Mammoth Pass to Duck Pass

Mammoth Pass to Duck Pass is a 16.2-mile out and back trek located outside of Mammoth, California. This challenging trek makes a beautiful ridgeline traverse along the Mammoth Crest Trail before taking you over Duck Pass and down to Duck Lake. Visitors should be comfortable with backcountry travel and/or familiar with the area in general as the Mammoth Crest Trail is less maintained than some nearby trails. Electronic and paper maps are recommended. This adventure is suitable for trail runners, hikers, and backpackers. The journey to Mammoth Pass begins with a steep climb from the Horseshoe Lake Parking Area. You continue the climb along the Mammoth Crest/Rim Trail, an exposed ridgeline trail that provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Following Duck Pass, you will descend to Duck Lake and walk briefly along its western shore. After enjoying the lake, return to the Mammoth Crest Trail and continue on the same route back to the trailhead. TRAILHEAD AMENITIESThe Horseshoe Lakes parking area features bathrooms, trash and picnic tables. PERMIT INFORMATIONNo permits are required for day use.Permits are required for overnight camping and backpacking trips and can be obtained at www.recreation.gov.Permit quota season is from May 1 - November 1.WATERWater along the route can be found from creeks, lakes, and springs and should be treated before consumption. TRANSPORTATIONMammoth Lakes Free Mountain Shuttle: https://www.mammothmountain.com/transportation/free-mountain-shuttle ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONMammoth Lakes Welcome Center 1-(760) 924-5500Wilderness Permit Information 1-(760) 873-2483Mammoth Lakes Trail Systems: https://www.mammothtrails.org/