest from Yosemite National Park lies the Ansel Adams Wilderness.  It is certainly one of the most beautiful places in California with high craggy peaks soaring over dozens of pristine lakes and cascading rivers.   The slightly hyperbolicly named Thousand Island Lake is a popular destination deep in the wilderness area.  We took a common loop there from Agnew Meadows via the John Muir Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail.  Along the way this route passes several other gorgeous lakes and waterfalls.  This loop would be doable in a long day hike, but it's more than worth spending a night or two at the lake and exploring the higher terrain.  It's a long drive from northern California population centers, but it's more than worth it.

Lake Mary to Duck Lake

Near: Mammoth Lakes
Trip Type: Hike
Distance: 8 miles
Elevation: 9,100 - 10,800 ft
Surface: Dirt
Vegetation: Sparse Pine Forest
Last Trip: 7/2/16

We spent Independence Day weekend out in the Mammoth Lakes area.  Our first choice was to do a two-night backpack in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, but those overnight permits are in high demand and we could only get a permit for Sunday departure.  While waiting in line for permits we got a tip for a nice dayhike nearby.  I'm extending my always-listen-to-hike-suggestions-from-strangers-at-trailheads rule to ranger stations.  The trailhead for this hike is a bit busy, but the crowds thin quite a bit as you climb.  The trail passes three small lakes on the way to Duck Pass, each of which is a destination for anglers and family swimming expeditions.  Topping out over Duck Pass you're treated to a beautiful view over Duck Lake.