McGee Pass Trail


Area Status: Open
Wildflowers along McGee Creek Trail

Abundant wildflowers mixed with sage fill the lower part of McGee Canyon on the way to Horsetail Falls. Water crossings may be high during spring snow melt. Expect to get your feet wet and use caution with high spring runoff . As the canyon turns west and climbs into aspen and lodgepole pine, side trails lead to Steelhead Lake and Baldwin Canyon. Farther up the canyon are Big McGee and Little McGee Lakes. Crossing over McGee Pass leads to Horse Heaven and Tully Hole on the John Muir Trail.

Common Destinations: Big and Little McGee Lakes, McGee Pass, Upper Fish Creek, John Muir Trail

Download area map for trail location, note there are several diffrent McGee Creeks in the Sierra.
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org

At a Glance

Rentals & Guides:  McGee Creek Pack Station is located near this trailhead offering day rides and mule pack trips (760) 878-2207
Permit Info:
  • Wilderness permits are required year round for overnight trips
  • Day use does not require a permit.
  • May 1 through November 1 quota limits visitors to 15 people per day.
Busiest Season: July-August
Restrictions:
Closest Towns:
  • Crowley Lake, CA (gas, food)
  • Mammoth Lakes, CA (full service, hospital)
  • Bishop, CA (full service, hospital)
Water: Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
Restroom: Vault toilet at trailhead. Please Leave No Trace. Bury human waste away from water sources.
Operated By: Forest Service
Information Center: White Mountain Visitor Center (760) 873-2500 Wilderness Permit Information (760) 873-2483

General Information

Directions:

Leave Hwy 395 at the north end of Lake Crowley. Turn onto McGee Creek Road and drive until the road ends. The last mile is dirt. Paved parking, pit toilet and picnic tables near the aspen shaded creek.


Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Fishing in Big Mcgee, Little McGee and Steelhead Lakes have Rainbow and Brook Trout.

River and Stream Fishing

Try your luck for Rainbow and Brook Trout in McGee Creek.

Day Hiking

Backpacking

General Info:

Safety Information

Bear lockers are not available at this trailhead. All hikers must safely store all food and scented items left in the vehicles. It is recommended to secure your food in the trunk of your vehicle and cover your ice chests.


Seasonal Information

Depending upon the weather, this trail is normally clear of snow by early June.   


Horse Riding

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
37.550973

  Longitude : 
-118.80252

  Elevation : 
8,131ft. at trailhead - 11,900 ft. at McGee Pass