Trail Overview
Laurel Lakes - FS 28E201 is an exceptional high-elevation out-and-back trail designed for aggressive stock or lifted 4x4 vehicles, offering an exciting gateway into the eastern Sierra Nevada's dramatic alpine landscape. Climbing nearly 2,768 feet of elevation gain over its five-mile course, this route takes drivers from the sagebrush valleys near Mammoth Lakes to the scenic shores of Laurel Lake, nestled just below Bloody Mountain at over 10,040 feet. Part of the Inyo National Forest and bordering the pristine John Muir Wilderness, the trail offers a technical ascent with a surface composed of embedded rocks, loose shale, sand, and dirt. The lower section introduces rock gardens and boulders under 18 inches within the first 1.5 miles, setting the stage for more advanced maneuvering ahead.
As the route ascends, the terrain transitions into narrow shelf roads and tight switchbacks that demand precise wheel placement and low gear to maintain speed control. Notable obstacles include a narrow ledge road carved from a past landslide at mile 3.0, and a tight switchback at mile 4.75 that requires multi-point turns, making trailers highly discouraged on this route. Reaching the high alpine basin reveals breathtaking views of Laurel Lakes and the imposing Bloody Couloir, with vibrant fall foliage making autumn an especially popular time to visit. Due to the high altitude and exposure, drivers should prepare for unpredictable mountain weather, shelf roads with steep drop-offs, and lingering snowpack well into the summer season.
Difficulty
This trail features rock gardens and boulders under 18 inches from start to mile 1.5, all maneuverable with the right tire placement. Shelf roads are present along the way. At mile 3.0, the narrow ledge road is all rock from a past landslide with nowhere to turn around (watch for oncoming vehicles, may have snow in spring). At mile 3.5, narrow switchbacks begin, which have rocks sticking up on the sides. Continue to look for oncoming rigs. At mile 4.5, another challenging shelf road runs along a rock slide area full of loose shale (extreme caution in spring with snow). At mile 4.75, the tightest switchback requires multiple-point turns (trailers are not recommended). From here, it's all loose rocks, and low gear is highly recommended to control speed. Note that coming back down can be more challenging. Controlling speed on rocks, trouble seeing the trail, shelf, and ledge cliffs on the driver's side, all add to the fun and challenge. 4x4 and high clearance, as well as airing down, are a must. Also, check the weather, as rain and especially thunderstorms can add a great deal of difficulty and danger.
History
The Laurel Lake Trail follows a historic late 19th-century mining road constructed during the local mining boom that began around 1878. Originally built to transport miners and haul silver and gold ore for companies like the Mammoth Mining Company, this steep route served as a vital connection to the mineral-rich high-altitude slopes of the Sierra Nevada.
Access Description
Located within the Inyo National Forest, this route has no vehicle permit requirements, but drivers should check for seasonal closures due to heavy snow, which typically blocks the upper trail until mid-to-late summer. Low-pressure tires, high-clearance 4x4 capability, and extreme caution around tight shelf-road sections are required.
