River Trail

Explore the headwaters of the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River by following the River Trail to Thousand Island Lake. Starting from Agnew Meadows, shuttle bus stop #1, the River Trail and Shadow Creek Trail are combined for the first 3 miles, where the Shadow Creek trail splits off to go past Shadow Lake. The River Trail stays in the valley to follow the San Joaquin River to its headwaters. Before Thousand Island Lake several trail junctions give the option to join the Pacific Crest and John Muir Trails. The Garnet River Trail Connector is not recommended for stock. There is no bridge at the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River crossing.

Water crossings may be high during spring snow melt. This is an active bear area so you must secure your food and refuse in bear resistant food storage containers. Be bear aware!

Common Destinations: Thousand Island Lake loop

Download area map for trail names.
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org

Specific Trail Information

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Road closed in winter.

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 permits are required year round for overnight trips. A permit for the River Trail must travel on the River Trail. The High Trail and Shadow Creek Trail have separate permit quotas.
Day use does not require a permit.
May 1 through November 1 quota limits visitors to 30 people per day

Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.

No campfires at Thousand Island, Garnet, Ruby, Emerald, Badger or Clark Lakes. No campfires all locations above 10,000 ft. Campfire Restriction Maps
No Camping within 1/4 mile of the outflow of Garnet or Thousand Island Lake.
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
Yosemite wilderness regulations apply if entering the National Park.

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 #1 is Agnew Meadows.