01
Best overall pick
McGee Pass Trail
Mcgee Creek Canyon, South Of Aspen Springs • High-Alpine Canyon Climb • Local Favorite For Wildflower Season
A steady climb up McGee Creek into a wide, colorful canyon with big Sierra backdrops.
Starting from the McGee Creek trailhead just off Highway 395, this route wastes no time leaving the highway behind for big views up-canyon. In early summer the meadows burst with wildflowers, while fall brings deep reds and golds on the hillsides. The grade is consistent and exposed, so locals treat it as an early-morning outing with plenty of water and sun protection.
02
Most unusual scenery
Crowley Lake Columns Hike
South Shore Of Crowley Lake • Lakeshore Walk To Volcanic Formations • Best Short Hike With A Unique Payoff
A short, sandy shoreline wander to towering stone columns carved into the lakeshore cliffs.
This casual shoreline hike delivers one of the strangest sights near Aspen Springs: tall, fluted columns carved into pale volcanic rock along the water’s edge. When lake levels are favorable, you can walk right up beneath the formations and explore the alcoves and arches they create. Expect soft sand and some rock-hopping, and check conditions locally since access depends on road and water levels.
03
Classic day hike
Hilton Lakes Trail
Rock Creek Canyon Near Tom's Place • Forest-And-Meadow High-Country Route • Ideal For An All-Day Escape
A rolling trail that leads past meadows and forest toward a string of quiet alpine lakes.
A short drive from Aspen Springs up Rock Creek Road, the Hilton Lakes trail climbs steadily through pine forest before opening into broad meadows and long views back down the canyon. Several lakes lie along the upper reaches of the route, so you can tailor the day to your energy and the weather. Anglers, photographers, and backpack-curious day hikers all treat this as a reliable high-country escape once the snow melts out.
04
Best easy loop
Convict Lake Loop Trail
Convict Lake, North Of Aspen Springs • Scenic Lakeside Loop • Great Introductory Hike At Altitude
A gentle path circling a deep, blue lake framed by steep cliffs and classic Sierra peaks.
The loop around Convict Lake is an easy choice when you want big scenery without committing to a long climb. The well-defined trail mixes packed dirt, boardwalk, and a few rockier stretches as it threads through willows and along the shoreline. Locals like it for evening walks, family outings, and as a first-day acclimatization hike before heading higher into the backcountry.
05
Top high-elevation stroll
Little Lakes Valley Trail
Upper Rock Creek Above Tom's Place • Classic High-Elevation Basin Ramble • Go-To Pick For Easy Big-Mountain Views
An easy, gently graded path into a chain of sparkling lakes and granite ridges.
Starting high at Mosquito Flat, this trail offers quick access to true alpine terrain with minimal effort, which is why it’s a staple for Eastern Sierra regulars. The path rolls past a string of lakes backed by jagged granite peaks, with plenty of spots to stop for a snack or a cold-footed wade. The elevation is no joke, though, so visitors coming from sea level often take it slow and linger at the lower lakes.