Easy hikes and walks around Crowley Lake
4.6
(20)
293
hikers
4
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Crowley Lake California traverse a landscape shaped by volcanic activity and glacial forces, featuring unique geological formations and dramatic mountain vistas. The region is characterized by high desert terrain transitioning to alpine environments, with prominent features like the Crowley Lake Stone Columns and the backdrop of the Eastern Sierra mountains. Hikers can explore diverse natural features, including glacial lakes and areas showcasing the region's volcanic history.
Best easy hiking trails around Crowley Lake
- The most popular easy hiking route is Convict Lake Loop, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) trail that takes about 52 minutes to complete. This path offers views of Convict Lake and the surrounding Sierra Nevada peaks.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Crowley Lake Columns, an easy 2.3 miles (3.7 km) path. This route leads to unique geological formations, providing views of the lake and mountains.
- Local hikers also love the McGee Creek Trail, a 1.8 miles (2.9 km) trail leading through a scenic creek area, often completed in about 56 minutes.
- Hiking around Crowley Lake is defined by volcanic formations, glacial lakes, and the rugged Eastern Sierra mountains. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Crowley Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 280 hikers have used komoot to explore Crowley Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 2, 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.
1
hikers
889m
00:13
0m
0m
Hike the easy 0.6-mile Wild Willy's Hot Springs Trail to natural, geothermally heated pools with panoramic Sierra Nevada views.
Sign up for free
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.
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.
1
hikers
7.56km
02:00
70m
70m
Hike the easy 4.7-mile Hot Springs trail in Long Valley Caldera to discover natural thermal pools like Wild Willy's and Hilltop Hot Spring.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
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.
0
0
One of the best known set of hot spring pools in the Mammoth area. Luckily it attracts most of the people, leaving the other lesser known springs to be quieter. But even this site calms down during the week and outside the holiday seasons
1
0
Be aware, the popular Convict Lake Trail the loops around the lake is closed to bicycles.
0
0
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.
4
1
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.
0
0
A short trail with some raised sections and a brief boardwalk leads to a amazingly maintained hot pool big enough for 4 to six people, with a pipe from the hot springs just steps away that can be used to add hot water or refill the tub after draining. Carry out all trash and camp at the trailhead parking, not at the spring.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Crowley Lake?
There are several easy hiking trails around Crowley Lake, offering diverse scenery for all skill levels. This guide specifically features five easy routes, including the popular Convict Lake Loop and the unique Crowley Lake Columns trail.
What unique natural features can I see on an easy hike near Crowley Lake?
The region is known for its distinctive geological formations. You can explore the towering Crowley Lake Stone Columns, which were formed by volcanic activity and erosion. The area also features various hot springs, such as those accessible via the Wild Willy's Hot Springs Trail, showcasing the region's volcanic past.
Are there any easy loop hikes around Crowley Lake?
Yes, the Convict Lake Loop is an excellent easy circular trail. It's a 4.0 km (2.5 miles) path that offers stunning views of Convict Lake and the surrounding Sierra Nevada peaks, typically taking about 52 minutes to complete.
What are the best easy hikes for families with children?
For families, the Convict Lake Loop is a great choice due to its manageable distance and scenic views. Another option is the Wild Willy's Hot Springs Trail, which is very short (under 1 km) and leads to interesting geothermal features, making it engaging for younger hikers.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Many trails in the Eastern Sierra, including those around Crowley Lake, are dog-friendly. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash, but be mindful of wildlife and other hikers.
What is the best time of year to go on an easy hike in this area?
The best time for easy hikes around Crowley Lake is typically from late spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and trails are clear of snow. Summer offers warm, sunny conditions, while fall brings beautiful colors to the landscape, especially around areas like Hilton Lakes.
Are there any hot springs accessible via easy trails?
Yes, you can access natural hot springs on an easy hike. The Wild Willy's Hot Springs Trail is a short, easy path that leads directly to the popular Wild Willy's Hot Springs. Another option is the slightly longer Hot Springs trail, which also provides access to geothermal features.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails around Crowley Lake?
The easy trails around Crowley Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning mountain vistas, the unique geological formations like the Stone Columns, and the accessibility of the trails for various fitness levels.
Where can I find parking for easy hikes near Crowley Lake?
Most popular trailheads, such as those for the Convict Lake Loop and the Crowley Lake Columns, offer designated parking areas. For the Crowley Lake Columns, while the main access is over hard-packed roads, a high-clearance 4WD vehicle might be beneficial for reaching closer parking spots due to a steep, rutted section.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in the Crowley Lake area?
The terrain around Crowley Lake varies from high desert to alpine, shaped by volcanic and glacial activity. Easy hikes typically feature well-defined paths, often over hard-packed dirt or gravel. You can expect open areas with little shade, especially on trails leading to the Stone Columns, so prepare for sun exposure.
Are there any short, easy hikes suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The Wild Willy's Hot Springs Trail is less than 1 km (0.6 miles) and very flat, making it ideal for beginners. The McGee Creek Trail is also a good option, at 2.9 km (1.8 miles) and relatively easy, leading through a scenic creek area.
What are some notable points of interest or attractions near the easy hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can visit Convict Lake, known for its stunning mountain backdrop. The area also features several hot springs, including Wild Willy's Hot Springs and HillTop Hot Spring, which are popular for soaking. The dramatic Eastern Sierra mountains provide a constant scenic backdrop to all activities.
Most popular routes around Crowley Lake
Most popular attractions around Crowley Lake
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
