Snowshoeing to the Inyo Craters is a perfect family-friendly introduction to this ancient means of winter travel and to the volcanic history of the area. Starting from the Inyo Craters staging area just off the Mammoth Scenic Loop, follow signs and orange diamonds through the old-growth Jeffrey pine forest to the craters trailhead. The trail is groomed and easy and best used midweek when snowmobile traffic is at a minimum. To look down into the craters, and to enjoy the sweeping views of the Long Valley Caldera, make the short climb to the rim—but don't try to go down into the craters! Return the way you came.