McLeod Lake Trail

Being a popular route, the Mcleod Lake Trail can become rather crowded at certain times of the year. As such, those seeking a more secluded hiking experience may want to consider doing the route earlier in the morning to avoid the midday crowds or even skip the hike altogether in favor of a less frequented route within Inyo National Forest.

Having parked your vehicle, locate the trailhead at the southern section of the parking lot. Follow the pathway as it makes its way west, where you will then arrive at a junction within the trail. At the junction, follow the southern pathway over steadily inclining terrain until you reach a second junction within the trail.

At the second junction, take Mammoth Pass Cutoff Trail and follow it as it circumnavigates McLeod Lake. The trail will eventually bring you back to the previously mentioned second junction. Once there, backtrack your steps towards the trailhead and your waiting vehicle.