Hiking 16 Miles Alone in the Sierra Nevada 

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#hiking #easternsierra #trekking #backpacking #usa #inyonationalforest #johnmuirwilderness #mammothcrestloop #duckpasstrail
The Mammoth Crest Loop, starting at Cold Water Campground in Mammoth Lakes, offers a stunning counter-clockwise hike that showcases some of the Sierra Nevada’s most stinning alpine beauty and panoramic mountain views. Beginning from the campground, the trail immediately climbs through dense pine forest, offering cool shade and tranquil surroundings. The ascent is steady when leaving Lake George toward the Mammoth Crest.
After a few miles, the trail opens up to breathtaking, expansive views from the “Crest” itself. Standing at this vantage point, I saw the dramatic Sierra Nevada range, including the Ritter Range, Banner Peak, and the sprawling John Muir Wilderness. The high-altitude vistas made the uphill trek well worth the effort.
From the crest, the trail began to descend toward pristine alpine lakes, known as the Deer Lakes. I made my way from the Deer Lakes over a scree pass to Dick Lake, quickly rejoining the Duck Pass Trail and dropping down to Barney Lake. I made camp at Barney Lake ans enjoyed the beautiful evening and night under the stars in the backcountry.
The next morning I packed up and travered doen the duck pass trail, passed Skelton Lake and Arrowhead Lake, both of which make perfect spots for a break or a refreshing dip. The terrain became gentler as I continues down the trail, winding through meadows and scattered patches of wildflowers.
The final leg of the trail lead me through peaceful forested areas, eventually returning to Cold Water Campground, completing the loop. At around 16 miles with 3,300 feet of elevation gain, the hiking loop provided an awesome overnight adventure in to the backcountry with stunning alpine scenery.
Title: Hiking 16 Miles Alone in the Sierra Nevada