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.

Trailhead:

A day use area at the far southern end of the Coldwater Campground, at the southern end of Lake Mary.  We had to vulture about a bit to find a spot at midday on Independence Day weekend.

Route:

There are a couple of options out the trailhead, which allow to make a partial loop passing Arrowhead Lake on the way up and Emerald Lake on the way down.  It's a straight shot up the valley to Duck Pass, climbing steeply early (to Arrow Head Lake), moderates a bit past Skelton Lake and Barney Lake, then switchbacks up the steep headwall of the valley to top out over the pass.

CalTopo Map: http://caltopo.com/m/GNK1

Skelton Lake

Small creek above Skelton Lake

Barney Lake

Switchbacks up to Duck Pass

Looking back to Duck Pass

Duck Lake from the pass

Duck Lake

Emerald Lake