Fern Lake Trail
The Fern Lake trail follows Snow Canyon toward King's Creek and Summit Meadow on the way to Fern and Anona Lakes. Starting from Shuttle stop #6 in front of the Devils Postpile Visitor Center, it is less than a mile to the junction with a bridge across the river, where you leave the John Muir Trail. Trips going to Beck Lake or Minaret Falls have different trail designations and quotas. Fern Lake trail does not include trips that will continue on the John Muir Trail.
Common Destinations: Fern Lake, Anona Lake, loop to Beck Lake trail or go west via Summit Meadow and Granite Stairway into Sierra National Forest to Bench Canyon or Isberg Pass.
Download area map for trail names.
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org
Specific Trail Information
Trail Type
General Information
All visitors to the Reds Meadow Valley pay a per-person transportation fee which allows use of the mandatory shuttle bus. Call Mammoth Lakes Welcome Center for more shuttle information. (760)924-5500.
- Wilderness permit required year round for overnight trips.
- Day use does not require a permit.
- May 1 through November 1 overnight visitors are limited to 10 people per day.
- This permit does not continue on the John Muir or Pacific Crest trails.
Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
- No campfires at Fern Lake, Anona, Ashley, Holcomb or Beck Lakes; and no campfires at all locations above 10,000 ft.
- Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear proof containers.
- Groups cannot be larger than 15 people (includes day use).
- Ansel Adams Wilderness regulations.
Getting There
Directions
Leave Hwy 395 at Hwy 203 to the town of Mammoth Lakes. Turn right on Minaret Road and go to Mammoth Mountain Adventure Center (Main Lodge) for long term parking and to board the mandatory shuttle to the trailhead. Shuttle stop #6 is Devils Postpile Visitor Center.
