The best walks and hikes around Mcgee Creek
4.7
(21)
309
hikers
18
hikes
Hikes around McGee Creek explore a classic Eastern Sierra canyon located within the John Muir Wilderness. The landscape begins in a high-desert environment characterized by sagebrush, then follows the creek into aspen groves known for their fall colors. As the trails gain elevation, they enter a rugged alpine setting with views of surrounding peaks, clear ponds, and meadows noted for spring and summer wildflowers.
Best hiking trails around Mcgee Creek
- The most popular hiking route is Big McGee Lake — Inyo National Forest, a 13.7 mile (22.0 km) trail that takes about 6 hours 47 minutes to complete. This difficult route ascends through the canyon to a large alpine lake.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Convict Lake loop — Mammoth Lakes, an easy 2.5 mile (4.0 km) path. The trail offers a relatively flat walk around the shoreline of the lake.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Lake Dorothy — Mammoth Lakes, a 12.5 mile (20.1 km) trail leading through the Inyo National Forest, often completed in about 5 hours 15 minutes.
- Hiking around Mcgee Creek is defined by high-desert canyons, aspen-lined creeks, and alpine lakes. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from short lakeside walks to challenging high-elevation hikes.
- The routes in Mcgee Creek are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 350 hikers have used komoot to explore Mcgee Creek's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
12
hikers
3.67km
01:01
50m
80m
Explore the otherworldly Crowley Lake Columns on this easy 2.3-mile hike in Inyo National Forest, featuring unique geological formations.
6
hikers
11.1km
03:38
810m
0m
Hike to Big McGee Lake, a moderate 6.9-mile trail in Inyo National Forest with 2671 feet of elevation gain and stunning alpine views.
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2.90km
00:56
220m
0m
Hike the easy 1.8-mile McGee Creek Trail in Inyo National Forest, gaining 711 feet in 55 minutes, offering diverse scenery.
10.4km
03:42
890m
120m
Hike the moderate 6.5-mile Convict Creek Trail, gaining 2905 feet, to explore unique geology and alpine lakes in John Muir Wilderness.
4.5
(15)
215
hikers
4.01km
00:52
60m
60m
Hike the easy 2.5-mile Convict Lake Loop in Inyo National Forest, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding Sierra Nevada peaks.
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Popular around Mcgee Creek
Tips from the Community
Big McGee Lake is a fascinating lake in Inyo National Forest. From the lake you can see Red and White Mountain with different colors and rock formations contrasting with the turquoise color of the lake. The hike to the lake will offer stunning views; it follows McGee Creek, going between aspens, pines and small lakes. This can be a long day hike that must be planned, or it can be done as a multi-day backpacking trip. Trekking poles and wearing good hiking boots can be very helpful.
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Convict Lake is a glacial lake and is surrounded by majestic mountains. The picturesque lake, however, has a very sad history. It gets its name from an incident that happened in 1871, when 29 convicts escaped from Carson City Jail and found a place to hide near the lake. After killing a mail carrier who had found them by chance at Convict Lake, they were followed by military officers and there was a bloody shoot-out. The surviving prisoners were found soon after and lynched.
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Dorothy Lake is located below the impressive walls of Red Slate Mountain. An outstanding place!
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Be aware, the popular Convict Lake Trail the loops around the lake is closed to bicycles.
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The picturesque alpine lake is the place of a dark story. It was named after an incident in 1871, when 29 convicts escaped from prison in Carson City and found a place to hide near the lake. They were followed by a local posse after killing a mail rider who accidentally found them at Convict lake and as soon as it caught up to the convicts, members of both sides were killed in a shootout. The convicts that survived the shootout were found and lynched later on. Today, Convict Lake is a great spot for fishing. You can find rainbow trout, German brown trout and species of sucker fish in the clear blue waters. It is also a fine hiking location. A 3-miles trail goes around the lake and another one connects it to the Sierra Crest.
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At the northwest corner of Convict Lake a trail begins to climb steadily into the backcountry, leading to Dorothy Lake, and a branch further northwest to Dicks Pass Trail and eventually to the Pacific Crest Trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see fall colors in McGee Creek?
The aspen groves in the lower canyon are famous for their spectacular fall colors. For the best display of yellow, orange, and red, plan your hike for late September to early October. The exact timing can vary each year depending on the weather.
When can I see wildflowers along the McGee Creek Trail?
Wildflower season typically runs from late spring through early summer. The lower canyon is often decorated with vibrant displays of Indian paintbrush, lupine, and mule ears during this period. Higher elevations and meadows near the alpine lakes will have blooms later into the summer.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, for a relatively flat and scenic walk, the Convict Lake loop — Mammoth Lakes is an excellent choice. It's a short trail that circles the lake, offering beautiful views without significant elevation gain.
What are the trail conditions like in McGee Creek?
Trails start in a high-desert environment and become more rugged as you ascend into the John Muir Wilderness. Expect well-defined but potentially rocky paths. The main trail involves several creek crossings which can be challenging during spring runoff when the water is high and fast.
Where can I park for the McGee Creek Trail?
There is a designated parking area at the McGee Creek Trailhead at the end of McGee Creek Road. This is a popular spot, especially during peak season for fall colors and on weekends, so it's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot.
Is it possible to go backpacking in McGee Creek?
Absolutely. McGee Creek is a popular backpacking destination, with many hikers camping near the alpine lakes. Big McGee Lake is a common overnight spot. Remember that you are entering the John Muir Wilderness, and a wilderness permit is required for overnight stays.
What kind of wildlife might I see? Are there bears?
The Eastern Sierra is home to a variety of wildlife. You might see deer, marmots, and many species of birds. Black bears are also present in the area. It is essential to store your food properly using bear-resistant containers and to be aware of your surroundings.
What's a good option for a long, challenging day hike?
For a strenuous but rewarding hike, consider the trail to Lake Dorothy — Mammoth Lakes. This route covers about 12.5 miles (20.1 km) and involves significant elevation gain, taking you deep into the scenic high country of the Inyo National Forest.
Are there other recreational activities available in the area?
Yes, besides hiking, McGee Creek is a well-regarded area for fishing, particularly for trout in the creek and alpine lakes. Horseback riding is also popular, with pack stations offering guided trips into the canyon. The scenery also makes it a fantastic spot for photography.
What do other hikers say about the trails around McGee Creek?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning alpine scenery, the vibrant fall colors in the aspen groves, and the beautiful displays of wildflowers in the spring and summer. The evolving landscape from the lower canyon to the high lakes is a common highlight.
How many hiking trails are there around McGee Creek?
You can explore over a dozen curated routes around McGee Creek on komoot. These range from easy lakeside strolls to difficult, high-elevation treks into the John Muir Wilderness, offering options for various fitness levels and time commitments.
Are there any hot springs nearby?
Yes, the Eastern Sierra is known for its natural hot springs. The Hot Springs — Mammoth Lakes District tour explores some of these geothermal pools, which can be a great way to relax after a long hike.
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