Trail Overview
This well-maintained, fine-dirt trail branches from Inyo Crater Road and winds through a dense forest with impressive views of the surrounding trees. Expect sections reaching 8° off-camber and minor ruts up to 5 inches deep, along with occasional tight sections between trees. Camping is plentiful, with sites accommodating anywhere from two to 12 vehicles, including fifth-wheel campers and trailers. Most vehicles and trailers can navigate the route, although very large rigs may struggle through the tighter trees. Several downhill sections have extremely soft dirt; if traveling the route in reverse and climbing these sections, 4WD or AWD is highly recommended.
Difficulty
This trail is rated Level 2 because of the soft dirt, minor ruts up to 5 inches, 8° off-camber sections, and occasional tight trees. Most vehicles can complete the route when dry, but 4WD or AWD is recommended when climbing the softer sections.
History
Inyo National Forest was established in 1907 and today protects a vast section of the Eastern Sierra surrounding Mammoth Lakes. The area has a long history of Native American use, mining, ranching, and recreation, while its dramatic landscape was shaped by volcanic activity, glaciers, and the uplift of the Sierra Nevada.
