From the trailhead off Sherwin Creek Road, the Sherwin Lakes Trail climbs steeply for about 2 miles to a glaciated bench and Sherwin Lakes, a pair of small sub-alpine lakes at 8,269 feet at the edge of the John Muir Wilderness. Much of the climb is without shade and can be very hot and dusty in the heat of the day, especially in mid- to late summer, making the cold water in the lakes a much-anticipated destination. Along the way, there are extraordinary views across the Long Valley Caldera and back over the town of Mammoth Lakes toward Mammoth Mountain. Continue from Sherwin Lakes on to Valentine Lake or return the way you came.