Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes Trail

As Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes Trail is a popular route within Inyo National Forest, parking can be hard to find. We suggest arriving earlier in the morning in order to find parking, but to also avoid the larger crowds sometimes found throughout the trail midday. Those who are seeking a more secluded hiking experience may want to skip Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes Trail in favor of a less frequented route within Inyo National Forest.

From the trailhead, follow Little Lakes Valley Trail south over steadily inclining terrain. After crossing a number of streams, the path will arrive at Mack Lake, where it will then continue southward. The Little Lakes Valley Trail will plateau both before and after Marsh Lake, and will then cross two more streams as it makes its way towards Heart Lake.

After passing alongside Heart Lake, the pathway will bring you adjacent to Box Lake, and through a scenic meadow section, before arriving at Long Lake. From here, the elevation begins to incline at a greater rate as the route brings to you Chickenfoot, and eventually Gem Lake. After arriving at Gem Lake, take this opportunity to rest and enjoy the scenery before backtracking your steps towards the trailhead.