01
Closest desert loop
Keeler North Loop Trail
Foothills Just North Of Keeler • Rugged Desert Loop With Wide-Open Views • Quick Local Outing With Big-Sky Scenery
A rough-and-ready loop just above town that dishes up quiet desert walking and sweeping looks over Owens Lake and the Sierra wall.
Starting near Keeler, this loop climbs low desert slopes dotted with creosote and old mining relics before circling back toward the valley floor. The trail is lightly signed and can be rocky in places, so it suits hikers comfortable with a more primitive feel. Go early or in cooler seasons for the best light and to avoid the harsh midday heat.
02
History-meets-views pick
Cerro Gordo Peak Trail
Cerro Gordo Mining District Above Keeler • Steep Historic Road Hike To A High Summit • Best For Strong Hikers Who Like Mining History
A stout climb from the Cerro Gordo ghost town to a lofty summit overlooking Owens Valley and the high Sierra.
From the old mining camp of Cerro Gordo, a steep jeep road and use trails lead toward the summit ridge, where weathered structures and tailings sit against a backdrop of snow-streaked peaks. The elevation gain is significant, and the footing can be loose, so allow time and bring plenty of water. On a clear day the views reach from Mount Whitney across the Owens Valley to the White and Inyo ranges.
03
Best training loop
Haystack Hill Loop
Desert Hills East Of Owens Lake • Short, Steady Desert Hill Circuit • Good For Conditioning And Sunrise Hikes
A compact loop that winds up and around a low summit, ideal for getting your legs ready for bigger Sierra days.
This route circles and tops out on Haystack Hill, giving you a modest climb with rewarding views toward the Owens Lake basin and the Inyo Mountains. The tread is mostly on old tracks and single-use paths, exposed to sun and wind with little shade. It is a practical choice for locals looking for a repeatable workout or visitors wanting a low-commitment hike close to Keeler.
04
Most iconic views
Mobius Arch Loop Trail
Alabama Hills Near Lone Pine • Short Granite-Arch Loop Through Boulder Gardens • Best For Photographers And Casual Ramblers
A gentle loop that weaves through movie-famous boulders to Mobius Arch, perfectly framing Mount Whitney and the Sierra crest.
Just west of Lone Pine, this signed loop in the Alabama Hills offers an easy wander among rounded granite formations with almost no elevation gain. Mobius Arch is the highlight, but side paths lead to other natural arches and viewpoints, making it easy to linger. Go at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light on both the rocks and the distant high peaks.
05
Bucket-list sampler
Mount Whitney Trail to Lone Pine Lake
High Country Above Whitney Portal • Alpine Forest And Granite Canyon Trail • Best For A Full Half-Day Mountain Hike
The classic Mount Whitney Trail up to Lone Pine Lake gives you a real Sierra feel without committing to the summit push.
From Whitney Portal, the well-built trail climbs steadily through pine forest and past granite walls, with creek crossings and switchbacks that hint at the bigger climb beyond. Many hikers make Lone Pine Lake their turnaround point, enjoying clear water, polished slabs, and cool air far above the valley. Check seasonal access and permit rules before you go, as regulations change and going beyond the lake requires additional planning.