Starkweather Trail 2.5 mi

From its trailhead next to the ranger kiosk at Minaret Summit, the Starkweather Trail provides a classic and spectacular descent into the San Joaquin Valley, with steep switchbacks through dense, old-growth forest where mining pioneer J.W. Starkweather once had a cabin. A great hike for families with children, there is a burbling perennial stream, meadows along the way, and big views across the valley to the Minarets and the Ritter Range. The trail ends across Minaret Road from Starkweather Lake, where, in summer, the Reds Meadow shuttle makes a stop in either direction.
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From its trailhead next to the ranger kiosk at Minaret Summit, the Starkweather Trail provides a classic and spectacular descent into the San Joaquin Valley, with steep switchbacks through dense, old-growth forest where mining pioneer J.W. Starkweather once had a cabin. A great hike for families with children, there is a burbling perennial stream, meadows along the way, and big views across the valley to the Minarets and the Ritter Range. The trail ends across Minaret Road from Starkweather Lake, where, in summer, the Reds Meadow shuttle makes a stop in either direction.

Trail Activities
Public Services
Trail Information
- Soil
- A standard ramp is 8%. Conditions subject to change.
This trail can be accessed at the Minaret Summit Ranger Station or for a fee via the Reds Meadow Shuttle Service at Mammoth Mountain Ski Area Main Lodge Shuttle Stop #2 during the months of May, June, July, August, and the beginning of September. After Shuttle Service stops for the season, you may drive down to Reds Meadow for a fee and access the trailhead at the Starkweather Lake Trailhead.
*Note that not all facilities are accessible via public transit.

Reviews

Destination	Activities and Services
Mammoth Mountain Ski Area Main Lodge
Minaret Vista
Starkweather Lake

2.5 mi

4.1 mi

3.0 mi

5.0 mi

0.2 mi

0.2 mi

Experience	Rating	Length (mi)	Surface	Duration
Hiking from Minaret Vista to Starkweather Lake	◉	2.5	Soil	Less than 4 hours
Hiking the Sierra Crest from Minaret Vista to Deadman Pass	▣	4.1	Soil	Less than 4 hours
Hiking to Minaret Vista - Adaptive Option	▣	3.0	Soil	Less than 4 hours
Mountain Biking the San Joaquin Ridge	◈	5.0	Soil	Less than 4 hours
Photography at Minaret Vista	◉	0.2	Soil	Less than 4 hours
Vista Viewing from the Minaret Vista	◉	0.2	Mixed	Less than 4 hours