Crystal Lake Trailhead

The trail going up is very steep, with lots of switchbacks. But it's also shaded with trees. Views from the trail are absolutely amazing. The lake itself is beautiful, but even now in July the water was cold. Didn't stop us from jumping in though! Go on the right side of the lake, it gets less crowded and you'll be better able to enjoy yourself without people screaming and being obnoxious.

This is an amazing gem away from crowds! It’s 10,000 above sea level so the hike around the lake is quite a workout! The trails are well-marked. It’s rocky so a good pair of hiking boots will really help. We hiked around Lake Mary. The views of Lake Mary are unmatched! The water lives up to its name. It was crystal clear! We were able to get right in the water although we didn’t swim as it was 35 degrees outside! There were lots of wildlife on the trails. I saw chipmunks and several species of birds! The people fishing around the lake were so incredibly pleasant. Every person I ran into said an enthusiastic, “Good morning!” to us. This is hands down my favorite place to hike in California thus far and I will be returning very very soon!

An amazing hike. Gorgeous day to do a 3+mile hike. As some other people say in their comments. The first 1.2 miles is a steady climb. Nothing killer. The altitude does get you a bit, but absolutely worth the hike at the end as you reach the fantastic lake views.

What a nice hike. Perfect weather early September. I really enjoyed it.

The trail was pretty easy. Some spots was steep but overall anyone could do it. Great views of all the lakes in the area.

Just spectacular! Well worth the effort! If ur adventurous go all they way around the lake. Going to the right is a little steap but awesome. Be careful. After you get done exploring the lake head back on the trail that u came on and when you come to the Mammoth Crest fork trail, just do it! Best views of well everything. Your at the top of the mountains. Just breathtaking and I'm talking about the views but yes, you probably will be out of breath. 8miles to do both trails and back to the trailhead. Enjoy!

Amazing it’s about a 2hr hike up to the lake so beautiful it’s mildly difficult mainly because of the high Altitude but coming back down was so easy about 1.5 hr so worth it. We took our 4 year old he did good he was tired so it might me a little too much for kids

Awesome trails and an absolutely magnificent Park highly recommended you make the trip to Mammoth Lakes area

We stayed at the June Lake campsite. what could I say this place is beautiful. Lots of trails, Camp sites and restrooms are clean. On site workers are real nice and helpful. We definitely checked this lake off our bucket list but will definitely be back. Fyi...the deer and doe walk a few feet from you. I would of posted pictures of them but there in my real camera.

This hike is incredible, can be a little challenging though because majority of the hike is uphill but the end is worth it. I would recommend packing a sandwich and have lunch by the lake. Just make sure you take your trash with you.

The trail is moderate difficulty (high altitude), but well traveled and has spectacular views. Parking at the trailhead can be crowded, so best to arrive early. Overall, great experience and highly recommend

Beautiful hike up to the most amazing lake. Bring lots of water and some snacks! Keep on the trail, don't try to improvise.

One of the easiest trailhead hikes to Crystal Lake only takes about an hour and a half amazing views couldn't ask for anything more in the Sierras. Perfect for Children and Families definitely novice

Loved the entire Mammoth Lakes area. Brisk cold evenings with sunshine during the day. It felt closer to winter than Fall.

An absolutely beautiful place to walk. We took the trail around the left-side of the lake and the Mountain View’s are awesome!

Fun scenic travel up a steep mountain with killer views. I would recommend it age 8 and up. Pack a lunch and enjoy by Crystal lake

Beautiful spot. We were there during the winter and all the summer activities were, of course, closed. Nonetheless, it was a beautiful view good for a quick stroll and pictures. The reflection and colors are unreal.

The hike is hard since you are going up the whole entire hike. You need about 2-3 hrs each way if you are slow hiker. Come prepared. Worth every minute. One of the most beautiful hikes I've been. Definitely worth doing if you are in mammoth. Great views.

This is a real crystal. Amazing.
You must visit here during winter.

Gorgeous, moderate hike. Lots of switchbacks for the first mile. But beautiful scenery along the way.