Explore One of California’s Most Beautiful, Clean Lakes at Inyo National Forest

Some hikes are so stunning that words can’t capture their beauty, and the Shadow and Ediza Lakes Trail is one of them. Nestled beneath towering granite spires in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, this 14.9-mile out-and-back hike showcases the grandeur of the Sierra Nevadas. Despite its popularity, the immense scale of the scenery will make you feel miles away from civilization. Just make sure you’ve got the right gear. Like most high-altitude gems, this ascent is a calf-burner that's guaranteed to test your mettle. 

The Shadow and Ediza Lakes Trail has earned a reputation for being a fantastic introduction to more strenuous mountain schleps. You’ll find it in the Inyo National Forest, home to wizened bristlecone pines including “Methuselah,” the world's oldest tree. The nearest town is quaint Mammoth Lakes. There, you’ll find a handful of lodges and campsites to make berth, along with various shops to gear up for your excursion. I recommend packing sunscreen, plenty of water, and the requisite snacks to keep you going.

You'll begin your alpine climb in the tranquil understory of Agnew Meadows. It won't take long before the canopy thins, revealing expansive views of the mountainside. Hikers will first arrive at Shadow Lake, where the crystal clear waters invite an al fresco dip. Remember, even in peak summer, these snow-fed lakes are frigid, so prepare to be refreshed but also, more than likely, entirely numb.

From here, the trail crisscrosses beneath sentinels of towering pine and across narrow streams. Heave up the rocky terrain until you reach Ediza, the route's crown jewel and your reward for several hours of effortful hiking. This postcard of Sierra Nevadan beauty is one of the range's most magnificent lakes, and many outdoor enthusiasts opt to stay overnight. Though I've never committed to a sleepover myself, it's hard to imagine waking up to a more breathtaking view.

If you're looking for a gorgeous lake hike in the Ansel Adams Wilderness area, I recommend an excursion to the Shadow and Ediza Lakes Trail. We might've officially bid summer adieu, but this route only grows more beautiful with autumnal reds and golds speckling the sheer slopes.

Plan your visit to this alpine lake before the end of October, and share some of your favorite Northern Californian hikes with other nature lovers!