Convict Lake
A high mountain lake ringed by reddish-brown rock peaks; a single loop trail around the shore takes in one of the finest lake views in the eastern Sierra.
Convict Lake lies about 15 km southeast of the town of Mammoth Lakes. It takes its name from an 1871 incident in which escaped convicts exchanged gunfire with their pursuers here. The lake is surrounded by the striped rock walls of Laurel Mountain and Mount Morrison. Its water is emerald green, and in autumn the aspens along the shore turn gold, making it one of the most photogenic lakes in the eastern Sierra. The loop trail around the lake is about 4 km with almost no climb, suitable for families. There is a dock where boats can be rented, trout fishing is popular, and there are cabins and restaurants. The turnoff from Highway 395 is followed by about 3 km of road to the lake.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- McGee Creek Canyon
- Hot Creek Geological Site
- Mammoth Museum at Hayden Cabin
- Wild Willy's Hot Spring
- Duck Pass Trail
- Mammoth Consolidated Mine
- Crowley Lake Stone Columns
- The Village at Mammoth