01
Best big-mountain challenge
Boundary Peak via Queen Mine
North Of Benton Near The Nevada State Line • High-Elevation Summit Route On A Rugged Jeep Road And Use Trail • Bucket-List Challenge For Strong Hikers
A demanding climb to Nevada’s highest point, with sweeping views over the White Mountains and distant Sierra peaks.
From dirt roads near Queen Mine, this route gains serious elevation quickly, topping out above 13,000 feet on a rocky ridge that feels wild and remote. High-clearance vehicles make the approach more comfortable, but even then the final drive and hike are exposed to weather and wind. Start early, expect thin air, and save this one for when you’re acclimated and the forecast is stable.
02
Best desert and history combo
Fish Slough Petroglyphs Walk
South Of Benton Off Fish Slough Road • High-Desert Petroglyph And Wash Ramble • Best For History-Rich Wandering
An easy walk through volcanic outcrops and open desert with scattered panels of Native rock art and wide Owens Valley views.
Just south of Benton, the Fish Slough area offers informal paths and sandy two-tracks where you can stretch your legs while exploring basalt cliffs and petroglyph sites. The walking is mostly gentle, but the sun and lack of shade are no joke, so plan for cool hours and bring more water than you think you need. Drive slowly on the graded roads, park well off the main track, and tread lightly around cultural sites.
03
Best classic Eastern Sierra sampler
Little Lakes Valley from Mosquito Flat
Rock Creek Canyon, Southwest Of Benton • String Of Alpine Lakes On A Mellow Glacial Valley Trail • Best First High-Country Hike
A remarkably gentle high-altitude trail that threads past a chain of clear lakes, meadows, and granite peaks with huge payoff for the effort.
Accessed from the end of Rock Creek Road, this trail starts higher than many summits back east, yet the grade is moderate and forgiving. You can turn around at the first lake for a short outing or keep going deeper into the basin for a full-day wander among tarns, wildflowers, and big views. Afternoon storms, snow patches, and thin air are all common here, so carry layers and keep an eye on the sky.
04
Best easy scenic loop
Convict Lake Loop Trail
Near Mammoth Lakes Along Highway 395 • Alpine Lake Shoreline Path With Big Cliff Views • Easiest Big-Scenery Outing
A mostly level loop circling a striking blue lake beneath dramatic limestone and metamorphic cliffs.
The well-defined trail hugs the water’s edge, mixing packed dirt, boardwalks, and a bit of rocky footing on the far side of the lake. It’s an excellent pick when you want Eastern Sierra drama without a massive climb, and it works well for mixed-ability groups or late-afternoon leg stretches. In peak season, go early or near sunset for quieter shores and easier parking at the marina or day-use areas.
05
Best half-day adventure
Parker Lake Trail
June Lake Loop Off Highway 158 • Forest And Creek Trail To A Glacial Cirque Lake • Shoulder-Season Favorite For Strong Walkers
A moderate climb from sagebrush foothills into aspen-filled forest, ending at a deep-blue lake tucked beneath the high ridges of the Sierra crest.
The route starts dry and open, then gradually follows a lively creek into cooler trees, making it a good choice in spring and fall when higher passes can still hold snow. Expect a steady but reasonable grade, with a few rockier sections that reward you at the shore with reflections of snow-streaked peaks. Pack a snack or early dinner and linger by the outlet stream before heading back down to the June Lake Loop.