01
Best overall pick
Cottonwood Lakes Trail
Horseshoe Meadow, Southwest Of Lone Pine • High-Elevation Alpine Basin Hike • Classic Eastern Sierra Experience
A rewarding climb from forested trailhead to a chain of turquoise lakes backed by rugged peaks in the Golden Trout Wilderness.
From Horseshoe Meadow, the trail eases you into thin air before committing to steady switchbacks and broad meadows framed by granite walls. The payoff is a string of high-country lakes where you can wander between shorelines, fish, or simply take in the skyline of Mount Langley. Plan for an early start, afternoon thunderstorms in summer, and a slow pace if you’re not used to the elevation.
02
Best sunrise and photo spot
Mobius Arch Loop Trail
Alabama Hills Near Lone Pine • Short Desert Loop Through Granite Arches • Iconic Views With Minimal Effort
A gentle loop through the Alabama Hills’ rounded boulders, with Mobius Arch perfectly framing the high Sierra crest.
This compact loop packs in a lot: sculpted rock formations, big-sky desert light, and that classic postcard view of Mount Whitney through Mobius Arch. The path is mostly sandy and easy to follow, making it suitable for almost any hiker, including families. Go at sunrise or sunset for softer light, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds on the main arch viewpoint.
03
Best moderate summit-feel hike
Lone Pine Lake via Mount Whitney Trail
Whitney Portal Above Lone Pine • Forest And Granite Canyon Climb To Alpine Lake • Whitney Sampler Without The Summit Push
A stout but manageable climb along the Mount Whitney Trail to a cliff-ringed lake that feels deep in the high country.
Starting from the busy Whitney Portal, the trail wastes little time gaining altitude, weaving through shaded forest and past tumbling creeks. Lone Pine Lake sits on a bench with airy views back down the valley, giving you a real taste of the Whitney zone without committing to a full summit mission. Check current permit requirements and snow conditions, especially in early season, and expect a mix of day hikers and backpackers on the lower trail.
04
Big adventure for strong hikers
Cartago Peak and Muah Mountain Route
Sierra Crest West Of Cartago • Remote Cross-Country Ridge And Summit Route • Challenging Option For Experienced Parties
An ambitious outing linking Muah Mountain and Cartago Peak for sweeping views over Owens Lake and the southern Owens Valley.
Accessed from the high trailheads south of Lone Pine, this route mixes established trail with sandy, off-trail climbs and airy ridge wandering. The reward is a series of quiet summits looking straight down on Cartago, the Owens Lake bed, and the desert ranges beyond. Navigation chops, comfort on loose footing, and solid fitness are essential, and it’s wise to carry extra water and start before dawn on warm days.
05
Best close-to-town stroll
Owens Lake Trails – Plaza Loop
Owens Lake Shoreline Just North Of Cartago • Flat Interpretive Lake-And-Salt-Flat Walk • Easy Leg-Stretcher With Birding And Views
A mellow, mostly level path along the edge of Owens Lake’s restored wetlands and salt flats with big views back to the Sierra wall.
This is the go-to option when you want fresh air without a big climb or long drive from Cartago. The walking is straightforward on graded paths and levees, with interpretive signs explaining the lake’s history, dust-control projects, and birdlife. Bring binoculars during migration seasons, when shallow ponds and mudflats can be crowded with shorebirds and waterfowl against a snowy Sierra backdrop.