During Mammoth's brief gold rush, in the late 1870s and early 1880s, the Mammoth Pass Trail represented the shortest, gentlest route to civilization. It was 54 miles to Oakhurst (then Fresno Flats) and cost travelers $15 to use, excluding freight costs. Today the trail is free. Climbing gently from Horseshoe Lake to a low, forested saddle just above popular McLeod Lake, the trail then enters the Ansel Adams Wilderness for approximately 2 miles before crossing back over the wilderness boundary and dropping into Reds Meadow Valley.
Mammoth Pass Trail 4.1 mi
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This trail is within a congressionally designated wilderness area. Please abide by all rules and regulations.
Trail Activities
Public Services
Trail Information
- Soil
- A standard ramp is 8%. Conditions subject to change.
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This trail is accessed directly from the Horseshoe Lake Trailhead.
*Note that not all facilities are accessible via public transit.
Related Destinations
Horseshoe Lake Picnic Area
- Hours/Season: Day use only | Fall Spring Summer
Horseshoe Lake Trailhead
- Hours/Season: Day use only | Fall Spring Summer
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Related Destinations
| Destination | Activities and Services |
|---|---|
| Horseshoe Lake Picnic Area |
|
| Horseshoe Lake Trailhead |
|
Related Experiences
Guided Geology Tour at Horseshoe Lake
1.4 mi
- Rating: ,
- Surface: Mixed,
- Duration: Less than 4 hours
Vista Viewing from the Dragon's Back Trail
6.3 mi
- Rating: ,
- Surface: Soil,
- Duration: Half day
Related Experiences
| Experience | Rating | Length (mi) | Surface | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Geology Tour at Horseshoe Lake | 1.4 | Mixed | Less than 4 hours | |
| Vista Viewing from the Dragon's Back Trail | 6.3 | Soil | Half day |
